The 2026 Lexus RX 350 arrives with modest but meaningful updates, keeping its position as a luxury midsize SUV that combines comfort, style, and technology. Rather than a full redesign, Lexus has focused on refining features, adding convenience, and enhancing driver assistance—while maintaining the engines and overall character that made the RX popular. Buyers can expect a lineup of trims, solid performance from the gasoline-only version, and plenty of infotainment and safety tech to keep pace with competitors.
Engine, Performance, and Fuel Efficiency Enhancements
Under the hood, the 2026 RX 350 retains a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 275 horsepower and around 317 lb-ft of torque. Though Lexus has phased out the older V6 gas engines in many markets, this newer setup aims to offer better low-end torque and smoother response in everyday driving. The torque comes in earlier (as low as 1,700 rpm in some reports), which helps with acceleration from stops, merging into traffic, and generally reducing the need for high engine revs. All trims of the RX 350—for the gas version—maintain the same towing capacity as before, around 1,585 kg (approximately 3,494 lbs), which makes it consistent with previous years’ capability. Despite not having hybrid power in the standard RX 350 gas model, it aims to stay reasonably competitive on fuel efficiency for a luxury SUV of its size. When it comes to fuel economy, the 2026 RX 350 is not the most eco-friendly in Lexus’s lineup because of its gas-only setup, but it shows incremental improvements. In combined driving, estimates are about 25 mpg for front-wheel drive versions, and slightly less (around 24 mpg) for all-wheel drive configurations. In more precise terms, fuel consumption has been measured at roughly 11.2 L/100km in city driving, 8.4 L/100km on the highway, and around 9.9 L/100km combined in certain tests (e.g., Natural Resources Canada data). These figures reflect how Lexus has calibrated the turbo engine to deliver torque early and reduce high-rpm inefficiencies, making the RX 350 more usable in everyday stop-and-go traffic, though long highway stretches still lean on its non-hybrid status as a drawback. Handling and ride comfort remain strong points for the RX 350, especially in F Sport trims which offer optional packages like adaptive suspension, larger wheels (21-inch), and upgraded brakes (six-piston calipers) that enhance both aesthetics and performance. These trims tend to accentuate sporty feel without sacrificing the comfort and quiet cabin that the RX series is known for.
Interior, Tech, and Trim Level Details
Inside, the 2026 RX 350 maintains Lexus’s dedication to luxury, attention to detail, and driver-centric layout. The cabin features high quality materials, thoughtful design for ergonomics, and multiple trim levels allowing buyers to choose how luxurious and tech-rich they want their RX to be. Standard trim levels include names like Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling, F SPORT Performance, and F SPORT Design. Each step up brings additional features: Premium trims add comfort items (heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic or power tilt-and-slide moonroofs), while Luxury and F Sport trims focus on enhanced aesthetics, sound systems, and extra convenience. One of the standout upgrades for 2026 is that wireless phone charging is now standard across all RX trims. This small but meaningful update ensures that even lower trim level owners get some of the premium amenities that used to be reserved for higher price categories. Lexus has also added an “Appearance Package” option for F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance grades, allowing buyers to personalize the RX with sportier styling cues and more distinctive visual touches. Infotainment systems continue to be competitive: standard setups include digital gauge clusters (12.3-inch) and touchscreens (ranging from 9.8-inch up), with optional larger screens (up to around 14-inch) in premium trims, plus features like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, multiple USB ports, premium audio (e.g., Mark Levinson in higher trims), ambient lighting, head-up display in select versions, and other connected services. The layout keeps everything within reach for the driver, with well organized center consoles and thoughtful storage spaces. Cargo capacity remains strong, with behind-rear-seats volume of about 29.6 cubic feet, expanding when rear seats are folded to accommodate larger loads.
Pricing, Safety, and Value Propositions
In terms of pricing, the 2026 RX 350 sees slight increases compared to previous years but remains competitive within the luxury SUV segment. The base front-wheel drive RX 350 starts at around US$51,175, with the all-wheel drive version adding about US$1,600 to that base. Higher trim levels like Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F Sport Design, and F Sport Handling push the price upward, often into the mid-US$50,000s to low-US$60,000s depending on packages and whether AWD or luxury options are selected. For example, RX 350 Luxury versions can reach into the US$61,000–63,000+ range. On the safety front, Lexus has made sure the 2026 RX 350 comes loaded with state-of-the-art safety assistance systems. Every trim level includes the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which bundles features such as automatic high beams, full-speed adaptive cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, left-turn oncoming vehicle detection (with braking), lane trace assist, lane departure alert with steer assist, road sign recognition, and proactive driving assist. Additional safety equipment like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors are standard. Optional upgrades include more advanced camera systems (360-degree view), advanced park assist, and more sophisticated driver-aid features such as low-speed Traffic-Jam Assist which helps in bumper-to-bumper traffic with semi-autonomous steering assist. For many buyers these safety updates and convenience upgrades help justify the increased cost. In value terms, the 2026 RX 350 offers a strong proposition for those seeking luxury, reliability, and a broad feature set without going full hybrid or electric. For buyers who prioritize comfort, driving refinement, strong build quality, and resale value, the RX 350 remains a favorite. It may not offer maximal hybrid efficiency in the gas model, but its towing capability, refined drive, and rich standard features make it a balanced option. For those interested in lower fuel costs and emissions, Lexus also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions in the RX line, such as RX 350h or RX 450h+, which often include more features as standard. For people comparing against European and Asian rivals, the RX deals relatively well on build quality, quiet ride, premium interiors, and strong safety, but potential owners should check local pricing, incentives, servicing, and feature availability, which can vary widely by region.