LOOKS

Redesigned for 2016, there is nothing subtle about the RX350, which is not looking to blend in. What sets some of the newer Lexus models apart from the competition are the big, bold spider-web grilles, which stand as a sort of announcement: Move over, I’m coming through.
I’ve read reviews that call it ugly; I wouldn’t go that route; I’ll say it’s unique, and some people will like it and others won’t.

The sharp lines on the side of the vehicle enhance the vehicle’s profile, and overall the 2016 Lexus lineup serves as a contrast visually to the more reserved approach taken by some competitors (Audi, Benz, etc.)

Inside, the driver will feel a bit steeper incline than most SUVs, especially if you get the F Sport version that I tested, but it’s comfortable for the most part. The ride is also very quiet inside, due to improved efforts to keep sound outside.

A high point of the interior: Overall design and quality of materials -- a hallmark of Lexus vehicles. Well done down to the last stitch.

RIDE QUALITY

Under the hood, you get a 3.5-liter, V6 engine, along with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The RX350 offers 295 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque, and all-wheel drive.

Overall the vehicle drives very smoothly, especially on the highway, and acceleration is adequate once you’re moving at higher rates of speed. But one downside is that it’s not the best at getting up to speed from a stop. This is one area where some luxury competitors have the advantage on Lexus.

The optional F Sport package adds features such as 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a tuned suspension with front and rear performance dampers, as well as some visual upgrades.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY
This is one area where Lexus both hits and misses the mark.

It’s successful in its visual display offerings, which include a stunning 12.3-inch rectangular screen that can feature three different pieces of information at once. Even the base version comes with an 8-inch display, which is still very adequate.

But the trouble comes in the manipulation of this screen, which is done via a mouse-like control in the center console which is a bit too touchy for my taste. Having tried pretty every type of control mechanism on vehicles’ infotainment systems, I much prefer directly touching the screen or using dials/buttons in the center to this mouse-like approach. It’s not the most user-friendly and often distracting.

As usual for a Toyota product, safety is covered in all areas -- from airbag coverage to blind spot monitoring, backup camera, automatic collision notification, rain sensing wipers, and much more. No worries in that department.

MPG
Official MPG numbers on the RX350 are 19 city/26 highway/22 combined, about average for the segment.

PRICE, BOTTOM LINE
The base version of the 2016 Lexus RX350 starts at $41,900. My loaded model with the F Sport package came in at $56,845. Not cheap, but compared to many of its competitors it’s actually a bargain.

The styling is in your face and not for everyone, but that’s the point. Lexus is trying to make a statement with this and other models -- that they’re not like the rest of the luxury crowd. Sales numbers have been strong on this model in the past, and time will tell if this latest redesign pushes them higher or not.

EIther way, if you pick up a new RX350, I can guarantee you won’t get lost in the crowd.

=======
AutoTechReviews.com can be found on Twitter @AutoTechReview, or stay updated at the AutoTechReviews Facebook page.

Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.