Lexus RX 350 F Sport

The new F SPORT is available only in all-wheel drive and features an eight-speed automatic transmission with razor-sharp responding paddle shifters, an F SPORT-tuned suspension to keep the exclusive 19X8 inch split five-spoke wheels in a Dark Graphic finish solidly planted on the ground.  In the front are an aggressive front bumper, HID headlamp clusters, and a deep mesh grille with the new signature chrome spindle design. Down below is a splitter and foglamps at the sides. Inside are a host of exclusive sporty cues making it even more fun to be piloting the new RX 350 F SPORT.

The new RX 350 F SPORT combines the standard 3.5 liter, DOHC, 24-valve, all-alloy V6 engine that generates 270hp at 6,200rpm and 248lb.ft. of torque at 4,700rpm.  Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) is used to control both intake and exhaust camshafts independently; optimizing engine performance at many speeds and loads.  I would have liked to see a significantly increase in horsepower to really make the F SPORT go faster off the line.  It only got to 60mph from a standstill in just under 7 seconds, which is about the same for the regular RX 350. 

The RX SPORT’s eight-speed automatic is only available in the new F SPORT and comes with fun-to-use paddle shifters.  It gave me quicker shifting response with help from miniature high-flow linear solenoids that allowed for more precise clutch operation.  The torque converter uses a low-speed lockup damper to enable lock-up from first to eighth gear to help fuel economy.

All of the torque is transferred to all four wheels with an electronically controlled Active Torque Control AWD system.  Active Torque Control AWD uses an electronically controlled coupling ahead of the rear differential to vary torque distribution anywhere from 100:0 to 50:50 front to rear, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions.  When accelerating, or at launch on a low-grip surface, torque is quickly provided to all four wheels.  At steady speeds, torque is sent to the front wheels, enhancing fuel efficiency. 

Adding to the more aggressive handling prowess are the meaty Dunlop 235/55VR19 inch Grand Trek Touring A/S performance tires.  The wrap around aggressive 19X7.5 inch split-five spoke Dark Graphite finished alloy wheels.

The new exterior styling shows that this RX 350 F SPORT is more aggressive on the road.  The new distinctive and contemporary front fascia is highlighted with Lexus’ signature chrome spindle grille and a bolder sport bumper, featuring an F SPORT exclusive mesh grille.  The upper edge of the grille is set lower than the upper edge of the HID headlight assembly to establish a more aggressive look.  Standard LED daytime running lights and combination rear LED lamps reflect the ‘L’ design motif. 

Foglamps are integrated into the sculpted lower front bumper fascia that also includes a centered splitter.  Pronounced front fenders flow into the doors, and integrated rear fender flares neatly sweep around to pull together the taut rear corners of the vehicle.  The lower bodykit emphasizes the standard 19 inch wheels and tires.  Distinctive F SPORT exterior badges are seen on the top of the front fenders.  The profile shows steeply raked windshield A-pillars, a full perimeter chrome strip around the greenhouse, a chrome strip below the doors, aero-styled heated/self-dimming/power-folding rearview mirrors, pull-out door handles and an aluminum roof rack. 

The rear fascia features a spoiler on top of the power opening/closing liftgate, a step-up bumper with a rubber pad.  Down below is a diffuser to help better manage the airflow out the rear underside.  There is one exhaust tip hidden under the bumper to give it a cleaner look but I would have liked to see dual exhaust pipes spaced at each end for a more aggressive look from behind.