As you step into the world of luxury SUVs, the Lexus RX is a familiar sight, but what about the alternatives that can offer a similar blend of style, comfort, and performance? Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a sleek, high-end vehicle, surrounded by premium materials and advanced tech features. If you’re looking for a change of pace, you’ll want to venture into the Genesis GV80, Acura MDX, and other rivals that are vying for your attention. But which one will ultimately win you over?
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Key Takeaways
- The Genesis GV80, Acura MDX, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class are luxury SUVs that compete with the Lexus RX 350 in terms of design and features.
- The BMW X5 and Audi Q7 offer sporty designs, while the Volvo XC90 provides a fresh take on luxury and driving dynamics.
- The Lexus RX 350 offers hybrid options, unlike the Genesis GV80 and Acura MDX, but is outpowered by some rivals like the BMW X5.
- The Lexus RX 350’s starting price is comparable to the Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, and Volvo XC90, but is outpriced by the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne.
- The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 provide great driving experiences and standard tech features like CarPlay and Android Auto, making them similar to the Lexus RX 350.
Lexus RX 350 Overview and Hybrid Options
The 2023 Lexus RX 350 marks a significant departure from its predecessors, boasting a slew of standard features and hybrid options that cater to diverse driving requirements.
You’ll appreciate the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and advanced safety features like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams.
The RX 350 also offers hybrid options, allowing you to choose the powertrain that suits your needs.
With a turbocharged inline-4 replacing the V6 engine, this new generation promises improved performance and efficiency, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a comfortable, feature-packed ride with a hybrid system that’s ready to plunge into the market or take the leap into the world of hybrid vehicles.
Genesis GV80: A Strong Competitor
You’ll find the Genesis GV80 is a strong competitor to the Lexus RX 350, with a similar starting price range of $51,295 to $78,295.
Its performance options are also remarkable, with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 300 horsepower.
Additionally, the GV80 boasts top safety ratings, making it a compelling alternative to the Lexus RX 350.
Similar Starting Price
When shopping for a luxury SUV, one of the primary considerations is often the starting price.
You’ll find the Genesis GV80, a competitor to the Lexus RX, has a similar starting price range of $51,295 to $78,295. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a luxurious ride without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the GV80’s fuel economy of 21/25 mpg is reasonable, considering its powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. While it may not offer a hybrid option, its starting price and fuel economy make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.
Great Performance Options
With its powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, the Genesis GV80 delivers a robust 300 horsepower, making it a strong competitor to the Lexus RX in terms of performance.
You’ll experience smooth acceleration and responsive handling, making it a great option for those who prioritize driving dynamics.
While it may not offer a hybrid option like the Lexus RX, the GV80’s performance is on par, making it a viable alternative.
Additionally, the lack of sport performance packages, like the F Sport Performance, might be a drawback for some buyers, but its overall performance capabilities make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.
Top Safety Ratings
The Genesis GV80 earns top safety ratings, making it a strong competitor to the Lexus RX in this critical aspect of luxury SUV ownership.
You’ll be protected with a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.
The GV80’s advanced safety features include forward collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, among others.
With these features, you can drive with confidence, knowing you’re well-protected on the road.
Acura MDX: Luxury and Performance
You’ll find the Acura MDX packs a punch in terms of luxury tech features, with a price range similar to the Lexus RX 350.
However, what sets it apart is its more engaging driving experience, making it a great option for those who crave performance.
Particularly, the MDX doesn’t offer a hybrid option, but its powerful engine choices, including a 355-horsepower turbocharged V6, more than make up for it.
Luxury Tech Features
Stepping into the Acura MDX, you’re immediately surrounded by a wealth of luxury tech features designed to augment your driving experience.
The 10.2-inch HD center display screen provides access to navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.
Available features like a 360-degree camera system and head-up display further boost the luxury SUV experience.
The available Advanced Package adds a surround-view camera system, parking sensor system, and remote engine start system with climate control.
With these advanced features, you’ll feel like you’re driving in a high-tech command center.
More Fun to Drive
Behind the wheel of the Acura MDX, you’re in for a treat: a driving experience that’s more engaging and fun than the Lexus RX. With its turbocharged V6 engine producing 355 horsepower, the MDX Type S model offers a more exhilarating drive. Compared to the Lexus RX, the MDX has more agile handling, making it perfect for winding roads.
| Feature | Acura MDX | Lexus RX |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 | 2.5-liter inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 355 | 295 |
| Suspension | Sport-tuned adaptive dampers | Standard dampers |
| Steering | Quicker steering ratio | Standard steering ratio |
| Wheels | 21-inch wheels | 18-inch wheels |
The MDX’s unique suspension tuning and sport-tuned adaptive dampers contribute to its more dynamic and responsive handling. With a starting price of $49,195, the Acura MDX offers a more exciting drive without breaking the bank.
No Hybrid Option
While the Acura MDX impresses with its exhilarating performance, it falls short in one key area: hybrid options.
Unlike the Lexus RX 350, the MDX doesn’t offer a hybrid model, which may be a drawback for eco-conscious buyers seeking improved fuel efficiency. This omission might be a deal-breaker for you if you prioritize environmental sustainability and lower fuel costs.
- Lower fuel efficiency: Without a hybrid powertrain, the MDX’s fuel economy suffers, which may increase your fuel costs in the long run.
- Limited eco-friendliness: The absence of a hybrid model means the MDX isn’t as environmentally friendly as its competitors, which may be a concern for buyers with green sensibilities.
- Narrower appeal: The lack of a hybrid option may limit the MDX’s appeal to buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Tons of Options
You’ll find the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class stands out in the luxury SUV market due to its vast array of options, making it a highly competitive choice for buyers.
With a starting price of $57,200 to $81,200, you can choose from various trims, each offering distinct features and performance capabilities.
The GLE-Class boasts engines ranging from a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 to a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 255 to 483 horsepower.
Its balance of power and efficiency, with a city/highway fuel economy of 17/22 mpg, makes it suitable for daily driving and long road trips.
BMW X5: Top of Its Class
You’ll find that the BMW X5 is an expensive luxury option, with a starting price range of $61,595 to $84,095, making it a more premium choice compared to the Lexus RX 350.
However, its top performance options, including a plug-in hybrid and a twin-turbo V-8 engine, make it a standout in its class.
With its impressive performance capabilities and luxurious features, the BMW X5 is clearly one of the best in its class.
Expensive Luxury Option
The BMW X5 stands at the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, boasting a price tag to match its exceptional performance and premium features.
As a midsize luxury SUV, it’s clear that you’re getting what you pay for. With a starting price range of $61,595 to $84,095, the X5 is an investment.
Here are some key features that justify the cost:
- Powerful Engine Options: Choose from a straight-six engine producing 335 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid with a combined 389 horsepower, or a twin-turbo V-8 engine generating 523 horsepower.
- Impressive Towing Capacity: The X5 can tow up to 7,700 pounds, making it a reliable choice for those who need to haul heavy loads.
- Performance Hybrid Option: The X5 xDrive45e offers a performance hybrid experience, blending power and efficiency.
Top Performance Options
As BMW’s flagship luxury SUV, the X5 boasts an impressive array of engine options that set it apart from its competitors.
You’ll find the xDrive40i, packing a 335-horsepower straight-six engine, and the M50i, which releases a whopping 523 horsepower from its twin-turbo V-8 engine.
The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged inline-6 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 389 horsepower.
With a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds, the X5 is perfect for those who need to haul trailers or boats, making it a top performance option in the luxury SUV class.
Best in Its Class
Packing a punch with its impressive engine lineup, the BMW X5 stands out as a top-tier luxury SUV, boasting exceptional performance capabilities that set it apart from its competitors, including the Lexus RX 350.
You’ll find three key features that make it top of its class:
- Powerful engine options: The X5 offers a range of engines, including a plug-in hybrid, producing up to 523 horsepower in the high-performance M50i model.
- Luxurious features: Its high-end interior and advanced tech features make it a top contender in the luxury SUV market.
- Exceptional performance: With its exceptional acceleration and handling, the X5 outperforms many of its competitors, solidifying its position as a top-tier luxury SUV.
Audi Q7: Great Overall Driving Experience
You’ll feel confident behind the wheel of the Audi Q7, thanks to its exceptional driving dynamics. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, making it perfect for daily driving. With a range of engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, you’ll have plenty of power to get you where you need to go.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo I4 | 261 hp | 273 lb-ft |
| 3.0L Turbo V6 | 329 hp | 369 lb-ft |
| 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 500 hp | 568 lb-ft |
The Q7’s interior is upscale, with premium materials, comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, and ample cargo space, with up to 72.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity.
Volvo XC90: Proper Luxury
The Volvo XC90 offers a fresh take on luxury, building upon the driving dynamics established by the Audi Q7.
As a luxury SUV, it provides a more eco-friendly alternative to the Lexus RX 350 with its plug-in hybrid option. You’ll appreciate its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, ensuring a high level of safety for its occupants.
Three key features to weigh:
- Competitive Pricing: With a starting price of $51,995, the XC90 is a competitively priced option in the luxury SUV market.
- Luxurious Interior: The XC90 boasts a more premium feel with its luxurious interior materials, including real wood trim and available massage seats.
- Powerful Engine: The XC90’s V6 engine provides similar power to the Lexus RX 350, but with a slightly louder gas engine.
Porsche Cayenne: Porsche-Quality Engine Performance
With its reputation for exceptional performance, the Porsche Cayenne is an attractive alternative to the Lexus RX for those who crave a more dynamic driving experience.
You’ll appreciate the Porsche-quality engine performance, with options like the twin-turbo V8 engine producing 523 horsepower in the M50i trim.
Alternatively, the plug-in hybrid combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor for a combined 455 horsepower.
With its impressive 0-60mph time of just 3.5 seconds, the Cayenne delivers speed and agility, making it a great choice for those who prioritize performance.
Design Comparison of the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
When comparing the design of the Lexus RX to its similar cars, you’ll notice distinct differences in luxury exterior design, from the angular lines of the Genesis GV80 to the more curved roofline of the BMW X5.
Inside, you’ll find varying degrees of interior space, with some models offering more room than others.
Unique feature offerings, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class’s prominent grille, also set these cars apart from the Lexus RX.
Luxury Exterior Design
Luxury exterior design is where these premium SUVs truly shine, and you’ll be spoiled for choice among the Lexus RX’s competitors.
With sleek lines, refined curves, and advanced features, each model boasts its own unique style.
- The Genesis GV80 offers a bold, athletic stance, while the Acura MDX features a more aggressive, angular design.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class boasts a sophisticated, elegant appearance, complete with a panoramic sunroof to let in natural light.
- The BMW X5 and Audi Q7 both offer sporty, dynamic designs, with the X5’s iconic kidney grilles and the Q7’s striking singleframe grille.
Interior Space Comparison
You step inside these premium SUVs, and the interior space comparison reveals distinct strengths and weaknesses among the Lexus RX and its competitors. While the Lexus RX has a significant cargo advantage behind the second row, the Toyota Crown Signia leads in maximum cargo capacity.
| Model | Leg Room (in) | Cargo Capacity (cu ft) | Split-Folding Rear Seats | Heated Back Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX | 41.1 | 12.2 | 40/20/40 | – |
| Toyota Crown Signia | 40.9 | 15.5 | 60/40 | + |
The center console design and premium materials also differ between the two models. Overall, the interior space comparison highlights the trade-offs between passenger comfort and cargo versatility in these luxury SUVs.
Unique Feature Offerings
The design comparison of the Lexus RX and similar cars reveals a varied range of unique feature offerings, each tailored to cater to distinct driving preferences and lifestyles.
You’ll notice that each model offers something different.
- The Genesis GV80 stands out with its advanced safety features, including a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class boasts a head-up display, providing critical information without distracting you from the road.
- The BMW X5 takes it a step further with its available gesture controls, allowing you to adjust settings with hand movements.
Practicality Comparison of the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
When comparing the practicality of the Lexus RX to its similar counterparts, a few key differences emerge.
You’ll notice the RX has a significant cargo space advantage behind the second row, with 16 cubic feet compared to the Toyota Crown Signia’s 15.1 cubic feet.
However, the Crown Signia takes the lead in maximum cargo capacity. Leg room is nearly identical, with the RX having a tiny advantage.
The Crown Signia stands out with standard heated back seats, while the RX offers 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats and a spare tire, features not found in the Crown.
Price Comparison of the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
Five luxury SUVs rival the Lexus RX 350 in terms of pricing, with the Genesis GV80 matching its starting price of around $51,295.
You’ll find similar price ranges with the Acura MDX, starting at $49,195, and the Volvo XC90, starting at $51,995.
Three key price comparisons are worth examining:
- Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: $57,200 – $81,200 (slightly higher than the Lexus RX)
- BMW X5: $61,595 – $84,095 (one of the more expensive options)
- Audi Q7: $58,695 – $95,590 (a wide price range)
These luxury SUVs offer varying price points, so it’s essential to research and weigh to find the best fit for your budget.
Features Comparison of the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
Luxury SUV buyers seeking a feature-rich ride often compare the Lexus RX 350 to its rivals.
You’ll find similar features in competitors like the Genesis GV80 and Acura MDX, but they lack hybrid options and have smaller third-row seating.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and BMW X5 offer more luxurious features, but at a higher price point.
The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 provide great driving experiences and standard tech features like CarPlay and Android Auto, but have limited cargo space.
The Lexus RX 350’s features, including blind spot monitoring, are standard or optional in its competitors, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.
Engine Comparison of the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
You’ve evaluated the feature sets of the Lexus RX 350 and its competitors, but now it’s time to examine the engines that power these luxury SUVs.
The Lexus RX 350’s 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine produces 300 horsepower, similar to the Genesis GV80’s engine.
Here’s a comparison of the engine options:
- Smallest Engine: The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class’s 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine produces 255 horsepower, while the Audi Q7’s 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine has a 12-volt soft hybrid system.
- Most Powerful Engine: The BMW X5’s twin-turbo V-8 engine produces 523 horsepower, followed closely by the Audi Q7’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 500 horsepower.
- Variety of Options: The Acura MDX offers a range of engines, including a base 3.5-liter V6 engine and an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower in the MDX Type S trim.
Expert Verdict on the Lexus RX and Similar Cars
As you weigh the pros and cons of the Lexus RX 350 against its competitors, it’s essential to ponder the expert verdict on these luxury SUVs.
You’ll find the RX 350’s starting price is comparable to the Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, and Volvo XC90, but outpriced by the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne.
In terms of performance, the RX 350’s engine is outpowered by some rivals, but its safety features and interior amenities, including a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, are on par with competitors like the Acura MDX.
Conclusion
You’ve weighed the pros and cons of the Lexus RX against its competitors. Did you know that 70% of luxury SUV buyers prioritize interior space and comfort? The Lexus RX and its rivals deliver on these demands, but each with unique strengths. From the Genesis GV80’s value-packed features to the BMW X5’s exceptional performance, there’s a luxury SUV to suit every taste.
