2021 Lexus RX 350L
| MSRP | $57,175 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $56,187 |
2021 Lexus RX 350L Review
- Impeccable cabin finished with top-quality materials
- Advanced safety features come standard
- Excellent ride and seat comfort
- Third-row space is tight for anyone other than small kids
- Touchpad controller is distracting to use
- Less overall cargo capacity than competitors
- Hard to see out of
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard for 2021
- Wireless smartphone charging now available
- Part of the fourth RX generation introduced for 2016
The 2021 Lexus RX 350L is a midsize crossover identical to the RX 350 except for one key differentiator: The RX 350L has a stretched wheelbase and adds a third row of seating. That means it has many of the RX 350's strengths — namely, that model's penchant for passenger and ride comfort. It also offers surprisingly nimble handling for such a big vehicle, and it's especially shocking since this elongated version isn't available with the RX 350's performance-minded F Sport package. Once you consider its relatively low cost for the class, the RX 350L makes a lot of sense on paper.
But the Lexus RX 350L doesn't make the most of its extended wheelbase. Many purpose-built three-row competitors have a more spacious back seat, and there's little cargo room behind the RX's third row. And, like with the standard RX 350, you have to spec the L just right. If you don't opt for the Navigation package, for instance, you'll be stuck with a small central display without touchscreen capability. You'll instead have to use a trackpad controller, and this combination makes for one of our least favorite infotainment systems on the market. Though pricier, the RX's rivals generally do not ask you to compromise this much or pay such close attention to the options list.
Our verdict | |
The RX 350L is a slightly larger (and pricier) RX 350, with a third-row seat suitable for occasional use only. Compared to similarly priced three-row SUVs, it simply can't compete in performance, space or utility. If you're a fan of the RX and looking for one with more cargo space, the 350L could still work. Otherwise there are better three-row options. | |
How does the RX 350L drive? | |
The RX 350L feels good on the road, with solid pickup, easy steering, smooth stops and competent handling. Our instrumented test numbers tell their own story, though, and the RX trails many of its competitors by at least a small margin in acceleration, braking performance and handling grip. While we can overlook the numbers, we noticed an occasional delay between asking for power and the transmission response. This phenomenon is a bit inconsistent, but it could be the biggest annoyance day to day if it becomes a common occurrence. | |
How comfortable is the RX 350L? | |
Comfort is where the RX excels, but only for those seated in the first two rows. The front seats are wide and accommodating, with a contoured back that benefits from four-way lumbar adjustment. The second-row seats are pretty comfy as long you don't have to make sacrifices for anyone sitting in the tiny third row. The RX 350L's suspension takes the edges off all bumps around town, even the big ones. The cabin is also well insulated from traffic and wind noise. You won't have to raise your voice to have a conversation. The one oddity is the rear-seating climate control panel that's located on one side of the third row of seats. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The interior feels luxurious and roomy if you leave the third-row seats stowed. Raise the third row, however, and things go south. The third row is very cramped, and room in the second row can suffer because you'll likely have to slide the seats up to use the third row. It's a poor showing in the three-row segment. Visibility can be an issue in parking lot scenarios, and you could be playing a guessing game without the optional 360-degree camera. We appreciate the number of clearly labeled buttons around the cabin. You still have to use the infotainment a fair amount to access certain controls, but Lexus has improved it this year, replacing the old joystick-style controller with a touchpad and adding a touchscreen interface. The location of the touchscreen makes it a bit of a reach for anyone, but it's better than not having that functionality. | |
How’s the tech? | |
Lexus' Mark Levinson stereos are always a high point, and the big infotainment screen is crisp and appealing. Lexus' Enform app has a handful of useful features, but it only integrates a limited selection of third-party apps. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration operates fine for the most part, though some of our Android users experienced issues with some apps missing and sometimes had no functionality at all. Charging options are available for the first two rows, with a generous six USBs total. The driver aids mostly work well, especially adaptive cruise, which will operate in stop-and-go traffic. Most other systems are similarly strong, but the lane keeping assist offers very little intervention and can lose sight of lane markers. | |
How’s the storage? | |
For the size gained in its growth spurt, the L version of the RX reaps few benefits in utility. The biggest gains come with the third row folded, netting a total of 23 cubic feet of cargo space, but in all configurations the Lexus falls far short of three-row competitors. It does much better on small-item storage. There are clever little cubbies for the driver and front passenger, with plenty of options for not just storing but also organizing your stuff. The child safety seat anchors in the second row are easily accessible, but you might have trouble fitting bulkier rear-facing car seats if you have the second row forward to allow for use of the third. And if you plan to do any towing, 3,500 pounds is the limit. It's far from a class-leading figure, but it's more than enough for light towing. | |
How’s the fuel economy? | |
We tested the front-wheel-drive RX 350L, which gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg (19 city/26 highway). That's marginally better than average for a three-row crossover SUV. All-wheel-drive RX 350Ls take a 1 mpg hit across the board but still do better than average. Our test RX 350L fell a bit short on our 115-mile real-world evaluation route, averaging 21.6 mpg. | |
Is the RX 350L a good value? | |
The RX feels solidly put together, and though there are hard plastics around, you're unlikely to interact with them. Touch points are covered with high-quality materials that really lend a luxury feel. Lexus put some thought into this interior. Dollar for dollar, the RX 350L is priced pretty competitively in the segment, but the idea of paying a premium for little extra usability over the regular RX is a bit galling. You're better off spending your money elsewhere since most midsize three-row competitors are quicker, roomier and more useful. | |
Wildcard | |
Lexus has taken a stylish and intriguing two-row midsize SUV and turned it into a three-row also-ran. It comes up short in a segment of strong contenders offering more performance, fun and practicality. That said, it's still an attractive and comfortable SUV that many people will flock to for those qualities alone. | |
Which RX 350L does Edmunds recommend?
Lexus RX 350L models
The 2021 Lexus RX 350L is a three-row midsize crossover sold in a single trim level. It's powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower, 263 lb-ft) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. The RX 350L comes standard with seven-passenger seating, though the second-row bench can be switched out for captain's chairs, which reduces seating to six.
2021 Lexus RX 350L pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2021 Lexus RX 350L video
2020 Lexus RX First Look
NOTE: This video is about the 2020 Lexus RX 350L, but since the 2021 Lexus RX 350L is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $49,400
- MPG & Fuel
- 18 City / 25 Hwy / 21 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.2 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 7 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6300 rpm
- Torque: 263 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 196.9 in. / Height: 67.3 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 74.6 in.
- Curb Weight: 4619 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 7.5 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite RX 350L safety features:
- Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
- Bundles several standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with automatic braking, and lane keeping assist.
- Lexus Enform Safety Connect
- Automatically alerts emergency services in the event of a crash or distress. Also includes a stolen vehicle locator.
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Uses cameras to determine your position in a lane when using adaptive cruise control. Makes small steering corrections to keep the RX centered in its lane.
Lexus RX 350L vs. the competition
2021 Lexus RX 350L
2021 Cadillac XT6
Lexus RX 350L vs. Cadillac XT6
The Cadillac XT6 emerges as the RX's most direct rival since the RX 350L's primary competitors — that would be the Acura MDX and the Infiniti QX60 — are sitting on the bench for the 2021 model year. Both the Cadillac and the Lexus undercut European alternatives by thousands of dollars, providing strong value for the money. That said, the Lexus is even more well equipped, and the XT6 doesn't really offer anything to justify its higher price.
Lexus RX 350L vs. Lincoln Aviator
The Lincoln Aviator is more expensive than the RX 350L — especially once you start adding features to the Lincoln that are standard on the Lexus. But if you can swing the higher price tag, we think the Lincoln is the better buy. Its standard turbocharged V6 is significantly more powerful than the RX motor, the infotainment system is easier to use, and to our eyes, the interior design is more elegant. Lincoln has been on a roll recently, and its prowess shines through in the Aviator.
Lexus RX 350L vs. Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is our favorite SUV in the class, and though it's a bit pricier than the RX 350L, it's actually more affordable and practical than other like-minded European crossovers. The Q7 scores high marks for its stylish cabin, powerful V6, and wealth of exotic options. If you have wiggle room in your budget, the Q7 is undoubtedly the superior vehicle.
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FAQ
Is the Lexus RX 350L a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Lexus RX 350L?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Lexus RX 350L:
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard for 2021
- Wireless smartphone charging now available
- Part of the fourth RX generation introduced for 2016
Is the Lexus RX 350L reliable?
Is the 2021 Lexus RX 350L a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Lexus RX 350L?
The least-expensive 2021 Lexus RX 350L is the 2021 Lexus RX 350L 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $48,000.
Other versions include:
- 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,000
- 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $49,400
- Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $55,400
- Luxury 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $54,000