What SUV Compares To Lexus RX 350? Options Explored

The Lexus RX 350 reigns supreme in the midsize luxury SUV market, consistently delivering a blend of comfort, quality, and a top-notch ownership experience. If you’re exploring alternatives, COMPARE.EDU.VN provides a comprehensive comparison to help you find the perfect fit. This guide explores various SUVs that offer similar features, performance, and luxury, ensuring you make an informed decision. Consider build quality, driving experience, and long-term reliability for smart SUV comparisons.

1. Understanding the Lexus RX 350’s Appeal

The Lexus RX 350 has maintained its dominance through a consistent formula: a spacious interior for five, exceptional build quality, premium materials, and an ownership experience that consistently ranks among the best. While Lexus now offers a three-row version, the five-passenger RX remains the flagship, prized for its roomy rear seats and generous cargo space. Before we dive into the competitors, let’s understand what makes the RX 350 so popular.

Comfort and Luxury: The RX 350 offers a smooth, quiet ride and a luxurious interior.
Reliability: Lexus is known for its reliability, which translates to lower maintenance costs and peace of mind.
Resale Value: Lexus vehicles typically hold their value well, making them a good investment.
Features: The RX 350 comes standard with many desirable features, such as a premium sound system, leather seats, and advanced safety technology.

2. Key Considerations When Comparing SUVs to the Lexus RX 350

When evaluating SUVs that compare to the Lexus RX 350, several factors come into play. These include performance, luxury features, reliability, technology, and overall value. Let’s break down each of these considerations.

Performance: Engine power, handling, and fuel efficiency are critical.
Luxury Features: Leather upholstery, premium sound systems, and advanced climate control are important for comfort.
Reliability: Long-term dependability and maintenance costs impact ownership satisfaction.
Technology: Infotainment systems, driver-assistance features, and connectivity options enhance the driving experience.
Value: Consider the initial price, resale value, and overall cost of ownership.

3. Direct Competitors: SUVs in the Same Class

Several SUVs directly compete with the Lexus RX 350 in the midsize luxury segment. These vehicles often offer similar features and price points.

3.1 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Mercedes-Benz has aggressively expanded its presence in the luxury SUV market, and the GLE is a prime example. Formerly known as the M-Class, the GLE has undergone a significant redesign, growing in size and offering a three-row option. With a range of engine choices, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (255 hp) and a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder (362 hp), the GLE presents serious competition to the Lexus RX.

Pros: Luxurious interior, advanced technology, powerful engine options.
Cons: Higher price point, complex infotainment system.

3.2 Acura MDX

The Acura MDX distinguishes itself with its three-row configuration, offering seating for up to seven passengers. While more three-row luxury SUVs are entering the market, the MDX relies on its engaging driving dynamics, generous equipment, and competitive pricing. Even base models come equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, leather-covered power front seats, and three-zone climate control. Its 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine provides a fun driving experience.

Pros: Three-row seating, sporty handling, good value for money.
Cons: Less luxurious interior compared to the RX 350, infotainment system can be dated.

3.3 Infiniti QX60

Sharing many components with the Nissan Pathfinder, the Infiniti QX60 remains a strong contender in the midsize luxury SUV category. It features Nissan’s excellent 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 hp and making the QX60 highly responsive. Paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that mimics a conventional transmission through “D-Step Logic,” the QX60 offers a smooth and efficient driving experience.

Pros: Comfortable ride, spacious interior, easy access to the third row.
Cons: CVT transmission, less sporty handling, aging design.

3.4 Cadillac XT5

Cadillac has worked hard to establish a unique design language that sets it apart from other luxury brands. The XT5 five-passenger SUV showcases this design, with a distinctive exterior and a spacious interior. Amenities include a split/sliding/reclining second-row seat, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, OnStar communications/concierge service, and a Bose premium audio system. The XT5 is powered by a 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine.

Pros: Stylish design, spacious interior, advanced technology features.
Cons: Divisive styling, reliability can be inconsistent, infotainment system can be complex.

4. Sportier Alternatives: SUVs with Enhanced Driving Dynamics

If you prioritize a more engaging driving experience, several SUVs offer sportier handling and performance compared to the Lexus RX 350.

4.1 BMW X5

BMW, preferring the term “sports activity vehicle” over “sport-utility vehicle,” designs the X5 with a focus on precise handling and satisfying performance. While practicality takes a back seat, the X5 still offers ample room for five passengers. The X5 sDrive35i and xDrive35i are equipped with a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, while the xDrive50i features a 445-hp turbocharged V8. Diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains are also available.

Pros: Sporty handling, powerful engine options, luxurious interior.
Cons: Higher price point, less cargo space, optional third row is cramped.

4.2 Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is a three-row luxury crossover with attractive styling and a well-crafted interior. The Q7’s MMI infotainment system is intuitive, featuring a 7.0-inch display, voice recognition, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base engine is a 252-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, while a 333-hp supercharged V6 is optional.

Pros: Stylish interior, user-friendly technology, available three-row seating.
Cons: Can be expensive, less sporty than the X5, engine options can feel underpowered.

4.3 Jaguar F-Pace

The Jaguar F-PACE stands out as one of the most stylish crossovers in the segment. It combines British craftsmanship with a range of powerful engines, including a 247-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a 296-hp version of the same engine, a 180-hp turbodiesel, and a 380-hp 3.0-liter supercharged V6 shared with the F-Type sports car.

Pros: Stylish design, sporty handling, powerful engine options.
Cons: Less luxurious interior, infotainment system can be complicated, reliability can be questionable.

5. Alternatives with Unique Features: Standing Out from the Crowd

Some SUVs offer unique features that set them apart from the Lexus RX 350 and other competitors.

5.1 Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is renowned for its leading-edge safety equipment and luxurious interior. Its smartly elegant design is both functional and beautiful. The Sensus infotainment system, while requiring a learning curve, offers high marks overall. The XC90 offers a range of powertrains, including a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder (T5), a 316-hp supercharged and turbocharged T6, and a 400-hp T8 hybrid version.

Pros: Advanced safety features, elegant interior, multiple powertrain options including a hybrid.
Cons: Infotainment system can be complex, less sporty handling, can be expensive.

5.2 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a midsize crossover SUV with a more sporting orientation than the larger, more luxurious Range Rover. It offers standard features like 19-inch wheels, an air suspension system, LED lighting, and dual-zone climate control. The Range Rover Sport is also the first Jaguar Land Rover product to offer a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain, the P400e, capable of driving up to 31 miles in all-electric mode.

Pros: Luxurious interior, off-road capability, available plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Cons: Higher price point, reliability can be questionable, infotainment system can be slow.

5.3 Lincoln Nautilus

The Lincoln Nautilus emphasizes handsome, upscale styling and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features called Lincoln Co-Pilot360. This includes blind spot information system, rear cross-traffic alert, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, auto high beams, lane-keeping, and a rearview camera. The top powerplant is a 335-hp 2.7-liter turbocharged engine, while the standard powerplant is a 250-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo.

Pros: Comfortable ride, advanced driver-assist features, stylish design.
Cons: Less sporty handling, interior design can be bland, reliability can be inconsistent.

6. Detailed Comparison Table: Lexus RX 350 vs. Competitors

To provide a clearer overview, here’s a comparison table highlighting key features and specifications of the Lexus RX 350 and its main competitors:

Feature	Lexus RX 350	Mercedes-Benz GLE	Acura MDX	Infiniti QX60	Cadillac XT5	BMW X5	Audi Q7	Volvo XC90	Jaguar F-Pace	Land Rover Range Rover Sport	Lincoln Nautilus
Starting Price	$48,950	$62,650	$51,050	$50,875	$45,295	$61,600	$59,200	$57,000	$52,400	$72,200	$46,220
Engine	3.5L V6	2.0L Turbo I4 / 3.0L Turbo I6	3.5L V6	3.5L V6	3.6L V6	3.0L Turbo I6 / 4.4L Turbo V8	2.0L Turbo I4 / 3.0L Supercharged V6	2.0L Turbo I4 / 2.0L Turbo & Supercharged I4 / 2.0L Plug-in Hybrid	2.0L Turbo I4 / 3.0L Supercharged V6 / Turbodiesel	2.0L Turbo I4 / 3.0L Supercharged V6 / Turbodiesel / Plug-in Hybrid	2.0L Turbo I4 / 2.7L Turbo V6
Horsepower	295 hp	255 hp / 362 hp	290 hp	295 hp	310 hp	335 hp / 456 hp	248 hp / 333 hp	250 hp / 316 hp / 400 hp	247 hp / 296 hp / 380 hp	247 hp / 340 hp / 254 hp / 398 hp	250 hp / 335 hp
Seating Capacity	5	5 / 7	7	7	5	5 / 7	7	7	5	5 / 7	5
Cargo Space (Rear Seats Up)	29.6 cu ft	33.3 cu ft	15.0 cu ft	14.8 cu ft	30.0 cu ft	33.9 cu ft	14.8 cu ft	15.8 cu ft	23.5 cu ft	27.5 cu ft	37.2 cu ft
Fuel Economy (City/Highway)	20/27 mpg	20/27 mpg	19/26 mpg	20/27 mpg	19/26 mpg	21/26 mpg	19/25 mpg	21/30 mpg	22/27 mpg	19/24 mpg	21/28 mpg
Key Features	Smooth ride, reliability	Luxurious, tech-forward	Good value, three rows	Comfortable, spacious	Stylish, feature-rich	Sporty, powerful	Stylish, tech-savvy	Safe, elegant	Sporty, stylish	Luxurious, off-road capable	Comfortable, feature-rich

Note: Prices and specifications may vary based on model year and trim level.

7. Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider

Choosing the right SUV depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:

Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend.
Seating Needs: Decide if you need a three-row SUV or if five seats are sufficient.
Driving Style: Consider whether you prioritize comfort, sportiness, or off-road capability.
Features: List the features that are most important to you, such as advanced safety technology, a premium sound system, or a panoramic sunroof.
Reliability: Research the reliability ratings of different models.

8. User Intent: Addressing Your Search Needs

Here are five common user intents when searching for SUVs that compare to the Lexus RX 350:

Finding Alternatives: Users want to explore other options in the same class as the RX 350.
Seeking More Value: Some users are looking for SUVs that offer similar features at a lower price.
Desiring More Space: Users with larger families may need a three-row SUV.
Wanting Sportier Performance: Some drivers want an SUV with more engaging handling and power.
Comparing Specific Features: Users may be focused on comparing specific features like fuel economy, safety technology, or infotainment systems.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most reliable alternative to the Lexus RX 350?
- The Acura MDX and Volvo XC90 are often cited as reliable alternatives.
Which SUV offers the most luxurious interior compared to the RX 350?
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE and Land Rover Range Rover Sport offer highly luxurious interiors.
Which SUV is the sportiest alternative to the Lexus RX 350?
- The BMW X5 and Jaguar F-Pace offer sportier handling and performance.
Which SUV offers the best fuel economy compared to the RX 350?
- The Volvo XC90, particularly the T8 plug-in hybrid, offers excellent fuel economy.
Which SUV has the most advanced safety features?
- The Volvo XC90 is known for its leading-edge safety technology.
Which SUV provides the best value for money compared to the RX 350?
- The Acura MDX offers a good balance of features and price.
Are there any fully electric SUVs that compare to the Lexus RX 350?
- While not a direct competitor in terms of powertrain, the Tesla Model Y offers a similar size and luxury level, with the added benefit of being fully electric.
What are the common problems with the Lexus RX 350?
- The RX 350 is generally reliable, but some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and minor electrical problems.
How does the Lexus RX 350 compare to the Lexus NX?
- The Lexus NX is a smaller, more affordable compact SUV, while the RX 350 is a larger, more luxurious midsize SUV.
What should I consider when choosing between the Lexus RX 350 and its competitors?
- Consider your budget, seating needs, driving style, desired features, and reliability expectations.

10. Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect SUV

The Lexus RX 350 remains a top choice in the midsize luxury SUV segment, but it’s not the only option. Depending on your priorities, several other SUVs offer compelling alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a sportier driving experience, more space, or unique features, there’s an SUV out there that’s right for you.

At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we understand the challenges of comparing different vehicles. That’s why we provide detailed, objective comparisons to help you make an informed decision. Our comprehensive reviews and comparison tools make it easy to evaluate different models and find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Ready to explore your options further? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today to find detailed comparisons, user reviews, and expert insights on the Lexus RX 350 and its competitors. Make the smart choice with COMPARE.EDU.VN.

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