2013 LEXUS RX 350 F SPORT REVIEW

2013 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT REVIEW BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

 

A new flavor of Lexus’ most popular models aims to spice things up.  It’s called (Lexus RX 350) F SPORT and here in the RX it translates to a crossover with elevated levels of athleticism and style.

Other than the ES sedan and GX and LX SUVS, every Lexus model can now be ordered in F SPORT form.  Lexus describes these vehicles as being engineered for driving enthusiasts with exclusive performance features and bold styling.  But don’t look to the engine to find the modifications because Lexus has placed the F SPORT focus mainly on chassis enhancements.  And this RX 350 is the only F SPORT model to get its own unique transmission going from a 6-speed in the standard RX to an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters here.  The benefits are trifold – more driver involvement when desired, better acceleration and improved fuel economy.  Rated at 18mpg city/26mpg highway and 21mpg combined, the 2 extra gears translate to a 1mpg improvement in typical driving.  And the RX is one of only 2 F SPORT models that will happily drink regular unleaded.

But the most distinguishing F SPORT feature here is by far the tuned suspension which switches to firmer shocks and springs and eschews traditional fixed bracing of the frame in favor of a unique lateral hydraulic damper system.  This setup connects the left and right sides of the body structure in a way that more intelligently dispenses of vibrations while still tightening the body, leading to better steering feel, sharper handling and improved comfort.  The first 2 goals have certainly been achieved as the exclusive 19” wheels and Dunlop tires with their shorter sidewalls aid in an RX that feels more eager to bite when turned.  There is a palpable newfound hustle here that blesses this upscale grocery getter, giving soccer moms everywhere the chance to one-up their competition.  But if you’re sensitive to a decidedly firmer ride quality which is really pronounced and an exponential increase in road noise, particularly on the highway than this RX isn’t for you.

With a 0-to-60mph time of 7.7-seconds and a ¼-mile run of 15.8, it’ll knock several ticks off the stop watch from a standard RX 350 AWD though the 450h Hybrid is still the lineup’s straight-line performance champ.  The 3.5-liter V6 makes the same 270-horsepower and 248 pound feet of torque and the Active Torque Control all-wheel drive system with a manual locking center differential for more serious grip is standard.

Other F SPORT touches include a sport bumper, mesh design grille, F SPORT badges, and a unique interior design with perforated black leather seats with white holes, contrast stitching, ebony bird’s eye maple trim, a black headliner, F SPORT steering wheel and aluminum pedals.

Priced from $48,245 the F SPORT is the most expensive in the 2013 RX lineup while my tester adds the navigation package with additional features like a blind spot monitor and intuitive parking assist for a total of $52,534.  A cool offering from Lexus for those who want to spice things up without going crazy.