Roxpert

I am all set to trade in my 1999 RX 300 for a new 2008 AWD RX 350. Thanks for all the help in my thread on the other forum in helping me decide on the RX over the Acura MDX. Now I am trying to figure out what to expect in moving to the 350. So far, here is what differences I think I'll notice:

1. Worse visibility - The 300 had lots of glass and thinner pillars than the 350 does, and since it is shorter, visibility through the back window is better. On the other hand, the new 350 has a rear backup camera to help me out.

2. Even smoother ride - As smooth as the original RX was, I suppose the Lexus engineers gave us an even more cushy ride with the 2nd generation, though I don't know if I'll notice it that much. I enjoyed the ride of the 300 so much that I kept it for over 110k miles!

3. Even quieter - This I've experienced in test-driving the 350, and it is noticeable. Especially on rough road, I think I'll be even more isolated from road noise in the new 350 than I was with the 300.

4. NAV system and audio on screen - Never had a nav system, don't know if I'll even need it or use it that much, but decided to buy it with the new RX in order to get the backup camera and to enjoy audio info on the screen (AM, FM, and XM). This is even more important since I am getting XM dealer installed, and the channel and track info will appear on screen. If I get the MP3 Jack dealer-installed, I understand that MP3 info also can appear on the screen. Is this correct?

5. More power - I'm upgrading from 225 to 270 horsepower, without a lot more weight to pull with the 350. So getting on freeway on-ramps and merging into traffic will be more fun.

6. More maneuverable despite larger size - My 300 has a wide 41.3 foot turning radius, and the new 350 is at 37.4 feet. So even though the 350 is wider and longer than the old car, I might expect it to be easier to maneuver around tight spaces, which will help with my parking situation.

So, except for the worsened visibility, it seems to me that I'll be happy with all the changes of the 350 compared to the 300. For those who have already done so, or know about the subject, what other benefits or changes that I wouldn't expect will I discover once I get my new RX? I'm VERY excited to find out!

salimshah

You have covered all, but little little things may add + to your ownership experience.

So in addition to your list:

1. You will be making + impact on the economy with additional burden to your financial bottom line.

2. Quiter as compared to RX300, but the engine noise may be more when you gas it.

3. For every day driving (in familiar territory) the nav is a bloated gimik. BUT when you are driving to an address never visited before it can be invaluable. Trafic update would be nice, but I amnot sure if the system can do that. By the way, never rely on the nav system solely. Hardware problems and sofware bugs can take you to your destination but there are no gaurantees.

4. Call me old fashioned but driving by instrument (rear view camera) for me would be limited to ensuring no child/object is below the rear window cut off. I would turn and look before backing up.

Enjoy your new ride.

Salim

HarrierAWD

I have a 2002 RX300 with NAV. I drove a RX350 loaner and here's what I can tell you...

1. Worse visibility - You are correct about rear visibility, definitely get the rear-view camera. Though the RX350 has better front corner visibility than the RX300.

2. Even smoother ride - They are the same.

3. Even quieter - Less wind noise, but the 3.5L engine is slightly louder. Consumer Reports engineers say so as well.

4. NAV system and audio on screen - My loaner didn't have NAV like my RX300. So can't tell you much.

5. More power - Indeed. The RX350 can go up some hills in the 5th gear where my RX300 needs to do in 3rd.

6. More maneuverable despite larger size - The RX350 turning radius is wide at 41 feet based on Consumer Reports test. The RX330 has 37 feet, also based on CR test. RX300 is at 44.

I personally like the following on the RX350 features/options over the RX300. I'd get all these features/options despite the price.

Headlamp washer - useful in Colorado winter
Independent on/off fog lamps
Rain-sensing wipers
Rearview camera
Voice-controlled NAV
Bluetooth and MP3

I personally like my RX300 over the RX350 for these:
Visibility all around
Reliability (based on CR survey and my experience)
HID light pattern, distance, and coverage
Styling and the two-tone paint scheme
Dash and instrument panel layout

Hope this helps.

sjpobox

Hi make sure you get it with michelin tires instead of goodyears. the goodyears do not wear as good and you start to hear road noise around 20k miles.

acerx300

1. Tail gate is powered. It can be opened by fob or switch inside vehicle.
2. tonneau cover is powered.
3.Superior cupholders in my opinion.
4. Better airflow to the rear passengers via the center console vents.
5. As stated above, much more horsepower yet thanks to the 5th gear overall better gas mileage.
6. Superior tires as compared to stock 16'' on my '02 rx
7. Awesome headlights that turn when you turn your steering wheel, not to mention they're projector types.
8.Noticeably more trunk space.
9.Mirrors are more logically placed on A pillar as opposed being attached via a special attachment. (less wind noise)
10.Finally separate audio/climate controls for more egonomic ease of use.

anulex

Wow, i really hate the two tone. it dates the car. IMHO the monotone RX300 look better than the 330/350s

mandyfig

You have a point, the RX300 is a classic....no doubt.

Francis

Does the car has ML sound? It will blow your mind.

mandyfig

I heard that the ML is over rated.

HarrierAWD

Yes, the two-tone paint scheme seems to be a 1990's fad. Monotone... so 1960-ish. Groovy.