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New Models
DRIVEN: Lexus RX 350 Tries For Sporty
The F-Sport option for the revamped 2013 model adds firmed-up suspension and eight-speed automatic, but it misses the mark.
Restyled and updated for 2013, Lexus RX 350 gets the optional F-Sport package of driving upgrades. (Photo: Lexus)
The Lexus RX 350 crossover is hugely popular, especially in such upscale locales as Scottsdale, Arizona, where every other vehicle seems to be an RX.
Luxury, reliability and a high level of comfort are the main selling points, as the soft-riding wagon trundles along the wide suburban streets and the parking lots of exclusive elementary schools.
Lexis decided to add some sporty flair to its best-selling model, which was somewhat revamped for 2013, by giving it the F-Sport treatment. The optional handling-performance package firms up the suspension considerably for better response, in hopes that enthusiast drivers will be attracted to the RX fold.
But really, that goes against the grain of this elegant people mover, and it makes me wonder why Lexus chose to apply this sophisticated sport package to what’s clearly a plump SUV. This is no roaring Mercedes-Benz AMG performance machine, but more a case of gilding the lily with muscular styling, a stiffer ride and paddle shifters.
I really liked the F-Sport package applied to the GS sedan, which sharpened the already sporty car and brought it to life. RX is the second Lexus to get the F-Sport option, with the LS flagship next up on the list.
Despite the suspension refinements on the RX F-Sport– which includes an innovative lateral damping system tuned to reduce body vibration and twist while enhancing response and cornering – it came across as a heavy, stiff-legged wagon without all-that-much spark. Handling response is certainly improved, though there’s still not much incentive for hustling along back roads or throwing this bulky beast into a curve.
And while drivers like me who are used to gnarly sports cars may not mind a stiff suspension, the typical RX driver is there for the comfort and convenience, not the sporty ride. Most of them would probably object to the buffeting reactions over even mildly rough pavement.
Standard electronic Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management enhances traction and handling control in a seamless fashion without intrusion, remaining one of the best such systems out there. Body sway is very well controlled by both the electronics and the sport suspension.
The only engine choice remains the ultra-smooth 3.5-liter V6 that generates 270 horsepower, which is plenty for regular driving duties but hardly the stuff of driver engagement.
The F-Sport package also includes an eight-speed automatic transmission instead of the six-speed that continues with the rest of the RX models. Designed for quick, aggressive shifts in either automatic or manual mode via paddle shifters, it’s an improvement over the standard transmission although, again, longtime RX drivers would probably find it harsh.
Luxury, reliability and a high level of comfort are the main selling points, as the soft-riding wagon trundles along the wide suburban streets and the parking lots of exclusive elementary schools.
Lexis decided to add some sporty flair to its best-selling model, which was somewhat revamped for 2013, by giving it the F-Sport treatment. The optional handling-performance package firms up the suspension considerably for better response, in hopes that enthusiast drivers will be attracted to the RX fold.
But really, that goes against the grain of this elegant people mover, and it makes me wonder why Lexus chose to apply this sophisticated sport package to what’s clearly a plump SUV. This is no roaring Mercedes-Benz AMG performance machine, but more a case of gilding the lily with muscular styling, a stiffer ride and paddle shifters.
I really liked the F-Sport package applied to the GS sedan, which sharpened the already sporty car and brought it to life. RX is the second Lexus to get the F-Sport option, with the LS flagship next up on the list.
Despite the suspension refinements on the RX F-Sport– which includes an innovative lateral damping system tuned to reduce body vibration and twist while enhancing response and cornering – it came across as a heavy, stiff-legged wagon without all-that-much spark. Handling response is certainly improved, though there’s still not much incentive for hustling along back roads or throwing this bulky beast into a curve.
And while drivers like me who are used to gnarly sports cars may not mind a stiff suspension, the typical RX driver is there for the comfort and convenience, not the sporty ride. Most of them would probably object to the buffeting reactions over even mildly rough pavement.
Standard electronic Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management enhances traction and handling control in a seamless fashion without intrusion, remaining one of the best such systems out there. Body sway is very well controlled by both the electronics and the sport suspension.
The only engine choice remains the ultra-smooth 3.5-liter V6 that generates 270 horsepower, which is plenty for regular driving duties but hardly the stuff of driver engagement.
The F-Sport package also includes an eight-speed automatic transmission instead of the six-speed that continues with the rest of the RX models. Designed for quick, aggressive shifts in either automatic or manual mode via paddle shifters, it’s an improvement over the standard transmission although, again, longtime RX drivers would probably find it harsh.
The Lyonheart K
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