There is no doubt that the 2011 Lexus RX 350 is one of the most popular cars in the luxury crossover segment.
When Lexus introduced the car a couple of years ago we reviewed it and took it on a snow covered Colorado dirt road (see video below) to see how it would handle the rough stuff.
OK, ‘rough stuff’ might not be the best words to use, but the Lexus RX 350 took everything that we threw at it in the video review with elegance and ease.
After a week in the 2011 model we still continue to be very impressed by the quality, fit and finish of the Lexus RX 350. We can confidently say that it is the perfect blend of new school crossover all-wheel-drive prowess with the old school luxury.
However, the new style of the Lexus RX 350 has not grown on us. In fact, we think that it is in desperate need of a serious nip and tuck. The previous models were sporty with an athletic and youthful stance. It reminded us slightly of a skateboard with a high waistline and rebellious in your face attitude.
The new model is all together way too serious with too much chrome and too many design cues that scream luxury.
We can’t help but feel the ultimate luxury is understated with form that follows function. The new Lexus RX 350 certainly has all of the right moves, but the funky nouveau design language feels stodgy instead of cool and hip.
On the way plus side the Lexus RX 350 has the nicest interior of any modern crossover with a mouse control that we think is the best in the car business. Period.
It also sips gas when compared to other fairly heavy crossovers in the same class, especially if you opt for the hybrid RX 450h. And we have no doubt that the quality, fit, and finish of the Lexus RX 350 will easily outlast the new car attention span of many owners, not to mention the typical three year lease.
That’s why on the TFLcar.com recommendation scale of:
– Buy it
– Lease it
– Rent it or
-Forget it
We give the 2011 Lexus RX 350 a “buy” rating. Now if only Lexus could take it to a talented plastic surgeon for a midlife (or is it mid-cycle) nip and tuck.
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