Skip to main content

2008
Lexus RX 350

Starts at:
$37,400
Shop options
New 2008 Lexus RX 350
See ratings
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Shop Cars.com
Browse cars & save your favorites
Dealers near you
Find & contact a dealership near you
Listings near 43272
Change location See all listings

Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • FWD 4dr
    Starts at
    $37,400
    18 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • AWD 4dr
    Starts at
    $38,800
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350 2008 Lexus RX 350

The good & the bad

This vehicle doesn't have any good or bad insights yet.

Use our comparison tool to look at this model side-by-side with other vehicles or view the full specifications list .

Start your comparison

Expert 2008 Lexus RX 350 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Bill Griffith
Full article
our expert's take


One of life’s sinking feelings comes from waking up just before sunup, looking outside and seeing that you left an interior light on in the car all night long. In the old days, that scenario guaranteed a dead battery.

I had that feeling recently, at 5:30 a.m. on a cold Sunday. I saw the dome light shining inside today’s test car, a 2008 Lexus RX 350. It was both a beacon to tell the neighbors I was a nitwit and a signal that I wasn’t going back to sleep, not while wondering whether the battery still had enough juice left to start the engine.

The night before, I managed to synch my cellphone with the Lexus Bluetooth system and also programmed a few numbers into the car’s memory. But I forgot to turn the dome light off. So in the predawn, I padded outside in sweats.

Opening the Lexus door at night is a revelation. Beside the dome lights, there is classy lighting everywhere, including puddle lamps under the outside mirrors that turn on when the doors are unlocked.

Inside, there are the footlights in the leg wells, a lighted Lexus nameplate in the doorsill, lighted cupholders, lighted front console, and lighted glove box. It’s an immediate example of how to equate lighting with luxury.

Despite all the bulbs, including the dim one in the driver’s seat, our Lexus fired up right away. And what better time to go for a joy-ride than at 6 a.m. on a winter Sunday, even if it’s under the pretext of recharging the battery?

Time and sales have proven that Lexus got the formula right when it introduced the RX 300, as it was first called, in 1998. That gave the company an early leadership in the midsize luxury segment and it added to that refinement as the vehicle became the RX 330 in 2003, and eventually the RX 350 when it went to the present 3.5-liter engine in 2006.

Both the front and rear lights of the RX 350 are molded into the body as a part of the styling with LED tail lights adding another subtle signal of luxury. Up front, the adaptive headlights turn with the vehicle and also adjust height automatically to maximize forward visibility without distracting oncoming drivers. These headlights can make a dramatic difference in the nighttime driving experience, especially when you’re switching from an older car with sandblasted (from road debris) headlight covers.

The keywords that come to mind in describing the RX 350 are luxury, safety, comfort, refinement, and reliability.

Performance is more than adequate, but the Lexus doesn’t have to corner as if it’s on rails, boast about its tuned exhaust, or have great appeal to the tuner market. Nor has it squeezed a third-row seat in back, though that may be an option when the third generation vehicle comes along in a year or two.

Meanwhile, the RX 350 remains a benchmark for the segment with a smooth V6 that’s plenty powerful for the car-based architecture, delivers roughly 20 miles per gallon, and gets you there in as much comfort as you should ever desire. Buyers seeking a greener version can opt for the 400h hybrid version.

Our test vehicle had more than 19,000 miles on it, but other than some winter dirt on the front carpets there were no rattles or signs of wear.

It had a base price of $38,800. Our two favorite options were the $665 package that added multistage heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, headlight washers, and a $160 towing prep package that added a transmission cooler, heavy-duty alternator, and radiator.

More pricey were the Generation 5 Nav system with Bluetooth, voice-activation, and rear back-up camera ($2,650) and the luxury value package ($2,060) which added leather interior trim, power tilt/telescoping wheel with memory, high-discharge and adaptive headlights, illuminated entry, and one-touch moonroof.

But sometimes what you appreciate most is the fact it will start at the turn of the key – even if you leave the reading light on all night.

THE BASICS

Base price/as tested $38,800 / $47,395 Fuel economy 20.3 miles per gallon in Globe testing

THE EARLY LINE

In this case, the early line is actually a late line. The RX 350 is nearing the end of its second generation, but remains relevant and competitive in the midsize luxury SUV segment.

THE SPECIFICS

Drivetrain 3.5-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel drive

Seating 5 passengers

Horsepower 270

Torque 251 lb.-ft.

Overall length 186.2 inches

Wheelbase 106.9 inches

Height 66.1 inches

Width 72.6 inches

Curb weight 4,090 pounds

THE SKINNY

Nice touch The user-friendly Bluetooth and navigation system.

Annoyance

The mirror adjustments, rear gate, and fuel door release all are located low on the left side of the instrument panel, out of sight for a taller driver.

Watch for The RX 350’s cousin, the Toyota Highlander, has been reintroduced, so look for a third-generation RX in a year or two.

Consider shopping it against Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti Fx35, Land Rover LR3, Nissan Murano, Volvo XC90.

2008 Lexus RX 350 review: Our expert's take
By Bill Griffith


One of life’s sinking feelings comes from waking up just before sunup, looking outside and seeing that you left an interior light on in the car all night long. In the old days, that scenario guaranteed a dead battery.

I had that feeling recently, at 5:30 a.m. on a cold Sunday. I saw the dome light shining inside today’s test car, a 2008 Lexus RX 350. It was both a beacon to tell the neighbors I was a nitwit and a signal that I wasn’t going back to sleep, not while wondering whether the battery still had enough juice left to start the engine.

The night before, I managed to synch my cellphone with the Lexus Bluetooth system and also programmed a few numbers into the car’s memory. But I forgot to turn the dome light off. So in the predawn, I padded outside in sweats.

Opening the Lexus door at night is a revelation. Beside the dome lights, there is classy lighting everywhere, including puddle lamps under the outside mirrors that turn on when the doors are unlocked.

Inside, there are the footlights in the leg wells, a lighted Lexus nameplate in the doorsill, lighted cupholders, lighted front console, and lighted glove box. It’s an immediate example of how to equate lighting with luxury.

Despite all the bulbs, including the dim one in the driver’s seat, our Lexus fired up right away. And what better time to go for a joy-ride than at 6 a.m. on a winter Sunday, even if it’s under the pretext of recharging the battery?

Time and sales have proven that Lexus got the formula right when it introduced the RX 300, as it was first called, in 1998. That gave the company an early leadership in the midsize luxury segment and it added to that refinement as the vehicle became the RX 330 in 2003, and eventually the RX 350 when it went to the present 3.5-liter engine in 2006.

Both the front and rear lights of the RX 350 are molded into the body as a part of the styling with LED tail lights adding another subtle signal of luxury. Up front, the adaptive headlights turn with the vehicle and also adjust height automatically to maximize forward visibility without distracting oncoming drivers. These headlights can make a dramatic difference in the nighttime driving experience, especially when you’re switching from an older car with sandblasted (from road debris) headlight covers.

The keywords that come to mind in describing the RX 350 are luxury, safety, comfort, refinement, and reliability.

Performance is more than adequate, but the Lexus doesn’t have to corner as if it’s on rails, boast about its tuned exhaust, or have great appeal to the tuner market. Nor has it squeezed a third-row seat in back, though that may be an option when the third generation vehicle comes along in a year or two.

Meanwhile, the RX 350 remains a benchmark for the segment with a smooth V6 that’s plenty powerful for the car-based architecture, delivers roughly 20 miles per gallon, and gets you there in as much comfort as you should ever desire. Buyers seeking a greener version can opt for the 400h hybrid version.

Our test vehicle had more than 19,000 miles on it, but other than some winter dirt on the front carpets there were no rattles or signs of wear.

It had a base price of $38,800. Our two favorite options were the $665 package that added multistage heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, headlight washers, and a $160 towing prep package that added a transmission cooler, heavy-duty alternator, and radiator.

More pricey were the Generation 5 Nav system with Bluetooth, voice-activation, and rear back-up camera ($2,650) and the luxury value package ($2,060) which added leather interior trim, power tilt/telescoping wheel with memory, high-discharge and adaptive headlights, illuminated entry, and one-touch moonroof.

But sometimes what you appreciate most is the fact it will start at the turn of the key – even if you leave the reading light on all night.

THE BASICS

Base price/as tested $38,800 / $47,395 Fuel economy 20.3 miles per gallon in Globe testing

THE EARLY LINE

In this case, the early line is actually a late line. The RX 350 is nearing the end of its second generation, but remains relevant and competitive in the midsize luxury SUV segment.

THE SPECIFICS

Drivetrain 3.5-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel drive

Seating 5 passengers

Horsepower 270

Torque 251 lb.-ft.

Overall length 186.2 inches

Wheelbase 106.9 inches

Height 66.1 inches

Width 72.6 inches

Curb weight 4,090 pounds

THE SKINNY

Nice touch The user-friendly Bluetooth and navigation system.

Annoyance

The mirror adjustments, rear gate, and fuel door release all are located low on the left side of the instrument panel, out of sight for a taller driver.

Watch for The RX 350’s cousin, the Toyota Highlander, has been reintroduced, so look for a third-generation RX in a year or two.

Consider shopping it against Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti Fx35, Land Rover LR3, Nissan Murano, Volvo XC90.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2008 Lexus RX 350 base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
5/5
Side rear passenger
5/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years
Powertrain
6 years / 70,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
2 years / unlimited miles from your certified vehicle date of purchase.
Basic
2 years / unlimited miles from your certified vehicle date of purchase. Coverage begins after completion of the 4-year / 50,000 new vehicle Basic Warranty.
Dealer certification
161-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2008
    4.7
    Lexus RX 350
    Starts at
    $37,400
    18 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2008
    4.8
    Lexus RX 400h
    Starts at
    $42,080
    27 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    72 month/70,000 miles
    Warranty
    Gas/Electric V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2009
    4.8
    Lexus RX 350
    Starts at
    $37,700
    18 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2005
    4.7
    Lexus RX 330
    Starts at
    $36,025
    19 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2006
    4.6
    Acura RL
    Starts at
    $48,565
    18 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2009
    4.7
    Toyota Highlander
    Starts at
    $25,705
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2009
    4.5
    Toyota Venza
    Starts at
    $25,975
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas 4-cyl
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2000
    4.7
    Toyota Avalon
    Starts at
    $25,545
    21 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • Compare more options
    Use our comparison tool to add any vehicle of your choice and see a full list of specifications and features side-by-side.
    Try it now

Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 79 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.7
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.6
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • Absolute joy to drive.

    Bought mine used with 135,00 miles on it. Best driving vehicle I've ever owned. Extremely comfortable, and super stylish. Great power and wonderful options! Taken this on some long trips, and it performs better than I could ever imagine!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    59 people out of 60 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car—better than new models

    Comfy and reliable—good head and leg room and great safety features. Stable driving car and good cabinetry. Would highly recommend to there looking to purchase.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    28 people out of 29 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Dash cracked all around after 9 years.

    Love this car am disappointed with interior for the money paid for quality not as expected Very light vehicle Easy to maneuver Good for people with back issues easy to get in and out of
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    42 people out of 43 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • A great quality car!!

    I loved this car and felt very safe driving it. It is a good looking car on the outside and inside. There is lots of legroom and I loved the front heated seats. It gets great gas mileage and I could drive on the freeway for about 6 hours before needing to refill it. I have no complaints overall about the car. I am only selling it because I am moving and will no longer need it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Extremely reliable, comfortable and still current

    This car is already 12 years old. It did not break a single time, and it still drives like new. All the safety features is comparable to current cars, but it feels like a true luxury car even after that many years. Wood steering wheel feels amazing and no current cars have them!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    11 people out of 11 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best vehicle I've ever owned

    I bought this vehicle for my wife because I always told my wife that after our 4 kids were grown, I would make sure she finally got a high end vehicle to drive since we always settled for basic Chevys, Toyota's, Dodge's and so forth. I bought a used one, because of affordability, and I couldn't be happier. The styling is fantastic, and maybe because I'm just used to very average vehicles, but the performance and comfort and bells and whistles are super. It's like riding on air. So smooth and the engine has plenty of pop when you need it. All the little gadgets and extras are quite nice and very unexpected. Couldn't be happier with my purchase. Great SUV, and I will definitely buy another Lexus.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • RE: Data Analysis Thread

    The care met my need and that is why I switch to a newer one. I will continue to drive RX350 because it is so comfortable and I never had any problems with it. Until now I just have to change the oil every 3000 miles, nothing else to do.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love my car

    I have another Lexux and wanted to stay with Lexus. So now I have two. I love them both. I always wanted the RX350 and finally got one. I would recommend this car to anyone.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Roomy, quiet, and powerful

    Bought our used 2010 RX350 from a nice dealer. Discovered the car has double-thick windows, which means less road noise inside the cabin. Very powerful 3.5 liter 6 cylinder, which my mechanic says should last well past 200k miles. Very comfortable inside, with more room than the RAV4. All wheel drive capability in the snow and ice will come in handy. Wife and I both love the car. One test drive and you'll be hooked.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most reliable car I’ve owned. In excellent conditi

    This car has met all of my needs. Just purchased a newer RX I will always choose Lexus hands down. Brand new tires, brakes and battery.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best car I have used in my entire life

    This car is the best.it has really helped me save a lot of cash.. And its accident free..I never regretted using this car..the tires are so strong and reliable
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I enjoy driving a Lexus

    I had purchase my first Lexus four years ago and really enjoyed the comfort and security the vehicle afforded me. After totalling the Lexus, I knew I could only replace it with a Lexus.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from cars.com

See all news

Lexus dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2008 Lexus RX 350?

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 is available in 1 trim level:

  • (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2008 Lexus RX 350?

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2008 Lexus RX 350?

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2008 Lexus RX 350 reliable?

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2008 Lexus RX 350 owners.

Is the 2008 Lexus RX 350 a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2008 Lexus RX 350. 92.4% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 79 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.6
  • Reliability: 4.7

Lexus RX 350 history

Your list was successfully saved.
 
 
 
 
Save list Compare