Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Lexus RX 350 – a vehicle that's been a popular choice in the luxury crossover SUV market. We're going to break down everything, from its performance and features to how it stacks up against the competition. This review is based on insights and expert analysis from Edmunds, providing you with a thorough understanding of what makes this Lexus tick. So, if you're in the market for a comfortable, reliable, and stylish SUV, buckle up, because this 2017 Lexus RX 350 review is for you.

First off, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 represents a significant model in Lexus's lineup. This generation introduced a bold new design, moving away from the more conservative styling of previous models. The distinctive spindle grille, sleek headlights, and floating roof design give it a modern and premium appearance. But it's not just about looks; the RX 350 is also packed with technology, offering a refined driving experience, and a reputation for long-term reliability. We'll explore these aspects, covering the engine, handling, interior comfort, and tech features. We'll also examine the Edmunds' expert ratings, reviews, and test drive insights to give you an accurate picture of what it's like to live with this SUV. Whether you're considering buying new, used, or simply curious, this 2017 Lexus RX 350 Edmunds review will help you make an informed decision. The RX 350 has always been known for its comfortable ride and luxurious interior, making it a favorite for those prioritizing a smooth experience. The 2017 model builds on this foundation with further enhancements and refinements. Lexus has a history of building quality vehicles, and the RX 350 is a prime example of their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. The brand's focus on refinement extends to every aspect of the vehicle, from the materials used in the interior to the way it handles on the road. The 2017 model is a testament to this, offering a blend of luxury, practicality, and performance that is hard to ignore. The competition in the luxury SUV segment is fierce, but the RX 350 consistently holds its own, thanks to its blend of attributes that appeal to a wide range of buyers. So, whether you're a long-time Lexus fan or new to the brand, this review will help you understand why the 2017 Lexus RX 350 remains a compelling choice in its class.

Performance and Driving Experience

Let's talk about what's under the hood and how it feels to drive the 2017 Lexus RX 350. The vehicle is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Edmunds notes that the RX 350 delivers ample power for everyday driving, including merging onto the highway and overtaking other vehicles. The acceleration is brisk, with the SUV reaching 60 mph in a respectable time for its class. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which is an available option, offers enhanced traction and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) version is also available, providing a slightly better fuel economy. The driving experience is characterized by its comfort and refinement. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. One of the standout features of the RX 350 is its quiet cabin. Lexus has gone to great lengths to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness, creating a serene environment for both the driver and passengers. The engine is relatively quiet, and wind and road noise are well-suppressed, enhancing the overall feeling of luxury. The RX 350 is not intended to be a sports car, but it offers competent handling and predictable responses. The body roll is well-controlled, and the brakes provide ample stopping power. The overall driving experience is one of ease and comfort, making it a great choice for long journeys and daily commutes. Edmunds’ review often highlights the car's practical capabilities, mentioning its suitability for families and its ease of use in various driving scenarios. It's a car that's designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable on the road.

Key takeaways: The engine provides sufficient power, the ride is smooth and quiet, and the handling is predictable.

Interior Comfort and Features

Alright, let's step inside and explore the 2017 Lexus RX 350's interior. The cabin is where the Lexus RX 350 truly shines, offering a luxurious and well-appointed environment. The materials used throughout the interior are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and wood trim accents. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing ample space for both the driver and passengers. The front seats are especially noteworthy, with power adjustments and optional features like heating and ventilation. The rear seats also offer plenty of legroom, making it comfortable for adults to ride in the back. The design of the interior is elegant and functional, with a focus on driver convenience and ease of use. The dashboard features a clean layout, with an infotainment screen that is integrated seamlessly into the design. Lexus has made improvements to its infotainment system over the years, and the 2017 model features a user-friendly interface. The system includes features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. Other standard features include a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. Lexus also offers a range of optional features to enhance the luxury experience. These include a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a head-up display. The RX 350 provides a high level of comfort and convenience. The focus is on creating a relaxing and enjoyable environment. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the stitching on the seats to the design of the center console. The Edmunds review often points out the user-friendliness of the various features, emphasizing how easy it is to operate the infotainment system and other controls. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is designed to provide a premium experience, making every journey a pleasure.

Key Features: High-quality materials, comfortable seats, user-friendly infotainment, and a host of standard and optional features.

Technology and Infotainment

Now, let's explore the tech side of the 2017 Lexus RX 350. The SUV is equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience and keep you connected. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a large display screen, which is used to control various functions, including audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. The 2017 model includes a user-friendly interface. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming. Smartphone integration is also available, with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle's system. The RX 350 also comes with a range of safety features. This includes a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing. Other safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Lexus also offers a range of optional tech features to enhance the driving experience. These include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, and a premium audio system, which delivers high-quality sound. The technology features in the RX 350 are designed to be both functional and easy to use. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, and the safety features provide an added layer of protection. Edmunds often provides a detailed breakdown of the technological capabilities. It focuses on the user-friendliness of the interface and the effectiveness of the safety features. Lexus has a reputation for integrating technology seamlessly into its vehicles, and the RX 350 is no exception. Whether it's the convenience of smartphone integration or the peace of mind provided by advanced safety systems, the RX 350 offers a tech-savvy experience.

Key Tech Features: User-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, advanced safety features, and optional premium audio and head-up display.

Trim Levels and Options

Let's break down the different trim levels and options available for the 2017 Lexus RX 350. The RX 350 typically comes in a few different trims. These trims offer varying levels of features and equipment, allowing buyers to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget. The base trim usually comes with a well-equipped list of standard features. These features often include leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a comprehensive infotainment system. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find additional features and upgrades. These may include a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features. Lexus also offers various option packages. These packages typically bundle together a set of features that enhance the vehicle's functionality, comfort, or appearance. For example, you might find a package that includes a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling elements, and upgraded interior trim. Another popular option is the Luxury Package, which adds features such as premium leather upholstery, wood trim accents, and heated and ventilated front seats. The RX 350 also offers a range of standalone options. These allow buyers to customize their vehicle further by selecting specific features. The availability of different trim levels and options gives buyers a great deal of flexibility. Buyers can create a vehicle that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Edmunds reviews often delve into the specific features of each trim level. They provide a detailed overview of the equipment and value each option offers. By understanding the trim levels and options, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a 2017 Lexus RX 350. It is best to choose a vehicle that perfectly matches your desired features and budget.

Trim highlights: Base, F Sport, and Luxury packages offer varying levels of features and upgrades.

Edmunds' Expert Ratings and Reviews

Alright, let's see what the experts at Edmunds have to say about the 2017 Lexus RX 350. Edmunds' reviews are known for their comprehensive analysis and in-depth insights into vehicles. They typically provide ratings based on various factors. These factors include performance, comfort, interior quality, technology, and value. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 usually receives positive ratings from Edmunds, particularly for its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and long-term reliability. Edmunds' reviewers often highlight the vehicle's comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and user-friendly features. They often praise the high-quality materials used throughout the interior and the intuitive infotainment system. Edmunds' reviews also offer valuable information about the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses. The review may note areas where the vehicle could be improved, such as the infotainment system's control interface or the fuel economy. They also provide comparisons to other vehicles in the class, helping you to understand how the RX 350 stacks up against its competitors. Besides ratings, Edmunds provides valuable information. The information is derived from their testing and real-world driving experiences. This includes detailed test drive impressions. They also include insights into the vehicle's performance, handling, and overall driving dynamics. The reviews also offer information on pricing, fuel economy, and available options. The Edmunds review is a valuable resource for anyone considering purchasing a 2017 Lexus RX 350. The review provides an objective assessment of the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses. It is a good idea to consider the overall value proposition. You can easily see how the RX 350 compares to other vehicles. Edmunds also provides user reviews, which offer real-world perspectives. These reviews can give you an insight into what it's like to own and live with the vehicle. Reading these reviews can provide a balanced and well-informed view of the RX 350, helping you make the best decision.

Key Insights: Positive ratings for comfort, interior quality, and reliability; detailed test drive impressions; comparisons to competitors.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Let's talk about the reliability and ownership costs associated with the 2017 Lexus RX 350. Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability, and the RX 350 is often praised for its dependable performance and low maintenance requirements. Edmunds and other sources often give the RX 350 high marks for reliability. These typically based on data from consumer surveys and industry reports. This data reflects the vehicle's performance over several years of ownership. This suggests that the RX 350 is a reliable vehicle that requires minimal repairs and maintenance. The ownership costs associated with the RX 350 are generally considered to be reasonable. The vehicle's fuel economy is competitive for its class, and the cost of routine maintenance is typically lower. Lexus vehicles are also known for their strong resale value. This means that you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you decide to sell or trade in your RX 350. Of course, the actual ownership costs will vary depending on factors such as where you live. This includes your driving habits and the specific maintenance needs of your vehicle. However, on average, the RX 350 is known to have lower ownership costs. These are typically compared to other luxury SUVs in its class. When considering the RX 350, it is a good idea to research. Research the average cost of insurance and maintenance in your area. You can also review consumer reports and owner feedback. This can give you a clear view of the potential ownership experience. Lexus' focus on quality and reliability can provide peace of mind. Knowing that the vehicle is designed to last and require minimal repairs. This contributes to the overall value and appeal of the 2017 Lexus RX 350. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable and cost-effective luxury SUV.

Ownership highlights: Strong reliability, reasonable running costs, and good resale value.

Pros and Cons

To wrap things up, let's look at the pros and cons of the 2017 Lexus RX 350, based on the Edmunds review and overall industry insights.

Pros:

• Comfort and Ride Quality: The RX 350 is known for its comfortable ride, which absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. The cabin is quiet, making it a pleasant place to spend time. This is often highlighted by Edmunds.
• Luxurious Interior: The interior features high-quality materials and a well-designed layout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the overall ambiance is premium.
• Reliability: Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability, and the RX 350 is no exception. This reduces the likelihood of costly repairs and downtime.
• User-Friendly Features: The infotainment system and other controls are generally easy to use. Safety features are also often praised for their effectiveness and ease of use.
• Resale Value: The RX 350 tends to hold its value well over time. This can be a significant factor when considering the total cost of ownership.

Cons:

• Infotainment System: Some users may find the infotainment system's control interface less intuitive than others.
• Acceleration: While the engine provides sufficient power, some competitors offer quicker acceleration.
• Styling: Some may find the exterior styling of the RX 350 to be somewhat polarizing. Others love it.
• Fuel Economy: While competitive for its class, the fuel economy isn't the best in the segment.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Lexus RX 350 a Good Choice?

So, after looking through the Edmunds review, is the 2017 Lexus RX 350 a good choice? Absolutely, yes! The 2017 Lexus RX 350 continues to be a top contender in the luxury crossover SUV market. Its blend of comfort, reliability, and user-friendly features makes it a solid option for anyone in the market. The RX 350 offers a refined driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. These are all significant factors that contribute to its appeal. The focus on comfort and ease of use makes it a great choice for both daily commutes and long journeys. While it may not be the sportiest SUV in its class, its strengths lie in its overall refinement and practicality. The RX 350 is a vehicle designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable. The high-quality materials used in the interior and the attention to detail. This makes it a great choice. The strong resale value also adds to its appeal, making it a smart long-term investment. If you are looking for a reliable and luxurious SUV, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is definitely worth considering. It is also a good idea to consider the other similar vehicles in the segment. That would allow you to get the best car that meets your needs.

Thanks for reading! Hopefully, this review provides you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the 2017 Lexus RX 350.