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2018 Lexus RX 350L Review: A Closer Look at the 3-Row Luxury SUV on MotorVero
Lexus RX 350L: A Comprehensive Review of the Luxury Three-Row SUV
Lexus Fills the Three-Row Luxury SUV Gap
For years, Lexus faced a significant gap in its SUV lineup—the absence of a refined, city-friendly three-row model. While the rugged GX 460 and LX 570 offered third-row seating, their body-on-frame construction and powerful V-8 engines positioned them more for off-road adventures than urban practicality. The introduction of the RX 350L and its hybrid counterpart, the RX 450hL, marked Lexus's attempt to address this market need with a more pavement-oriented solution.
The extended-length RX models come at a premium—approximately $4,200 more than the standard RX 350 and $4,725 over the RX 450h. This price difference essentially pays for the additional seating capacity, as much of the first two rows remain identical to the standard RX. But does this stretched version deliver where it matters most? Our comprehensive review examines every aspect of this luxury three-row contender.
Dimensions & Space: The Third-Row Reality
The RX 350L stretches 4.4 inches longer than the standard RX while maintaining the same wheelbase and width. This extra length primarily benefits the third-row area, but comes with some compromises:
- Second-row legroom decreases from 38 inches to 30.9 inches on paper, though the sliding seat mechanism allows for practical adjustment
- Third-row legroom measures just 23.5 inches—significantly less than competitors
- Headroom proves inadequate for most adults, forcing occupants to tilt their heads
- Visibility suffers due to the small rear window design
In real-world testing, even average-sized adults (5'4" to 5'9") found the third row uncomfortable for anything beyond very short trips. The space might work for small children, but the single child seat tether and absence of Latch anchors limit its family-friendliness.
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Measurement | RX 350L | RX 350 |
---|---|---|
Overall Length | 196.9 in | 192.5 in |
Second-row Legroom | 30.9 in | 38.0 in |
Third-row Legroom | 23.5 in | N/A |
Cargo Space (seats up) | 7.5 cu ft | 18.4 cu ft |
The optional captain's chairs (standard on hybrid models) improve third-row access slightly, but can't compensate for the fundamental space limitations. When the third row is in use, cargo capacity shrinks to just 7.5 cubic feet—enough for a few grocery bags but little else.
Interior Quality & Technology
While the third row disappoints, the RX 350L maintains Lexus's reputation for exceptional cabin quality:
Premium Materials & Comfort
- Standard leather upholstery (versus faux leather in base RX)
- Excellent noise insulation for a serene driving experience
- Comfortable front seats with ample adjustment
- Available Noble Brown color scheme adds sophistication
Technology & Controls
The RX 350L inherits Lexus's controversial Remote Touch interface—a mouselike controller that proves frustrating to use while driving. The available 12.3-inch display offers crisp graphics but suffers from:
- Overly complex menu structures
- Lack of touchscreen capability
- Slow response times when navigating systems
This system remains a notable weak point compared to more intuitive interfaces from German rivals or even domestic luxury brands.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
The RX 350L prioritizes comfort over sportiness, with driving characteristics that emphasize refinement:
Powertrain Options
- RX 350L: 3.5L V-6 (290 hp) with 8-speed automatic (FWD or AWD)
- RX 450hL: 3.5L V-6 hybrid (308 hp combined) with CVT (AWD only)
Acceleration proves adequate but not thrilling—consistent with the vehicle's luxury-oriented mission. The hybrid version delivers significantly better fuel economy (29 mpg combined vs. 21-22 mpg for gas models) at the cost of $3,000-$4,000 premium.
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Ride & Handling
The RX 350L excels at:
- Absorbing road imperfections smoothly
- Maintaining cabin quietness
- Providing stable highway cruising
However, enthusiasts will notice:
- Pronounced body roll in corners
- Vague steering feel
- Reluctance to change direction quickly
Safety Features & Ratings
Lexus equips the RX 350L with an impressive array of standard safety technology:
Lexus Safety System+ Includes:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Intelligent high beams
- Dynamic radar cruise control
- 10 years of Safety Connect emergency services
Available upgrades include:
- 360-degree camera system
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic braking
- Parking sensors
- LED cornering lamps
While these systems generally work well, the lane keeping assist tends to "ping-pong" between lane markers rather than maintaining true center position.
Competitive Landscape
The RX 350L faces stiff competition in the three-row luxury SUV segment:
Model | Third-row Legroom | Base Price | Notable Advantages |
---|---|---|---|
Lexus RX 350L | 23.5 in | $48,665 | Lexus reliability, hybrid option |
Audi Q7 | 29.2 in | $58,500 | Superior tech, better handling |
Acura MDX | 28.1 in | $48,900 | More spacious, better value |
Infiniti QX60 | 30.8 in | $48,100 | Most spacious third row |
While competitors offer more usable third rows, the RX 350L maintains advantages in predicted reliability and hybrid efficiency. However, buyers prioritizing passenger comfort may find better options elsewhere.
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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the RX 350L?
The RX 350L presents a mixed proposition. On one hand, it brings Lexus's renowned build quality, smooth ride, and hybrid efficiency to the three-row segment. On the other, its cramped third row undermines its core purpose.
Consider the RX 350L if you:
- Prize Lexus reliability and resale value
- Need third-row seating only for occasional use
- Prefer the RX's styling over more boxy competitors
- Want the hybrid efficiency of the 450hL
Look elsewhere if you:
- Regularly transport more than five passengers
- Need legitimate adult-sized third-row space
- Prioritize engaging driving dynamics
- Want the latest infotainment technology
Ultimately, the RX 350L feels like a compromise solution. Lexus would better serve customers by developing a dedicated three-row platform rather than stretching an existing two-row design. For now, buyers needing true three-row capability in a luxury package should cross-shop the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, or wait for Lexus's upcoming TX model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lexus RX 350L a good family SUV?
The RX 350L works best for families with small children who only occasionally need third-row seating. The cramped third row and limited cargo space make it less ideal than competitors for larger families or those needing regular seven-passenger capacity.
How does the RX 450hL hybrid compare to the gas model?
The RX 450hL offers significantly better fuel economy (29 mpg combined vs. 21-22 mpg) but comes at a $3,000-$4,000 premium. Performance is similar, with the hybrid feeling slightly more responsive at low speeds thanks to electric motor assistance.
What are the main competitors to the RX 350L?
Key competitors include the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, and Volvo XC90. All offer more spacious third rows, though some sacrifice the Lexus's predicted reliability or hybrid options.
Is the RX 350L worth the premium over the standard RX?
Only if you absolutely need the occasional third-row seating. The standard RX offers more second-row comfort and cargo space for most buyers' needs at a lower price point.
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Last Updated On Jun, 23-2025