Lexus RX 350 2026 Review: A Premium SUV That Redefines Comfort, Technology & Prestige

Luxury SUVs have become the ultimate status symbol in India. Buyers today are no longer satisfied with just a premium badge; they want comfort, reliability, technology, and stress-free ownership. This is exactly where Lexus positions itself differently from its German rivals. The Lexus RX 350 is not designed to be the sportiest or flashiest SUV in the segment. Instead, it focuses on long-term comfort, unmatched refinement, and bulletproof reliability qualities Indian luxury buyers increasingly value.

The 2026 iteration of the RX 350 takes everything Lexus is known for and refines it further. With bold styling, a turbocharged petrol engine, a whisper-quiet cabin, advanced safety systems, and premium craftsmanship, the RX 350 2026 aims to be the perfect luxury SUV for Indian roads and driving conditions. But does it justify its premium pricing?

Lexus RX 350 2026: Brand Philosophy and Market Positioning

Lexus operates differently from European luxury brands. While BMW focuses on driving pleasure, Mercedes-Benz emphasizes luxury appeal, and Audi highlights technology, Lexus concentrates on refinement and reliability.

The RX series has always been Lexus’ global bestseller. It appeals to:

• Business owners

• Senior executives

• Professionals seeking comfort over performance

• Buyers planning long-term ownership (7–10 years)

In India, Lexus buyers are often second-time or third-time luxury car owners who want peace of mind rather than excitement. The RX 350 2026 fits perfectly into this mindset.

Exterior Design: Elegant Aggression Done Right

Front Design

The Lexus RX 350 features the latest evolution of the iconic spindle grille. Unlike older designs that felt oversized, the new grille is seamlessly integrated into the bumper, giving the SUV a sophisticated yet bold face.

Key front highlights:

• Sharp LED headlamps with signature DRLs

• Sculpted bonnet with strong creases

• Chrome and gloss-black accents (variant-dependent)

The design balances luxury and aggression—important for Indian buyers who want road presence without looking excessive.

Side Profile

From the side, the RX 350 looks long, wide, and muscular. The flowing shoulder line enhances its premium appeal, while the slightly sloping roofline adds a touch of sportiness without compromising headroom.

Wheel options range from 19-inch to 21-inch alloys depending on the variant. The wheel design is classy rather than flashy very Lexus.

Rear Design

At the rear, connected LED tail lamps stretch across the width of the SUV, giving it a modern and upscale appearance. The “LEXUS” lettering replaces the traditional logo, aligning with Lexus’ global design direction.

Overall, the RX 350 2026 looks expensive—and in India, that matters.

Dimensions and Road Presence (India Perspective)

The Lexus RX 350 2026 is a large SUV, but not intimidating to drive.

Approximate dimensions:

• Length: ~4,890 mm

• Width: ~1,920 mm

• Height: ~1,695 mm

• Wheelbase: ~2,850 mm

Despite its size, visibility is excellent thanks to large windows and well-placed mirrors—ideal for Indian traffic and tight parking spaces.

Interior Design: Takumi Craftsmanship Explained

Lexus uses a philosophy called Takumi craftsmanship, where master artisans spend decades perfecting their skills. This philosophy is clearly reflected inside the RX 350.

Cabin Layout

The interior design is clean, driver-focused, and clutter-free. Unlike German rivals that sometimes overwhelm with buttons, Lexus prioritises simplicity and ergonomics.

Materials used:

• Soft-touch leather surfaces

• Real wood or aluminium trims

• Premium quality switches and knobs

Everything feels solid, durable, and built to last.

Seating Comfort: Made for Indian Driving Conditions

Front Seats

The front seats are among the most comfortable in the segment.

Features include:

• Power adjustment

• Heating and ventilation

• Memory function

• Excellent under-thigh support

Even after long highway drives, fatigue is minimal.

Rear Seats

Indian buyers often sit in the rear seat, and Lexus understands this perfectly.

Rear seat highlights:

• Excellent legroom

• Wide seat base

• Recline function (select variants)

• Rear sunshades

The RX 350 is a fantastic chauffeur-driven luxury SUV.

Cabin Space and Practicality

The Lexus RX comfortably seats five adults. The flat rear floor makes it usable for three passengers, although two is ideal for maximum comfort.

Boot space is generous and practical, easily accommodating:

• Airport luggage

• Family holiday bags

• Golf bags

The powered tailgate adds convenience.

Engine and Performance: Smooth Over Sporty

The Lexus RX 350 2026 uses a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

Engine Specifications

• Power: ~275 hp

• Torque: ~430 Nm

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

• Drivetrain: AWD (market dependent)

Driving Experience

The RX 350 is not designed to excite. Instead, it delivers:

• Smooth acceleration

• Linear power delivery

• Silent cruising

In city driving, the engine feels effortless. On highways, overtaking is smooth and confident without drama.

This approach suits Indian luxury buyers perfectly.

Ride Quality: One of the Best in Segment

Ride comfort is where the RX 350 truly shines.

Indian road conditions demand:

• Soft suspension

• Good ground clearance

• Stable highway dynamics

The RX 350 handles potholes, speed breakers, and broken roads with remarkable composure. Cabin insulation ensures road and tyre noise remain minimal.

Even elderly passengers will appreciate the ride comfort.

Steering and Handling

The steering is light and easy at low speeds, making city driving stress-free. At highway speeds, it gains weight for stability.

Handling characteristics:

• Predictable

• Safe

• Comfort-oriented

Enthusiasts may find it boring, but comfort-seekers will love it.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency (India Expectations)

Luxury SUV buyers still care about mileage, especially in India where fuel costs are high.

Expected mileage:

• City: 9–10 km/l

• Highway: 12–13 km/l

For better efficiency, Lexus’ hybrid variants are a smarter long-term choice.

Infotainment and Technology

The RX 350 2026 features Lexus’ latest infotainment system.

Infotainment Features

• Large touchscreen display

• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

• Crisp interface with fast response

Additional Tech

• Head-Up Display

• Wireless charging

• Digital driver display

• Mark Levinson premium audio system

Technology is modern, intuitive, and reliable.

Safety: Lexus’ Strongest Advantage

Safety is non-negotiable in this price segment, and Lexus delivers.

Safety Features

• 8+ airbags

• ADAS suite

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane keep assist

• Blind spot monitoring

• Automatic emergency braking

The RX 350 is one of the safest luxury SUVs available.

Ownership Experience in India

Reliability

Lexus is globally known for exceptional reliability. Compared to German rivals, long-term maintenance stress is significantly lower.

Service Experience

Lexus dealerships in India focus heavily on:

• Customer hospitality

• Transparent servicing

• Pick-up and drop services

Owners often praise Lexus for its premium ownership experience.

Expected Price in India

Expected ex-showroom price:

• ₹95 lakh – ₹1.10 crore

Yes, it’s expensive—but Lexus buyers pay for peace of mind.

Competitor Comparison (India)

RX 350 vs BMW X5

• Lexus: Comfort, reliability

• BMW: Sporty performance

RX 350 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE

• Lexus: Quiet cabin, durability

• Mercedes: Flashy interiors

RX 350 vs Audi Q7

• Lexus: Better reliability

• Audi: Tech-heavy design

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional comfort

• Premium interiors

• Outstanding reliability

• Top-tier safety

Cons

• High price

• Not sporty

• Limited dealer network

Who Should Buy the Lexus RX 350 2026?

Ideal buyers:

• Business owners

• Senior executives

• Chauffeur-driven users

• Buyers planning long ownership

Not ideal for:

• Driving enthusiasts

• Budget-focused buyers

Final Verdict: Is Lexus RX 350 2026 Worth It in India?

The Lexus RX 350 2026 is not about thrills it’s about serenity. It offers unmatched comfort, long-term reliability, and stress-free ownership. If you value peace of mind over performance bragging rights, this luxury SUV is absolutely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Lexus RX 350 2026

1. What is the expected launch date of the Lexus RX 350 2026 in India?

The Lexus RX 350 is expected to launch in India sometime in late 2026 or early 2027, depending on Lexus India’s import and homologation timelines. Lexus usually introduces global models in India a few months after international launches.

2. What is the expected price of the Lexus RX 350 2026 in India?

The expected ex-showroom price in India for the Lexus RX 350 2026 is between ₹95 lakh and ₹1.10 crore, depending on the variant and equipment level. Final on-road prices will vary by city due to taxes and insurance.

3. Is the Lexus RX 350 2026 a petrol or hybrid SUV?

The Lexus RX 350 2026 is powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine. However, Lexus also offers hybrid versions globally, which may be introduced in India for buyers looking for better fuel efficiency and lower running costs.

4. What mileage can Indian buyers expect from the Lexus RX 350 2026?

Expected mileage figures for Indian driving conditions are:

• City: 9–10 km/l

• Highway: 12–13 km/l

Mileage may vary based on driving style, traffic conditions, and road quality.

5. Is the Lexus RX 350 2026 suitable for chauffeur-driven use?

Yes, the RX 350 2026 is excellent for chauffeur-driven buyers. It offers:

• Spacious rear seats

• Plush ride quality

• Quiet cabin

• Premium comfort features

This makes it ideal for business owners and senior executives in India.

6. How does the Lexus RX 350 2026 compare to BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE?

The Lexus RX 350 2026 focuses more on:

• Comfort

• Reliability

• Smooth ride

• Long-term ownership peace of mind

While BMW X5 is sportier and Mercedes-Benz GLE feels flashier, Lexus appeals to buyers who prioritise refinement and low-stress ownership.

7. Does the Lexus RX 350 2026 come with ADAS safety features?

Yes, the RX 350 2026 comes equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane keep assist

• Automatic emergency braking

• Blind spot monitoring

These features enhance safety on Indian highways and city roads.

8. Is the Lexus RX 350 2026 expensive to maintain in India?

While service costs are higher than mass-market SUVs, Lexus maintenance is generally more predictable and reliable than many German luxury brands. Long-term ownership costs tend to be lower due to fewer mechanical issues.

9. Does Lexus offer good after-sales service in India?

Yes, Lexus India is known for premium customer service, including:

• Personalised service advisors

• Pickup and drop facility

• Transparent billing

• High customer satisfaction levels

However, dealership availability is limited to major cities.

10. Is the Lexus RX 350 2026 good for Indian road conditions?

Absolutely. The RX 350’s:

• Comfortable suspension

• Good ground clearance

• Stable highway performance

make it well-suited for Indian roads, including broken surfaces and long-distance travel.

11. Who should buy the Lexus RX 350 2026 in India?

You should consider the RX 350 2026 if you:

• Want luxury without reliability worries

• Prefer comfort over sporty driving

• Plan long-term ownership

• Need a premium family or chauffeur-driven SUV

12. Who should avoid buying the Lexus RX 350 2026?

This SUV may not be ideal if you:

• Want aggressive performance

• Prefer sporty handling

• Are looking for the lowest-priced luxury SUV

13. Is the Lexus RX 350 2026 worth buying in India?

Yes, if your priority is comfort, refinement, safety, and long-term peace of mind, the Lexus RX 350 2026 is one of the best luxury SUVs available in its segment for Indian buyers.