In the latest RX 350 lineup, the base engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4. Earlier model years used a 3.5-liter V6.
To understand the question fully, it helps to know that the RX 350 badge has evolved with design changes and market shifts. While older generations used a traditional V6, the current generation adopts a four-cylinder turbocharged setup for the base RX 350. Lexus also offers hybrid variants—in particular the RX 350h, which pairs a four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motors—and a performance-oriented RX 500h in some markets. Cylinder count isn’t the sole determinant of performance or refinement, as turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrid systems can deliver strong results alongside or even surpassing the older V6 in certain metrics.
Current engine configuration
Engine configurations by generation help illustrate how the RX 350 line-up has changed over time:
- Pre-2023 generations (earlier RX 350): 3.5-liter V6 engine
- 2023–present RX 350: 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4
- 2023–present RX 350h: Hybrid variant using a 2.5-liter inline-4 with electric motors
In summary, today’s RX 350 base model is powered by a four-cylinder turbo engine, while the V6 configuration belongs to older model years. The RX 350h represents the hybrid route within the same generation.
Considerations for buyers
Before evaluating the trade-offs between four- and six-cylinder setups, consider these factors that commonly matter to buyers:
- Performance and feel: A modern four-cylinder turbo can deliver brisk acceleration and strong low-end torque, often rivaling older V6 performance in daily driving.
- Fuel economy: Turbo four-cylinders generally offer better highway efficiency than the older V6, improving overall mpg in real-world use.
- Maintenance and complexity: Turbo systems add complexity (turbochargers, intercoolers, direct injection) that can affect maintenance considerations and potential long-term costs; the V6 is typically simpler in some respects but may have different maintenance needs.
- Hybrid options: If you’re drawn to efficiency and reduced emissions, the RX 350h provides a capable hybrid alternative, while the RX 500h offers higher performance in markets where it’s available.
- Model-year and market variations: Engine availability can differ by region, so always verify the exact configuration for the year and country you’re considering.
Bottom line: In the current Lexus RX 350 lineup, the base model uses a four-cylinder turbo engine, with older models featuring a V6 and the hatch of hybrid variants (like the RX 350h) expanding the powertrain options.
Summary
The RX 350 has shifted from a traditional V6 to a modern four-cylinder turbocharged setup in its current generation, complemented by a hybrid option (RX 350h) and a high-performance hybrid variant in some markets. When shopping, confirm the exact engine specification for the year and region to know whether you’re getting a turbocharged four-cylinder, a V6 from an older era, or a hybrid powertrain.