Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium. If you’re in the market for a luxurious and reliable SUV, this one’s probably been on your radar. But is it really worth the hype? Let's break it down and see what makes this car tick, from its performance and comfort to its tech features and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to get into all the juicy details!

Overview of the Lexus RX 350 Premium

The Lexus RX 350 has been a staple in the luxury SUV market for years, and the 2022 Premium trim aims to elevate that experience even further. Think of it as the RX 350, but with a sprinkle of extra luxury and convenience. This model year brings a blend of Lexus's signature smooth ride, a comfortable interior, and a host of tech features designed to make your driving experience as pleasant as possible. Under the hood, you'll typically find a robust V6 engine, providing ample power for daily commutes and longer road trips. But the Premium trim isn't just about performance; it’s about adding those extra touches that make you feel pampered every time you get behind the wheel. We're talking about things like upgraded leather upholstery, advanced safety systems, and enhanced connectivity features that set it apart from the base model. For families or individuals looking for a reliable, comfortable, and stylish SUV, the RX 350 Premium is definitely a strong contender. Now, let’s get into the specifics of what makes this car so appealing, covering everything from its design and performance to its interior comforts and technology.

Exterior Design

When it comes to the exterior design of the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium, Lexus continues to blend elegance with a touch of aggression. The RX 350 Premium sports the iconic Lexus spindle grille, which is both bold and instantly recognizable. It's framed by sleek LED headlights that give the car a modern and sophisticated look. The body lines are smooth and aerodynamic, contributing to both the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and its fuel efficiency. Chrome accents are strategically placed around the windows and door handles, adding a touch of luxury without being too flashy. One of the standout features of the Premium trim is the upgraded wheel design, which often includes larger, more stylish alloy wheels that enhance the overall appearance. The rear of the car is equally well-designed, with LED taillights that wrap around the corners, giving it a distinctive look at night. You'll also notice the subtle spoiler above the rear window, which adds a sporty touch. Overall, the exterior design of the RX 350 Premium is a masterclass in understated elegance. It manages to look both luxurious and modern without being overly ostentatious, making it a great choice for those who appreciate sophisticated design. The attention to detail is evident in every line and curve, reflecting Lexus's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium, you're immediately greeted with a sense of luxury and comfort. The Premium trim elevates the interior with features like upgraded leather upholstery, which feels soft and supple to the touch. The seats are incredibly comfortable, providing ample support for long drives, and often come with multiple adjustments, including lumbar support, to ensure a perfect fit. The cabin is spacious, offering plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard is well-organized, with easy-to-reach controls and a clean, modern design. A large infotainment screen dominates the center console, providing access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Speaking of technology, the RX 350 Premium comes packed with features designed to enhance your driving experience. This includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The premium sound system delivers crisp, clear audio, making every drive a pleasure. Safety is also a top priority, with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, all working together to keep you and your passengers safe. Overall, the interior of the RX 350 Premium is a testament to Lexus's commitment to comfort, luxury, and technology.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium typically features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. This engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, making it a versatile choice for a variety of driving situations. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently, further enhancing the overall driving experience. The RX 350 Premium isn't designed to be a sports car, but it offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and stable ride for both the driver and passengers. Handling is precise and predictable, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, the RX 350 Premium excels at providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. It's perfect for those who prioritize comfort and reliability over outright performance. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in inclement weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. Overall, the performance and handling of the RX 350 Premium are well-suited to its mission as a luxurious and comfortable SUV.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any car buyer, and the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium offers reasonable gas mileage for its class. Typically, you can expect to get around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is competitive with other luxury SUVs in its segment. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you do a lot of city driving or have a heavy foot, you may see lower numbers. Conversely, if you do mostly highway driving and drive conservatively, you may be able to achieve better fuel economy. The RX 350 Premium also features an Eco mode, which optimizes engine and transmission settings to maximize fuel efficiency. This can be a useful feature for those who are particularly concerned about gas mileage. While the RX 350 Premium may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it strikes a good balance between performance and fuel economy. It offers enough power to make driving enjoyable, while still being reasonably efficient at the pump. This makes it a practical choice for those who want a luxurious SUV without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel costs.

Reliability and Safety

Lexus has a well-deserved reputation for reliability, and the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium is no exception. Lexus consistently ranks highly in reliability surveys, and the RX 350 has a long track record of being a dependable vehicle. This means you can expect to enjoy years of trouble-free ownership with proper maintenance. In terms of safety, the RX 350 Premium comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. This includes features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Additionally, it comes standard with Lexus Safety System+, which includes advanced driver-assistance features like pre-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features can help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a collision. The RX 350 Premium has also performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Overall, the RX 350 Premium is a safe and reliable vehicle that provides peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. Its reputation for dependability and its comprehensive suite of safety features make it a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium typically falls in the mid-to-upper range of the luxury SUV market when it comes to pricing. The exact price will vary depending on the options and packages you choose, but you can expect to pay a premium for the added luxury and features that come with the Premium trim. However, it's important to consider the value that the RX 350 Premium offers. In addition to its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and smooth driving experience, it also comes with Lexus's reputation for reliability and dependability. This means you can expect to enjoy years of trouble-free ownership, which can save you money in the long run. When compared to other luxury SUVs in its class, the RX 350 Premium offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and reliability. It may not be the cheapest option, but it represents a good value for those who are willing to pay a premium for quality and dependability. Additionally, Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well over time, which means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. Overall, the pricing of the RX 350 Premium is competitive, and the value it offers makes it a worthwhile consideration for those in the market for a luxury SUV.

Final Verdict

So, is the 2022 Lexus RX 350 Premium worth the hype? In my opinion, absolutely. It offers a compelling combination of luxury, comfort, technology, and reliability that is hard to beat. While it may not be the most exciting SUV on the market, it excels at providing a smooth, comfortable, and refined driving experience. The interior is beautifully appointed, with high-quality materials and a host of features designed to make your drive as pleasant as possible. The technology is cutting-edge, with advanced driver-assistance features that help keep you safe on the road. And, perhaps most importantly, it comes with Lexus's reputation for reliability, which means you can expect to enjoy years of trouble-free ownership. Of course, the RX 350 Premium isn't perfect. It may not appeal to those who are looking for a sporty or performance-oriented SUV. But for those who prioritize comfort, luxury, and reliability, it's hard to go wrong with the RX 350 Premium. It's a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, I highly recommend giving the RX 350 Premium a serious look. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you.