The 2017 Lexus RX 350 ranks 4 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Lexus RX 350 ranks in the top quarter among luxury midsize SUVs because it offers an attractive and spacious interior, good power, and impressive standard features, but some competitors can say the same thing.
Pros Generous list of standard features Comfortable and spacious rear seats Lower base price than many competitors
Cons Difficult-to-use infotainment system Limited cargo space
As a style-conscious statement of indulgence, the Lexus RX shines like never before. Its looks are polarizing and it's not all that fun to drive even in F Sport form, but the RX continues to excel in many ways. Almost ubiquitous with the term "luxury crossover," the Lexus RX was redesigned last year with a far more lavish look and feel inside and out. It's a daring breath of fresh air for the model that essentially pioneered this premium, upscale segment. We like the current Lexus RX, even though it's not quite as polished to drive as some rivals. With its solid feel and eye-catching looks, the RX rates a 7.3 out of 10 on our scale.
Pros Eye-catching design Refined interior Solid power Available hybrid Standard safety tech
Cons Polarizing looks Expensive with options F-Sport rides very firmly No third row
Don’t let the RX’s daring style fool you—it’s still the plush-riding crossover it’s always been, but a technological leap forward from its segment-defining predecessor. A 295-hp V-6, eight-speed automatic and front-drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. There is a hybrid, but with optional all-wheel drive, we managed 22 mpg; its combined EPA rating is 30. The cabin uses rich-looking interior materials throughout; the F Sport gets comfortable and supportive seats, among other upgrades. The Lexus RX, which has reigned as the best-selling Lexus model and the top seller among all luxury crossovers and SUVs for nearly two decades, went under the knife for some major work in 2016. It kept the passenger-car mechanicals, raised seating position, posh interior, and cargo-friendly five-passenger SUV body style but cranked the styling volume up to new heights with an outsize snout, a floating roof, and a riotous surface treatment. Voting with their wallets, the car-buying public seems to prefer this new RX, as sales have increased versus the more sedate-looking previous version.
The 2017 Infiniti QX70 ranks 17 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is all about driving dynamics, offering powerful engine performance and sharp handling. However, you won't get the rear-seat or cargo space that many other SUVs offer. Though tech features are user-friendly, the interior design looks dated compared to rivals.
Pros Powerful engine Engaging handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Below-average cargo capacity Cramped rear seats Some outdated tech features and design touches
A new Limited package replaces last year's Deluxe Touring option and adds some cosmetic upgrades, but otherwise the QX70 returns unchanged. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is a performance SUV that gives you more sport than utility. It also has unique styling and a luxurious interior. But after several years on the market, it's beginning to show its age against newer competitors.
Pros Sharp handling that makes it feel more like a sport sedan than a tall SUV Plenty of passing power from the standard V6 engine Well-trimmed interior has high-quality materials throughout.
Cons Less forgiving over rough surfaces than most luxury SUVs Rear passenger and cargo space are small for the class Technology interface is noticeably dated compared to newer competitors Only one engine option offered.
It's starting to look and feel dated, but the QX70 provides a healthy dose of thrills and, surprisingly, value. Formerly called the FX, the 2017 Infiniti QX70 makes some deliberate sacrifices for style and performance to be one of the most driver-focused crossovers available. It's certainly dated up against fresher rivals, but the QX70 focuses instead on delivering excellent driving dynamics in a way matched by few other vehicles of its ilk.
Pros Terrific chassis Flexible engine and transmission Styled like nothing else
Cons Cramped interior Poor fuel economy Expensive safety options
