Faculty

Hello everyone!

First off, I would like to say I am glad there is such a large support forum for all things Lexus RX-350, 3rd Generation. I have already learned a lot from the existing years of threads within this forum.

Now, onto the reason for this thread! I am currently in the market for a new vehicle (or rather, new to me), specifically an SUV, and after a lot of research I have decided that I want to go with Lexus for the fact that is is one of the best brands for reliability and holding it's value. I also like all the features that come standard with pretty much every Lexus. My dilemma is that I want to get a car that is going to be relatively repair-free while being somewhat aesthetic and within my budget. Below I will list the pros and cons I have found between the two different years.

2010-2012 RX 350
Background: I have found anywhere from $11,000 to $15,000 for most of the vehicles for sale in my area. The average price I would say would be $12,500. They range anywhere from 100K to 150k+ miles.

Pros: Cheaper by $4,500.

Cons: They do not come standard with the infotainment (radio/NAV) system like their 2013 counterparts or the daytime LED running lights and they have unsightly front grill (that I would replace). Older with possibly more mechanical problems.

2013 RX 350
Background: I have found these starting at $17,000 to $20,000+. Most of these are between 80k-120k miles. Since this model comes standard with all of the things I want, I would be fine with getting one of the cheapest ones available, at around $17,000.

Pros: Standard infotainment system and LED running lights, updated front bumper & grill. Newer and thus less mechanical problems (perceived).

Cons: Pricier at $4,500 more


Questions for you:

With that being said, do you think that I could replace the infotainment system in a 2010 to get the updated 2013 version, or even get an aftermarket system with Apple Play? Also, how reliable are these cars? Should I really be aiming for lower miles, thus aiming for a the 2013?

Thanks for the help everyone! It is much appreciated!
- Faculty

Nauticalx

they're all reliable. you didnt mention your budget. it's a ton of vehicle for the money, buy the best one you can afford and enjoy it. you are saving loads off a new one. enjoy!

roadbike56

If you go with 2013, getting the optional Blind Spot Monitoring system (standard in 2014) is worth it in my opinion.
On any 3rd gen, getting the cooled seat option is a waste of money. If you're paying more for a car to get that option, don't. Can't comment on heated seats because in NC we've used heated seats about 3 times in 2 years. As for reliability, so far our 3rd gen, a 2014 is "OK", not great, but not terrible. The first owner had a problem with one of the wheels. We had a blown variable valve timing module on the same car replaced under certified Lexus warranty.
On a strictly personal note, I liked the front grill treatment on the 2013 to 2015 RX. That's why we didn't consider a 2012.

alisher

Also you get electrically folding mirrors, redesigned steering wheel and headlights, LED DRL, red rear tail lights starting from 2013. Also starting from 2015 LED foglights. And I guess starting from 2014 some of them can have bamboo wood trim.

JerseyJim

I have a late model '15 built in Sept. 2015 and I can confirm that it does NOT have the LED fog lights. It does have the Blind Spot Monitor and folding side mirrors.

Breakers

I have a 2015 built in 2014 and it has the xenon lights and led fog lights.

Looks like it’s part of the ‘comfort package’

- Jeff

JerseyJim

Yes, I have the Premium Package and not the Comfort Package. I installed LED fog lights as well as LED headlights and High Beams. They made a big difference.