SpaceCadet

Does the RX 350 have the auto stop/start function where the engine turns off when braking?

JDR76

The RX350 does not, only the RX450h does. I would not be surprised to see it added though, as the '17 Highlander will be getting the same engine as the RX350 and will come with stop/start.

aznkorboi

I wondered this too and everyone said it's pointless. I must say that in the mercedes it doesn't make that big of a difference and I can't know whether the constant on/off of something is bad for the engine in the long run.

Curryolla

From what I can gather, Lexus USA believes Start-Stop in non-hybrid application is unrefined and does not include it for that reason. If you notice, most models overseas with the 2.0L turbo (NX, IS, GS, RC, RX etc.) have start-stop. Personally, I've never found a system that works well, but I'd be more than happy to deal with it for the fuel economy benefit.

The fact that the 2017 Highlander has it is interesting, but no surprise given the new Honda Pilot has it too. I think Acura has also started adding start-stop along with the Germans and Americans of course.

Yet another reason to pick the hybrid!

FLYCT

My 2016 Ford F-150 with the 2.7 Turbo has Start/Stop. It is annoying sometimes. You really notice it when you try to turn the wheel while stopped. It won't turn because power steering pump is engine driven. The other thing that is noticed is that the AC blower slows down and compressor quits when engine is stopped. I don't know how Toyota handles AC and power steering with Start/Stop engines.

My RX450h and my Nissan Leaf use electric power steering and all electric AC so its not a problem at lights.

bootman

Thank god it doesn't have this.

FLYCT

The F-150 has a dash button that can disable start/stop but you must disable it every time you start the car or it reverts back.

dchar

I hate start/stop in non-hybrid cars. Not only is there a slight delay when trying to get going again, but the AC compressor turns off and it gets warm very quickly. If Lexus decides to add this feature on future cars, I hope they will have a defeat button that stays engaged.