Considering a 2016, a few questions

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Feb 1, 2020 | 04:24 AM

Doublebase

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From: New Hampshire

Considering a 2016, a few questions

My wife is in need of a newer SUV. We are looking at a few different ones (she’s partial to the Mazda CX-9) I’d prefer the RX350.

I love the interior and look of the RX350, but with it being relatively “new” I have some questions on reliability, things to look out for/potential trouble spots. I understand the engine is direct injection, anyone have issues with oil consumption or misfires yet?

And how is the transmission? Is it an 8 speed? Shifting problems? Anything? I had an 8 speed in my LS460 and loved the thing.

Oh, and does it require super unleaded fuel or regular? And is it the same engine that’s in the Highlander?

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Feb 1, 2020 | 11:37 AM

ewkid

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From: NJ

The RX350 has the 2GR-FKS V6. It is direct and port injected so you won't have the valve carbon build up problem of a traditional direct injected engine.
2016 was the first year for the 8speed. There are complaints here about it not being as smooth as previous generations 6speed. Be sure to read the threads about the transmission as well as the vibration from the exhaust. RX350 takes regular unleaded, the hybrid wants super but also seems to be fine if ran on regular.

I just bought a 2016 RX450h. I recommend that you test drive both. I preferred the way that the hybrid drove and since i mostly drive city I appreciate the extra MPG.

Feb 1, 2020 | 11:42 AM

MODale

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From: MO

We have 2016 purchased used last year with 43,000 miles on it. We’re around 56,000 now. Had the transmission and exhaust TSBs performed after we got it to take care of the hesitation and droning issues. I’m really happy with the shifting since that was done. Much smoother now. It is an 8 speed. All else has been good. We use regular gas. The engine is direct injection with 295 hp compared to a 2016 Highlander with 270 hp. Otherwise basically the same engine. We usually go to our local Toyota dealer for services other than warranty.

Feb 1, 2020 | 12:19 PM

SFFD785

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Nothing to worry about, it's still a Lexus. We bought a 16 last year as well for a killer deal. AWD with 43k miles, and with a few months of warranty remaining. The good news is the powertrain warranty is 6yrs 70k, so the important items are covered. So far the car has been pretty much solid outside of two TSBs. We had the rear trailing arm squeak over bumps, took two visits to have this addressed. Also the ac TSB with the gurgling sound. Luckily we were still within the warranty and both updates were free. The transmission has been solid, no hesitation - a little touchy though. As for the exhaust drone, I'm not totally sure what that sounds like, but so far we haven't been bothered by anything. Would I do it again, yes. It's an amazing car and quite. I'ver driven newer RX loaners that did not feel quite right and rattled. My advice is to take your time and find the lowest mileage in your budget.

Feb 1, 2020 | 09:02 PM

Doublebase

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Could to know about the direct injection/port injection combination. That’s excellent.

Feb 2, 2020 | 05:24 AM

Freds430

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Obviously everyone has a different budget and different taste but my $.02. Mazda and Lexus are close to apples and oranges as a comparison. Besides the label of Lexus as a luxury brand and Mazda is not much more importantly however is Lexus #1 in reliability for eight years in a row by J D Power and #1 by Consumer Reports. Mazda is 21 out of 31. Lexus is #1 in customer satisfaction. Lexus is #1 in brand loyalty in the luxury class and Mazda is #12 out of 20 in the non luxury class. Lexus is #1 in lowest depreciation and Mazda was 12th. Lexus was #3 in lowest maintenance cost and Mazda was #7. Lexus was by far the lowest among the luxury cars.

Feb 2, 2020 | 06:04 AM

Doublebase

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From: New Hampshire

Quote:

Originally Posted by Freds430

Interesting. Normally I wouldn’t even consider a Mazda, but the new cx9 has a beautiful interior and good reviews with their torquey 2.5 turbo four. The grill is aggressive and overall pretty nice.

I like the RX350 better...better looking interior (in my opinion). Kind of like fighter pilot snugness to it. Like the exterior better too. I have test drove the newer highlanders and I wasn’t impressed with the responsiveness/power. Seemed to be tuned down or something. Reading here it seems the RX350 is given a smidge more horsepower.

Price. I can probably get into a 2016 RX350 for $28,000-$35,000. Cx9 for $22,000ish. Yeah I’d rather spend less - my wife isn’t exactly “user friendly” with her vehicles. Door dings, dents, scratches are all part her vehicle’s mysterious daily life. She never knows how any of them got there. It’s a mystery.