OUGrad05

Looking at getting a CPO RX for the wife, the unlimited mileage warranty is super appealing as is Lexus service and reputation. We're also going to test drive a highlander because they're well built and one of the only Toyota products that I actually like. However, we'd have to get a new 2017 since front parking assist is a must.

2015 Lexus RX 350 AWD CPO is approximately 35-37k.
2017 Highlander Limited AWD is approximately 42k (might be able to negotiate a better deal? might not, I dunno).
A big chunk of this difference is made up in resale/trade-in value. The Highlander retains its value much better than the RX.

I like the interior design better on the Toyota, just aesthetically, it's got more cubbies it is laid out better. But the quality on the Lexus is higher and the Lexus warranty is better and you get a loaner car with Lexus service.

Any thoughts or comments?

JDR76

I went from an RX to a Highlander Limited Platinum.

What I liked better on the RX350:

HID/auto leveling headlights
3 memory positions for driver seat (2 position on Highlander)
Auto tilt down and folding side mirrors
Power tilting/telescoping steering wheel
Real wood trim
LED map lights

What I like better on the Highlander:

I find the seats more comfortable, including driver seat cushion extender
Heated steering wheel and seats more effective
Much better/updated nav interface
3rd row has been incredibly convenient
Has more safety tech than our 13 RX
Cruise control stalk illuminated
More interior storage/cubbies
More cargo room
Panoramic sunroof
Second row heated captains chairs
Rear HVAC controls

Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any other specific questions.

JDR76

lex_rx

New Toyota for functionalities but Lexus for the cachet.

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OUGrad05

I'm not sure "cachet" matters to us to be honest. We've got a pair of newish BMWs now, so if that's what mattered we'd probably just keep those. The reason we're dumping the X3 is we're piling miles on it at an alarming rate, 22k-25k/yr and I have little confidence in our local BMW dealer once out of warranty due to some **** they pulled on a friend of mine. As a result I'm thinking trade the X3 while it still has substantial value.

vlad_a

One of replacement contenders for the RX for me is the 4Runner Limited (AWD).
The darn thing depreciates at half the rate of the Lexus!
Being one of last Toyota vehicles still made in Japan, it is one of world's most reliable vehicle, so miles can pile on all day long.
Best part - Limited shares many interior bits, including seats, with the Lexus.
Bonus - AC button!

OUGrad05

Eh, in my opinion the 4runner is selling the Toyota name, it's really not a great vehicle (reliable yes)
1) at my height I can't fit inside. I'm 6'6 and my buddy has a 2013 4 Runner limited and I have no headroom, I have to sit with my head sideways.
2) the interior quality is atrocious, hard plastics abound...
3) wind noise is bad
4) He gets awful mileage...

vlad_a

It's not for everyone, that's for sure.
Toyota has been wanting to put it on the chopping block and replace it with the civil version the Highlander for the above reasons.
But, they sell like hotcakes. It was 2014 when they got the interior and exterior upgrades that make me consider it as an option.
People say it gets 19MPG on regular, which would not be that far off from my road trip results of 22-24MPG on super in the hybrid.
And I almost cried when I compared resale values of the Lexus to the Toyota.

JDR76

That's an interesting observation.

For the years the OP is looking at, the Highlander has more power, so that may be addressed by the new Highlander versus previous years.