By Larry Lark, contributor
It’s always a good day when a Lexus lands in my driveway.
The latest example was the 2021 RX 350L crossover with seating for either six or seven adults. Whether it’s taking a couple more kids to practice, driving your colleagues to lunch, or making room for your latest antiquing find, the three-row RXL offers more space for more spontaneity.
The power-folding third-row folds flat in a heartbeat, revealing class-leading cargo space that accommodated three-golf bags and two buddies with room to spare on a recent outing to North Bellingham Golf Course.
You’ll have plenty of room for the weekend’s purchases—and then some. For added convenience, a power rear door with kick sensor is provided. Simply wave your foot under the rear bumper to open or close.
Sleek and stylish, with a distinct floating roofline, the RX 350L makes an impression even when parked. From its expressive triple-beam LED headlamps and taillamp to its bold character lines, this Lexus was designed to captivate.
Experience luxury that roars. A 3.5-liter V6 engine with direct and port fuel injection pairs exhilarating power with efficient fuel economy. Combined with a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, and delivering 295 horsepower, the RX 350L delivers dynamic performance to help you conquer every curve with added confidence.
The RX 350 averaged around 23 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving.
For even greater control, an innovative dual variable valve timing with intelligence system offers precise engine performance as it reduces emissions and enhances fuel efficiency. VVT-i monitors the engine’s speed and load, increasing torque at lower speeds for improved acceleration and boosting performance at higher speeds by adjusting intake and exhaust valve timing.
And, of course, all-wheel drive provides added peace of mind to adventure seeks tackling mountain snow, or slick, rain-soaked I-5.
Creature comforts are in large supply, highlighted by a Mark Levinson premium surround sound audio system that includes 15 speakers and 835 watts of crystal clear music to one’s ears. Ambient LED interior illumination heated and ventilated leather seating, multi-zone climate control, Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, navigation package and rear-view camera are just some of the other goodies.
For Apple CarPlay integration, guests can use their iPhone through the Lexus RXL’s touchscreen display. When their iPhone is connected, commands for driving directions, phone calls, and sending and receiving messages via Siri are enabled. They can also gain access to favorite apps like Apple Music, Apple Maps, Podcasts and Audiobooks, as well as third party apps like Waze or Spotify.
New for this model year is blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, power folding auto-dimming rearview mirror, and wireless phone charging.
Finally, Lexus provides an integrated suite of class-leading standard active safety equipment
featuring all-speed dynamic radar cruise control. The suite also includes pre-collision braking with pedestrian protection, lane tracing assist, lane departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist, and intelligent high beams.
The model also comes in hybrid and F Sport versions, and is manufactured in Ontario, Canada as well as Japan.
Base Price: $50,896
Price As Driven: $59,650
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
