Written by Marco Carvajal
Test driving the 2019 Lexus RX 350L AWD, a luxury and powerful SUV with an additional third row of seats. This stretched three-row edition is ideal for families or groups.
The RX 350 L includes the same powerful engine, interior luxury and signature design from regular RX 350 models, adding a third row.
RX L Models
The RX created the luxury crossover segment 20 years ago and since 2018 Lexus has redesigned he best luxury utility vehicle available.
The New RX L models provides luxury and Six or Seven Passenger capacity in the form of the 350 L or 450h L. RX L SUVs are Available with V6 Gas as the 350 L or Hybrid Powertrains as the 450 h L. RX 350L and RX 450hL models retain their original style.
L trims include Power-Fold Third Row Seat Standard, Leather Trimmed Seating on First Two Rows and Tri-Zone Climate Control Standard and Optional Hands-Free Power Tailgate.
L models include a flat load floor behind the folded third-row, two third-row cupholders, and more features.
RX L Models Include Third Row
The new RX L models bring the option of a new trim level with a third row. New L models include great performance and maneuverability typical of the RX Lexus’ midsize SUV. The new RXL models will retain RX’s sophisticated features while providing more room.
With mastery architecture and design, Lexus extended the body length of the RX, 4.3 inches (110 mm) in the rear and added a steeper tailgate window angle compare to the classic tow-row models. Providing a great result of a longer RX SUV with good headroom and space for third-row passengers.
The third row of the RX L models offer less comfort and luxury than the middle row, this row is ideal for children or small passengers. The positioning of the second row is slightly higher than the third row, creating more foot room for rear passengers. A convenient tri-zone climate control gives independence to third-row passengers, with separate heating and air conditioning vents.
The passengers in the first two rows of the RXL enjoy first-class seats. Captain’s chairs are available now on the second-row of the RX350L, taking comfort to first-class luxury. Leather-trimmed upholstery is standard for the first and second rows.
Nice standard features are a power-folding third-row seat and power tailgate, both standard on the RX L models.
Models
Lexus RX line is offer on 6 main trims:
- RX 350
- RX 350 F Sport
- RX 350 L
- RX 450 h (Hybrid)
- RX 450 h F Sport (Hybrid)
- RX 450 hL (Hybrid)
The RX 350, 350 F, and 350 L is available as FWD or AWD. All 450 models are AWD standard.
Pricing
The pricing on the RX line ranges from a starting price of $43,820 all the way to $50,970.
- MSRP for the 2019 Lexus RX 350L AWD: $49,420
RX 350L Engine: 290-Horsepower V6
Driving the 350L you can feel the power of the advanced 3.5-liter V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. More than enough power with 290 hp and 263 lb.-ft. of torque.
The 3.5-liter V6 employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, which combines direct and port fuel injection systems. To maximize efficiency, Variable Valve Timing – Intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) is used along with VVT-i.
Using Drive Mode Select, the RX 350L driver can enjoy more control by choosing from among three driving modes. Normal driving mode provides an ideal everyday balance of performance and energy conservation, Sport mode puts an edge on powertrain responsiveness and finally Eco mode operates the powertrain at its most efficient level.
AWD (All Wheel Drive)
Just like the two-row RX 350, the RX 350L is available with front-wheel drive or available Dynamic Torque Control All Wheel Drive. Under normal cruising conditions, the system engages front-wheel drive to help reduce fuel consumption.
The Lexus RX 350 offers the choice between front-wheel drive and Dynamic Torque Control AWD. This advanced AWD system takes input from various sensors such as wheel speed, engine RPM, steering angle, throttle opening angle and yaw rate, to actively govern torque distribution to the rear wheels using an electromagnetically controlled coupling in the rear differential.
When the vehicle is accelerating, the system automatically shifts to AWD to help prevent front-wheel slippage. While cruising, the system reverts to FWD, and when sensors detect wheel slippage, it can vary front to rear torque distribution.
RX 350 L Masterpiece
While driving the RX, I can enjoy leading-edge technology and exceptionally smooth performance. The RX L provides refined styling, comfort and a newly appointed interior in the seven-passenger RX 350L. Innovation paired with performance and best Lexus technologies like the available color Head-Up Display and 12.3-inch wide-screen multimedia display.
Safety features and driver assists features are excellent, typical of premium mastering of Lexus.
The new RX L is a great mix of large space, luxury, performance and maneuverability, it is a great comfortable automobile for fast highway cruising and driving around town.
