Lexus goes big on space for SUV
The owner of a Florida eatery once responded to a complaint about his jumbo wings with a clever advertisement: “Customers are complaining our wings are too big!”
Truth be told, some prefer medium-size wings, but he saw it as a compliment and sales pitch.
To that point, Lexus interior designers may enjoy a buyer’s comment that his midsize 2024 TX 350 may actually be too roomy — “almost too many cupholders and too much space,” he said.
Maximizing cabin space and comfort was a prime focus on the threerow TX 350, an all-new midsize-luxury SUV that replaces the RX 350-L. The third row accommodates even 6-footers comfortably, something the RX couldn’t do. Cargo space is a mammoth 97 cubic feet, just a few cubes shy of Toyota’s Sienna minivan.
Even with all seats in use, there’s room for all seven passengers to bring a carry-on suitcase.
The TX 350 is built on the same platform as the also-new Toyota Grand Highlander. Three models are available in the TX line, with the powertrains marking the key distinctions. An eight-speed automatic transmission (with paddle shifters) delivers power to either the front wheels or all four with the optional all-wheeldrive system ($1,600). The AWD is front-biased but can send as much as 50% of the power to the rear wheels as needed.
The 350 is not fast or sporty. Power is decent
under normal conditions, but it’s not a powerhouse when the going gets tough, like climbing hills with a crowded cabin. Still, all three powertrains can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Three drive modes adjust performance to the needs: Normal is good for everyday commutes and shopping runs, Sport adds more throttle, and Eco helps squeeze out some extra miles on a trip.
Perhaps most important for a family hauler is that it’s comfortable, stable and ultraquiet on the highway — one of the quietest in the segment.
The 350 cabin has a refined look with simulated-leather seats up front that are heated and mildly bolstered. Seats are plush and comfortable front and rear. It comes with 12-speaker audio, ambient lighting and wireless phone charger. More upscale features like 21-speaker audio, semi-aniline leather and 10-way power seats can be found in the higher-end trims,
Luxury and Premium.
But the spotlight is on the space, including head, leg and shoulder room throughout. The second row can be heated, slides, reclines and has its own air vents. Manual shades block the setting or rising sun. Captain’s chairs come with the higher trims, but they reduce passenger count to six.
The third row can seat bigger folks comfortably and for longer periods.
The seats also fold easily into the floor with the push of a button. Cargo space behind the third row is 20.2 cubic feet, and 57.4 cubes with the second row down too.
Here’s a neat family feature: The rear center console is removable. So are cupholders up front.
Lexus’ latest infotainment is displayed on a 14-inch touchscreen that is responsive but can be cumbersome climbing through the setting menus. It includes access to wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and navigation.
The Technology Package ($1,050) features a reconfigurable 12.3-inch gauge cluster, panoramic rear-view mirror, head-up display and advanced parking assist.
The TX 350 isn’t the only option among threerow Lexus SUVS, with the more-rugged LX and GX in play. But the TX is more affordable, driver-friendly and roomier. Lexus got it right with the bigger cabin.