Used 2008 Lexus RX 350 SUV Consumer Reviews
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Lexus lives up to its reputation
I was looking for a mid-size SUV with power, luxury comfort, good handling, solid engineering, minimal maintenance and a quiet ride. I did a lot of research and test drove 7 different brands. The Lexus was clearly superior to all of the others. The RX350 checked all of the boxes and then some. It is as solid as a tank but it drives like a sport sedan. I knew I'd be sacrificing some MPG to get the power & responsiveness I wanted but I have been very pleased with the mileage considering I drive about 75% city and 25% highway. If I ever get tired of this car I know my next one will be a Lexus too. **Update: I have now owned this Lexus for more than a year and my original review still stands. I've had no maintenance issues and am still delighted with this vehicle.
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Love this RX 350!
This is my second RX. The first was a 04 RX 330. I like this car so much better because it has the larger 3.5 engine and along with that no timing belt to replace! This model also has updated navigation and Bluetooth along with voice command. I love the Lexus brand and the great reviews this car has. I recommend it!
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- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,90034 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,99554 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: N/A34 mi away
Excellent car
I have had this car since 2007. It has virtually given me no trouble at all. Everything has held up beyond anything I ever expected from a vehicle
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My Car Is Smarter Than I Am
If you are thinking about a Lexus RX350 Just Do IT! I was overthinking and unsure when I decided to buy this car because it had belonged to my mechanic. I trust him because he works on my BMW Z3 and had an urgent need for another car when my Volvo experienced a sudden death. "It's just another car" I thought. Boy was I wrong. I LOVE and ADORE this car. The heated seats are a treat. The stereo system, navigation and blue tooth were easy to figure out. The first time it rained i was laughing all the way home as the sensing system turned the wipers on and off as needed. Seriously? When a dash light came on I though "uh OH". the honeymoon is over, now the problems start. Nope, it was telling me my (full size) SPARE tire was low. Everything about this car is delightful. Cargo space is huge, back seats have their own cup holders. The push button tailgate is wonderful. I never imagined a car could do all this. Mostly I feel safe in the car. It's big, roomy but drives responsively. I still miss my '94 Volvo may he rest in peace but this car, even used is my perfect choice.
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Excellent family car!
After years and years of research for the perfect "next" family car, my husband and I settled on a used (2008) RX 350, and couldn't be happier. We had bought a Chrysler Pacifica when they first came out in 2004 and had terrible luck with reliability, but couldn't justify trading it in until we got our money out of the thing. So basically we have been looking for the next car for 7 years. Having 2 younger children we were set on another three row vehicle, but were not happy with the costs of a new Pilot, Acadia, Highlander, etc. We then looked at the two row luxury market and almost got a Volvo xc70. I'm so glad we test drove the certified used RX 350 first. Love it!!! and the price.
2008 LEXUS RX350 AWD
I cannot begin to tell you how much we love this car. This is the 3rd Lexus in a row. First was a very fast/fun/reliable SC, (lasted to about 350,000 miles and still running) 2nd was an RX300 (not quite as reliable, but good enough I guess - traded at 194,000) This one though, is still better than both previous - only things added were trailer hitch, trailer lighting cord ("factory," just plugged it in to a provided and conveniently located chassis harness). "GADGETS" all seem to work wonderfully and its packed with gadgets. Wonderful comfortable ride.
My rx350
Got a great deal on a great car , these cars have Toyota engines and there bulletproof but my trany just went out at 185,000 , 4g’s for rebuild
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2008 Lexus RX 350 AWD, the best RX yet
This is my third Lexus RX and by far the best yet. The previous were 2004, and 2005. The 2008 is smoother, quieter, faster and slightly more fuel efficient than the 330s. The transmission shifts seamlessly and the power comes on more smoothly. This car is one that can handle many needs. Its very comfortable and all the controls are easy to use. Everything works perfectly. The back-up camera and gen 5 nav systems are definitely upgrades over the 2005. Both previous RXs were very reliable with no service issues at all, and this 2008 should be the same. Has no problem in snow. Gets you where you need to go in comfort and without any worries. This is where it excels.
The best SUV in its class!!
Absolutely love it! Test drove BMW X5 and MB ML class, but Lexus is much better. It gives that exceptional feeling of being the man who spends money wisely, but gets the best out of it. Inside this car, you feel yourself pampered and mainly safe due to its safety features. Moreover, gas mileage, exterior design, true price to own is the best. I can go on forever here folks, but this is the best SUV for your money!
2008 Lexus RX 350
This unit runs like a dream. Everything not only works, things work well. The rain sensing wipers were set to auto when new, and I haven't touched them since - they come on when needed, and go off when not. The AC was set to auto, 72 degrees, and I haven't touched it since. The unit has understated elegance, very subtle. I couldn't be more satisfied.
The dashboards melt, Lexus is slow to fix.
I bought this car used with 60k miles on it, and 2.5 years later it's at 85k. In that time I've replaced a water pump (~$500) and a rack & pinion (~$1800). Everything else has been general maintenance (oil/brake/filter changes, etc.) The car handles well on the road, and I love the feel of driving it. It has enough engine to accelerate well and the suspension is setup to be comfortable, although it will feel a bit like turning a boat around sharp turns. Unfortunately, the interior of the car has some issues. The GPS is dated and clumsy to use. The controls for adjusting many common things like fan speed are buried inside a digital menu system that is difficult to use while driving if you want any more control than adjusting a temp and letting it decide whether to blow full speed or low speed fan to achieve that temp. There is no USB / aux input so you're stuck using a tape deck adapter or replacing the stereo console if you want to connect your phone. My biggest problem, however, has been that my dashboard cracked & melted (pics: http://imgur.com/a/B62He) This is part of known issue (https://www.carbuyingtips.com/articles/blog/lexus-to-pay-for-cracked-dashboard-repairs.htm) and is being replaced as part of a warranty recall. [edit] Updating this review to reflect that Lexus did replace the dashboard after over a year of being on a waitlist to replace it.
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Lexus Rx 350 is the best!
We currently do not own a Lexus RX 350 but my husband and I did own a Lexus RX 300 up until someone driving 55 mph in a 30 mph zone hit us as we were sitting still at a stop light, the truck did not stop at all and hit us full force which consequently pushed us into a new Honda Pilot which was approximately five feet ahead of us. This accident totaled all three vehicles, but we were the only one who was able to drive our vehicle home, all though the impact knocked our lexus off it's frame, the truck's front end was practically gone. The insurance company totaled our vehicle, but it and God, saved both of our lives. I will and am looking forward to purchasing a Lexus RX 350 Asap.
Inferior Tires
Vehicle drives and handles great overall. Car had tendency to pull to right while driving. Dealer re-balanced tires and realigned front end on several occasions,but vehicle still had slight pull to right. Around 15,000 miles, car started making a roaring sound while driving (sound like excessive road noise). When I took the car in for the 15,000 mile checkup, dealer informed me that tires needed changing. Dealer said Lexus cars come equipped with low quality tires (Goodyear). Replaced the Goodyear tires with Michelin tires which were recommended by the dealer. By the way, I had to pay for two of the new Michelin tires. Never had a tire wear out in 15,000 miles (40 year driver).
Great Car!
So far, so good! I'm a first time Lexus owner and the transition from internet inquiries to actual possession was very smooth and professional! I will admit, there's a bit more wind noise than I anticipated (based on the reviews); but it's still a quiet ride. I had to make adjustments to the way I would normally sit in order to be truly comfortable in the driver's seat. The navigation system seems adequate (I've compared it to Mapquest/Yahoo Maps and find them to be a bit more precise). I haven't connected the Bluetooth phone yet, so I can't comment on that feature. Actual gas mileage isn't bad for an SUV - I get about 20-23 MPG in the city, so I can't complain. :-)
Don't even classify it with a Highlander
This is on the same platform as the Toyota Highlander, as you probably already know, but it's a completely different animal. It's got an astounding amount of power and torque, especially if you get it in the AWD drive-train. Only repetitive issue that I've ran into is the A/C, I've had the evaporator, compressor and a few hoses replaced over the 2 years that I've owned this vehicle (I bought it in October 2018 with 123K on the odometer) and the issues keep resurfacing but it's something new every time so I'll knock one-star off for it. Other than the A/C, it's a great vehicle for the money and holds its value like crazy. Obviously, if you need something to tow, get the GX or even LX but this little thing grips the road like a performance crossover. Definitely worth the money.
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Love This Car.. Hate the Tires!!!
This car is a dream to own. Everything about it exudes class and refinement except the tires. They are very noisy. I don't experience any wind noise but a lot of tire noise at highway speed. Around town it is a gem. Very good acceleration for an SUV. When the time comes a difeerent set of tires will be put in their place
Reliability like no other
126K and no major problems aside from maintenance. One of the most reliable cars I have owned!!
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Gold standard of SUVs
I am on the road a lot and appreciate how quiet this vehicle really is. The cabin is so quiet I actually look forward to talking on the cell phone over the car's blue tooth. I have owned Hondas and Toyotas in the past so appreciate the level of build quality that went into the RX. I have near 15k and not one single problem. I average around 21 in the city, 27 on the highway. In summary, Lexus RX 350 is the gold standard of SUVs.
Dashboard crack/ split
Lexus will not stand behind this model / year dashboard crack. I have owned 3 different RX 350…20 years worth. The cracking is a known problem and I guess they fixed it up to 2017. Now no support. We were never notified of this problem and we are original owners. Didn’t even get any ideas on how to fix. Auto upholsterers, dealers, car repair places won’t touch it. Beware! Audi, Mercerdes and Infiniti are now looking like good alternatives. Too bad.
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Another great product from Lexus
Let me preface by saying that my wife and I have owned several different cars (3 hondas, 1 nissan, 1 lexus, and 1 bmw). This is our first foray into the SUV market. Lexus again has produced another great product/car!! This car is the best value for the money. The one we purchased was silver titanium with black leather. Premium Plus package with navigation. Chrome 18 inch 5 spoke wheels, HID, AFS, and All wheel drive. The car we just got rid of was a piece of crap 2003 BMW 330i sedan. BMWs may have that "fun to drive" factor BUT mechanically and quality wise they can't compare to the Lexus. The build quality on this Lexus is superb. Fit and finish is top notch.
Third Rx and improving
This Rx is the third I've purchased since 1999. I must admit Lexus got me hooked. I particularly enjoy the sports tuned suspension with the low- profile tires and increased horsepower. The gas mileage is exceptionally well I routinely averaged 27 miles to the gallon on the highway. One experiment on Route 80 from Lake Erie to Jersey border with cruise control set at 65, I actually received 31 miles per gallon.
Very happy with lexus rx350
I have been in my rx350 for almost 3 years and have been very pleased with it. It is sporty, reliable, and luxurious all at once. It has plenty of room for the things I need to haul around as an interior decorator or to take a family vacation. Front and rear seats are both very comfortable. Only minor complaints are acceleration is a bit jumpy and there is a slight blind spot when backing up (resulting in a little fender bender!)
RX is Great
Super reliable, safe, comfortable, looks great. Good gas mileage for SUV. This is my fourth Lexus RX, when I sell this one, buying a 2017. The technology just keep getting better and better! Sold and bought a new 2017 RX
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So you thought you had a reliable car!
I love the way this car drives and the comfort of this car. The breaking of the car is excellent. However the alternator was replaced at 75,000 miles and today at just less than 90,000 miles I have had to replace the power steering train which is 2000+ dollars and the back right strut which is another $750. I don't consider this a good buy when at 90,000 miles a powertrain starts leaking. I've had BMWs before and never had the issues that I have had with this car now. Today I have a new model SUV that's on loan to me and I was considering a purchase possibly have a newer car since my car is 2008 however after seeing the repairs today I don't trust Lexus to be that good a car. I kept my BMWs 13 and 15 years and never had the major repairs that this car has had. So much for all of the reviews that say this car is so incredibly reliable. It's now another 10,000 miles later and the car is now about 9 1/2 years old. I've had to replace the front brakes again but that doesn't bother me. The car has actually done fairly well the last 10,000 miles but the lack of technology for safety is making me rethink whether I'm going to keep this car or not. In any case it won't be another Lexus RX 350 because I don't like feeling like I'm squished in a cockpit or the design of the new car. Safety technology has become my number one issue. This car kept me from a bad car accident two years ago when a car cut out in front of me and I was able to hit the brakes hard and fast. I still really enjoy driving the car so I may keep it another five years unless it falls apart. I have a friend with the exact same car and mileage and hasn't spent a cent on repairs so maybe mine is just a fluke. Still like the car and will be driving it for a few more years I am sure.
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Engine Noise
HELP! Engine very noisy especially whenever I accelerate and I was told by LEXUS that it is normal. When I test drove it, it was not noisy and I thought the noise came from the tires as I was told to change when it was under 20,000 miles as the inner treads were worn.
Lexus will not stand by their product
I have a 2008 Lexus RX 350. The dashboard is falling apart because it is junk. This is happening to Lexus vehicles across the country. Lexus has admitted the problem and issued a "warranty enhancement" saying they will replace the faulty dashboards at no cost. The problem is they have no intention of fixing these dashboards. I have been on their repair list for well over one year, each time I call they give excuses that they are waiting on parts. When I ask when the parts might be in? Their response "sometime maybe this year or next year". Buy at your own risk, if anything is faulty they do not stand by their product.
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Bulletproof but not always DIY friendly.
If you're looking for luxury and reliability this is her! This vehicle is extremely reliable. My only annoyance is how it's a little tough to work on. Spark Plugs or water pump are not easy at all to do on this vehicle. My dash is also cracking. The transmission has started to slip at 120,000miles which was the dealers fault as they overtightened a bolt and caused a leakage. The RX350 handles well in my opinion, keeps you safe in rainy or snowy weather, and with good spark plugs combined with 93 octane has plenty of pickup. Overall 9.5/10 just wish it was easier to DIY. Getting 16mpg in city and 20 on highway.
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Good car, except for the rattle
I have had my Lexus for over a year now, and it is a great vehicle. Very powerful, nice looking, and nice interior. But I just started hearing a rattle on the passenger side window that is very annoying. At first it seemed like it was just on bumpy roads, but now it's getting worse. I am going to ask the dealer about it. Other than that a very nice car.
So far, great car!
I am enjoying driving this car, but still getting to know it. I was driving an Infiniti sedan before purchasing this vehicle so the I am still getting used to the change in feel. The RX 350 is not a "fun" ride, but it is a very, very nice ride and calms my soul and makes me feel very nice about the day. I now enjoy driving to run errands or drop off kids to activities instead of loathing it. Overall, I really like the car and look forward to the many years we will have together.
RX 350
Fabulous ride, performance, and comfort.
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My First Lexus!
As a BMW owner for many years, I felt it was time to try something new. I chose Lexus over the other competition and I must say that I am more than satisfied. The RX 350 is a smooth and quiet ride with good acceleration when on the move. My vehicle is equipped with the Premium Plus Package that includes the Voice Activated Nav System with Bluetooth and Rear Back-Up Camera. It has adequate trunk space with one touch automatic rear door (very helpful when you're carrying a bunch of groceries and of course it looks cool). You definitely get more value for your dollar with this vehicle than you do the competition.
CPO 2008 RX350 AWD
Bought my CPO 2008 RX350 just a few weeks ago, already put 700+ miles on it. Ride is butter smooth, especially helpful over horrible NYC roads... Fuel economy is excellent for an AWD SUV (got 30MPG highway only and 21- 22MPG driving 50/50). Interior is quiet, stylish and attractive. HID headlights are so much brighter than regular halogens I have on my 2004 GX470! Paid $29K with 3yr/100K bumber- to-bumber warranty for a vehicle with only 31K miles and driving and looking like brand-new. Another great product Lexus, and it's what keeps me coming back.
Classy design and well engineered
Purchased the car in March 07, and have about 7500 miles on it. I love everything about the car, from its great looks to the wonderfully comfortable ride. The car has plenty of pep, and gets above average gas mileage for an SUV. The interior cabin is so quiet that it feels like you're in a sound proof room; no road or engine noise at all. The car has just about every luxury feature you can imagine, including a color video back-up camera which is very useful. My first dealer experience at 5K miles was great, they really treated me right. And the best part about that first service is it's free! Anyway, great car, and I'm very happy we got it.
Jack of many trades, master of all?
My wife and I love our Lexus RX 350, an amazing blend of ideal traits providing the utility of an SUV, exceptionally smooth driving experience, startling acceleration for an SUV, incredible gas mileage for an SUV (we're averaging 23.5 mpg in mixed driving), very smart interior layout with little extra touches like the extra retractable cup holder to the left of the steering wheel in addition to the console cup holders. It's extremely comfortable, making short and long trips a pleasure, etc. It's quite evident that a lot of thought went into this vehicle. It's so versatile without compromising performance, safety, quality, or comfort.
Happy Husband
This is what my wife wanted and it has exceeded her expectations. From my perspective, the RX 350 is boring but dependable and it holds its value. Only one issue, the leather seats are not well made and your clothing colors may darken the seats. The dealer claims " the seats are so soft, that's why they are absorbing the color". That is "bunk". We have a bamboo Pearl exterior with tan leather - clothing fabric should not be absorbed into the seats--be careful. Nothing compares to my LS,but my wife loves the car. And it's all about her.
Better Than Benz
We carefully selected the RX 350 on reliability, resale and original price and have been very pleased with the vehicle. We bought a new E-350 Benz about the same time, paid $12K more, and got less value than the Lexus. The Lexus navigation and accessories are touch-screen, all the controls are easily accessible and although a very complex machine, is user friendly. The Benz and a new BMW 5-series in our family require a degree in computer science and a full stop to do the same thing the Lexus system does. Sensible driving gets 20 mpg in local traffic.
Even Better in 2008
This is my second RX. Just traded in the '04 model and I'm blown away with all the upgrades. Clearly there were focus groups held and Toyota/Lexus listened! Better acceleration/power, better fuel economy, and all the right upgrades to the navigation system. I bought again based primarily on the RX's proven track record for reliability, no test drive, no haggling, and I was blown away when I sent to pick up the car. Everything on my wish list from the '04 was delivered.
Fantastic SUV
I just bought the RX 350 three weeks ago and I absolutely love it. I live in Pittsburgh and was able to test it out in the last snow/ice storm we had, and the car performed admirably. I couldn't be happier with it. Lots of cabin room, seating 4 or 5 is comfortable. Very good with pick-up, given that the V6 puts out 270 hp, and the RX's competitors are all V8s (easier on the wallet with gas too).
2008 Lexus RX350 - Love it...
It's been great. Has nearly all options. No problems so far. It just "feels right." Everything just seems to "work" right and seems well placed.
Good car but not for me
It's a good car but not for me. Seat is not comfortable at all (6ft tall) too small seat and gave me backpain even had lumber support. Useless armrest. Not good air filter for cabin. I would only recommend this car for the driver who would enjoy smooth driving, superior customer service, clean dealership and smaller height person.
Problems, and More Problems
The car has 2300 miles on it and needs a transmission repair. Many rattles and other strange noises. Hyundai quality maybe better. The car is not as quite as many reviews have stated. It is actually very noisy. This car at over $40k compares to a Chevy or Buick,not a real luxury car. Overpriced, and poorly built.
lexus rx 350 2008
I bought this car at Lexus of Las Vegas ( original owner ) The vehicle drive smooth but the tranmision 2nd & 3rd jerking really bad i bring it back to the dealer they tell me tranmision went out. Estimated $5000.00 to replace. At 74600 miles the tranny give up That is not reliable . According to service man he see a lot tramision problem some are newer.I have 3 boys i drive like an old man i never thought this could happened. Very disappointed
Excellent Ride
I have had this car for 1 week, and I am in love. It is plush, rides very nicely, and all the interior features work very well together (GPS, XM, Bluetooth, rear camera, entertainment system) - as one system, not as aggregate ones. My only complaint (minor) is that the driver seat does not go back enough for long legs. Also, I find the steering wheel a tad less comfortable than the Toyota Highlander (which this car looks so much like inside). Sound is good. Handling is excellent. Overall, a great buy.
Sweet ride
So far I am completely 100% satisfied. The ride is smooth and the power is strong. I was looking for comfort, styling, and reliability. The Lexus has all of them and then some.
I'm In Love
Have only had my 2008 RX 350 for 2 months & really love it. The handling is so smooth even tho the turning radius is not as tight as my 2003 Ford Expedition! The seats allow me to sit up fairly high which I like as I'm short. I find the back lumbar and seat adjustments especially nice. All the tiny lights in the drink holders and floor are a nice touch. The mileage is not too bad, but certainly not all I hoped for. Most of my driving is just around town so I don't know why it various from 14-18 mpg.
A fine family hauler
Walking up to it is it's own reward. Having the steering wheel slide out of the way when removing the key makes getting in and out all the easier. Put in the key and the seat, outside mirrors and steering wheel move back to one of two memorized locations. That first five seconds alone make the RX 350 better than my other rides. The all-wheel-drive keeps the tires locked to the pavement as the "killer corssover" eagerly accelerates under a heavy foot. With a minivan ride / height, you are not going to rail any corners. If you try, a bunch of gizmos conspire to take the spirit out of the drive. I suppose that's better than just flipping over but that's why it gets a 7 for performance.
RX 350
I owned an RX 330 and traded it for a MB. I traded the MB two months later for the RX 350. It is true, you do not know what you have until it's gone. This should be enough said but I'll go on. The RX 350 is the perfect car. The XM/nav/rear camera, etc., work in concert and flawlessly; very easy to operate. Engine power is very adequate with pick up when you need it. Love, love, love this car.
Glad I leased
Good comfort and ride. Gas mileage is surprisingly good, between 18 and 24 mpg depending on how much city vs. highway driving we do. Room inside is good for four people. Cargo area is disappointing with rear seat up. Rx is easy to drive and park. I'm not really overly impressed with anything about the RX except the power plant, it has very good power for a car of this weight. I will return the RX in 23 months but feel satisfied so far. Just not impressed enough to want to buy it.
Early 2008 RX 350 AWD
Just got this SUV about 4 weeks ago, and so far it is perfect. None of the noises or rattles that I read about and feared. With the 18 inch wheels, it handles pretty much like a car and not a truck. It also now has plenty of power. Very comfortable, and mileage is around 18-19, which I consider terrific for a new car weighing over 2 tons. So far, I think I made the right decision but it is still very early in the game.
2008 Lexus RX 350 AWD
This is my 3rd SUV and it is definitely the best. My first was a 1980 K5 Blazer and the second was a 1992 Explorer, both bought new. This is also my 3rd Lexus and the build quality and service is why I like this brand. So far this SUV has been a pleasure to drive. It has the Premium Plus pkg., 18 inch 7 spoke wheels, heated seats and rain sensor wipers, towing pkg. Cargo room is a little small behind back seats but fine when back seats are lowered. I plan to use it for hunting, fishing and carrying my dogs as well as domestic uses.