Let's dive into the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport, a vehicle that has carved out a significant niche in the luxury SUV market. Guys, if you're considering a blend of comfort, reliability, and a touch of sporty flair, this might just be the ride for you. In this article, we'll explore what makes the 2017 RX 350 Sport stand out, covering everything from its design and performance to its interior features and overall driving experience. So, buckle up and get ready for a comprehensive look at this popular luxury SUV.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior design of the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport is where it starts to differentiate itself from the standard RX 350. Lexus has always been known for its distinctive styling, and the RX 350 Sport is no exception. The bold spindle grille, a signature element of Lexus design, immediately grabs your attention. It's flanked by sleek LED headlights that not only provide excellent visibility but also add to the vehicle's modern and aggressive look. The Sport trim adds unique touches like a mesh grille insert, sportier front and rear bumpers, and distinctive alloy wheels, typically 20-inch, that enhance its athletic stance. These visual upgrades give the RX 350 Sport a more dynamic and youthful appeal compared to its more subdued siblings.

From the side, the RX 350 Sport boasts a coupe-like silhouette, thanks to its sloping roofline and cleverly designed rear spoiler. This design not only looks stylish but also contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency. Chrome accents around the windows and door handles add a touch of elegance, while the available roof rails provide practicality for those who enjoy outdoor adventures. The rear of the vehicle features L-shaped LED taillights that wrap around the corners, giving it a sophisticated and recognizable appearance at night. The overall design strikes a balance between luxury and sportiness, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers. The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident, with every line and curve carefully crafted to create a cohesive and visually appealing package. Whether you're cruising through the city or parked at a scenic overlook, the RX 350 Sport is sure to turn heads. The exterior is not just about aesthetics; it's about making a statement. The design reflects a blend of sophistication and athleticism, aligning with the desires of drivers who want both luxury and a sporty edge in their SUV.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and elegant trim pieces. The seats are upholstered in supple leather, providing excellent comfort and support, even on long drives. The front seats are power-adjustable and offer lumbar support, ensuring a comfortable driving position for drivers of all sizes. The Sport trim often includes unique interior accents, such as aluminum pedals and sport seats with enhanced bolstering, further enhancing the sporty feel.

The RX 350 Sport is packed with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance both convenience and entertainment. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large infotainment display, typically an 8-inch or 12.3-inch screen, depending on the configuration. This display is controlled by Lexus's Remote Touch interface, which can take some getting used to but offers a wide range of functions, including navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. The infotainment system also supports smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your mobile devices and access your favorite apps on the go. The available premium audio system, often a Mark Levinson setup, delivers exceptional sound quality, making every drive a concert-like experience.

Other notable interior features include a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, a heads-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, and a suite of advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features not only enhance safety but also add to the overall driving experience. The interior of the RX 350 Sport is designed with both the driver and passengers in mind, offering a comfortable and connected environment for all occupants. From the premium materials to the advanced technology, every detail is carefully considered to create a luxurious and enjoyable experience. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the RX 350 Sport's interior provides a sanctuary of comfort and convenience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. This engine produces around 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts seamlessly and efficiently, contributing to the vehicle's overall fuel economy. The RX 350 Sport is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter providing enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.

The Sport trim of the RX 350 features a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling and responsiveness. While it's not a sports car, the RX 350 Sport offers a more engaging driving experience compared to the standard model. The suspension tweaks reduce body roll in corners, providing a more confident and controlled feel. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback from the road. The RX 350 Sport also includes driving modes that allow you to customize the vehicle's performance to your preferences. These modes include Eco, Normal, and Sport, each adjusting the throttle response, steering feel, and transmission settings to suit different driving conditions.

In terms of ride quality, the RX 350 Sport strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers. However, it's firm enough to provide a sense of control and stability when cornering. The RX 350 Sport is also relatively quiet inside, thanks to Lexus's attention to sound insulation. This makes it a relaxing and enjoyable vehicle for long trips. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2017 RX 350 Sport are well-suited to its mission as a luxury SUV. It offers a smooth and refined driving experience with enough power and agility to make it enjoyable to drive in a variety of conditions. The Sport trim adds a touch of athleticism, making it appealing to drivers who want a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing comfort or luxury.

Reliability and Safety

One of the key reasons why the Lexus RX 350 is so popular is its reputation for reliability. Lexus has consistently ranked high in reliability surveys, and the 2017 RX 350 is no exception. Owners report few problems with the vehicle, and it's known for its durability and longevity. This reliability is a major selling point for many buyers, as it provides peace of mind and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs down the road. The RX 350 is also backed by Lexus's excellent warranty coverage, which provides additional protection against unexpected issues.

In terms of safety, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport excels. It has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The RX 350 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full array of airbags. It also includes advanced safety technologies, such as a rearview camera, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

The RX 350 Sport is also available with optional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features provide additional layers of protection and can help to make driving safer and more convenient. Overall, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport is a very safe and reliable vehicle. Its excellent safety ratings and reputation for reliability make it a top choice for buyers who prioritize these factors. Whether you're driving around town or embarking on a long road trip, you can have confidence in the RX 350 Sport's ability to keep you and your passengers safe. The combination of advanced safety features and a strong track record for reliability makes it a smart and responsible choice for families and individuals alike.

Overall Impression

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport is a compelling choice in the luxury SUV segment. It combines a stylish exterior design with a luxurious and well-equipped interior, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience. The V6 engine provides ample power, and the sport-tuned suspension enhances handling without sacrificing ride quality. The RX 350 Sport also excels in terms of reliability and safety, making it a practical and responsible choice.

Guys, if you're looking for a luxury SUV that offers a blend of style, comfort, performance, and reliability, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that's well-suited to a wide range of lifestyles, whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a family road trip. The RX 350 Sport offers a compelling package that's hard to beat in its class.

While it may not be the sportiest or most performance-oriented SUV on the market, the RX 350 Sport strikes a good balance between luxury and sportiness. It's a vehicle that's designed to be comfortable and enjoyable to drive every day, while also offering a touch of excitement when you want it. The RX 350 Sport is a well-rounded and versatile SUV that's sure to impress. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 Sport stands out as a strong contender for those seeking a premium driving experience. Its combination of luxury, performance, and reliability makes it a smart and satisfying choice for discerning drivers. If you value a vehicle that offers both comfort and a touch of sporty flair, the RX 350 Sport should be at the top of your list.