2014 Lexus RX 350
Changes for the 2014 Lexus RX:
Following a refresh for 2013 that added the Lexus signature spindle-style grille and a sporty F Sport model to the lineup, the 2014 Lexus RX sees minor changes. Siri Eyes Free technology is standard this year, and both the Luxury Package and the F Sport model gain a 115-volt power outlet for the rear seat. The optional Pre-Collision System adds Pre-Brake and Forward Collision Warning systems, and the F Sport model gains an exclusive Ultra White paint color choice.
Model Lineup:
Lexus offers its popular crossover SUV as the RX 350, RX 350 F Sport, and the RX 450h, the latter equipped with a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. Front-wheel drive is standard for the RX 350 and RX 450h, with all-wheel drive optional. An AWD system is standard for the RX 350 F Sport.
Engines and Transmissions:
A 3.5-liter V-6 engine making 270 horsepower is standard for the RX 350 and RX 350 F Sport. In the RX 350, it is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. In the RX 350 F Sport, an 8-speed automatic transmission handles the task of distributing power to all four of the crossover SUV’s wheels. Paddle shifters are included for the RX 350 F Sport.
The RX 450h also employs a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, in this instance paired up with an electric assist motor (two with AWD), a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and regenerative brakes. The combined horsepower rating is 295, yet despite the added oomph the RX 450h delivers better than a 40% improvement in fuel-efficiency.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
Choose the Lexus RX 350, and you can expect to get 21 mpg with front-wheel drive and 20 mpg with AWD, according to the EPA’s combined-driving estimate. The RX 350 F Sport model is rated to return 21 mpg with standard AWD, thanks to its exclusive 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Lexus RX 450h hybrid is rated to get 30 mpg in combined driving. Get the AWD version, and that figure drops to 29 mpg.
Safety Ratings:
Despite achieving identical ratings in individual crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the overall ratings for the RX with front-wheel drive and the RX AWD are different, the former receiving a 4-star rating while the latter gets a 5-star rating.
In the eyes of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the RX gets a “Good” rating in all tests except for the small overlap frontal-impact assessment, which had not been conducted as this summary was written. The IIHS also gives the RX a “Basic” front crash prevention rating.
Technology Highlights:
All RX models are equipped with Safety Connect telematics, which includes one year of free service to features including Automatic Collision Notification, an Emergency Assistance SOS Button, Stolen Vehicle Tracking, and more. Ten airbags also come standard, while options include a Pre-Collision System with Pre-Collision Braking and a Forward Collision Warning System, a Blind Spot Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and more.
