Looking to buy my wife an RX. I have an 07 GX470. Love it, will try to drive it as long as I can. My last sedan was an 09 LS460. Great car, but wasn't crazy about the engine that was evidently designed with a valve train type noise. I digress.

I like buying certified used and driving them till I get tired of them. I don't want to buy another known issue, like the afore mentioned engine noise in an otherwise fabulous car. My preference would be an LX570, but it's a little too big for her. She's 5'3" and I don't want her to have to climb up into it like she has to with the GX. I like the idea of the FSport, but past that have no other preferences.

Love to hear your personal experience with your favorite RX, or issues to watch for.

Thank you in advance

 

Give the 450h model a try. Used prices level out between the 350 and 450h, but you get a better drive train in a Hybrid. To top it off, it saves gas!

 

Yes, X2.

We have a 2013 RX450h since new. Fabulous car. Suspension is tighter than the regular RX350.

We got it with the "F Sport APPEARANCE Package" and NOT the FULL F SPORT since in 2013 the RX450h DID NOT COME with FULL F SPORT.

 

dtaylor, check out this thread from BertL. He did a fantastic summary of changes between the 2012 and 2013 RX (pre and post spindle grill). Title says 450h but most are applicable to the 350 as well. It could help narrow down your selection based on available/discontinued features and options. You've given us limited information about what's important to you. And asking about your favorite RX experience is subjective. Best thing to do is search the forum. Taking a test drive is a given.

Good luck in your search.

 

Agree 100%. With gas around $2.40 a gallon this is the time to buy a hybrid. When gas is at $4 you lose all your bargaining power. One year ago, we bought a certified 2015 RX450h. It was $1,500 more than the RX350's on the lot. We traded in a 2010 RX350. Completely different ride. We averaged 19 mpg with the 350 and 29 with the 450h. A plus, we love the bamboo accent. I own a 2017 ES300h. Wife and I have both said we would never own a non hybrid unless Lexus comes out with an electric vehicle. We drive 15,000 miles a year. Gas at $2.50 a gallon, it will take two years to recoup the $1,500. The extra mileage for us is just a plus.

 

Best is highly subjective for any topic. Given the OP, I'm guessing that the concern is mechnaical issues such as the noise experienced with the LS460 but I'm not aware of anything like that with the RX. The OP definitely needs to provide top concerns, priorities and preferences for relevant feedback. Otherwise people are just going to reply with what they have/prefer which may or may not be in line with what the OP is specifically seeking. We prefer the hybrid RX's as well, previously owning a 400h and currently owning a 450h but I wouldn't just blindly recommend them to everyone.

 

One can apply the rule of averages buying new, but buying used, the vehicle of interest is a unique machine.
The other thing to consider is the process. Buying Certified to me means you are tied to the dealership offering [can be expanded to other dealers].

Visit the dealer and check out the models being offered and match them with the needs and desire. I would suggest adding NX to the mix, specially when there is another larger SUV in the family.

Get a loaner for a day or two to help make up your mind.

Lastly patience to find the right vehicle and then quick decision making when the right vehicle shows up.

Salim

 

honesty. i doubt you will like the rx350.. giving you mentioned you dislike engine noise.. the 350 engine is definitely loud and drone like.

the 450h is def your choice of drivetrain.