6 WORST And 8 BEST Things About The 2024 Lexus TX 350

Summary

In this review, the Lexus TX is compared to the Acura MDX in the luxury SUV segment. The TX offers a spacious third row and superior cargo space but lacks some expected luxuries like automatic seat controls. Its base 2.4L turbocharged engine is less powerful and efficient than the MDX's V6. The TX 500h hybrid model is recommended for better performance and fuel economy. The TX's starting price is higher than the MDX, but it delivers a more comfortable and refined driving experience, along with advanced safety features and a large infotainment screen.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The Lexus TX enters a competitive market alongside rivals like the Audi Q7, BMW X7, and Mercedes GLS, but the video focuses on comparing it to the Acura MDX.
• 👎 Some luxury features are missing, like manual seat adjustments in the second row and non-heated third-row seats, which are expected in this segment.
• ⚡ The base powertrain, a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, is not very powerful or fuel-efficient, making the hybrid version (500h) a better choice for performance and efficiency.
• 💼 The TX is slightly more expensive than the Acura MDX, with a starting price of $55,000 for front-wheel drive, compared to $50,000 for the MDX.
• 🧳 One of the standout features is the large third-row seating, with plenty of space and comfort for passengers, plus power recline and vents that the MDX lacks.
• 🔇 Some cons in the driving experience include brakes that feel underpowered for the vehicle's size and noticeable wind noise from the windshield.
• 🔄 The TX 350's front-wheel-drive comes standard, but upgrading to all-wheel drive costs $1,500. The MDX has a similar setup, though both vehicles should ideally offer all-wheel drive standard.
• 🏋️‍♂️ The TX offers a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs across all models, whereas the MDX reduces towing capacity to 3,500 lbs in front-wheel-drive versions.
• 🔧 The Lexus TX includes advanced technology like a fully digital instrument cluster, 14-inch infotainment screen, head-up display, and automatic climate controls with heated/cooled seats.
• 🎯 The Lexus TX excels in day-to-day practicality and size, but its higher price may be a drawback for some buyers who prioritize cost-efficiency over luxury.

Q & A

What is the Lexus TX's position in the market segment?

The Lexus TX is Lexus's late entry into a hot and competitive segment, competing with vehicles like the Audi Q7, BMW X7, and Mercedes GLS.

What are some luxury features missing from the Lexus TX that Matt expected?

The Lexus TX is missing a few luxuries such as power controls for the second-row seats, power sunshades in the second row, and heated seats in the third row.

How does the base powertrain of the Lexus TX compare to the Acura MDX in terms of power and efficiency?

The base powertrain of the Lexus TX has a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, which is less powerful but more torqueful than the Acura MDX's base engine. However, it's also less efficient with a 23 MPG combined fuel economy compared to the MDX's 22 MPG.

What is the advantage of the Lexus TX 500h over the base model?

The Lexus TX 500h has a hybrid system with two electric motors that provide immediate torque, smoother gear shifts, and reduced turbo lag. It also comes standard with direct four all-wheel drive.

Why does Matt believe all-wheel drive should be standard on flagship SUVs like the Lexus TX?

Matt believes all-wheel drive should be standard on flagship SUVs because these vehicles represent the luxury brand's top offerings in terms of price, size, and prestige.

How does the exterior design of the Lexus TX compare to the Acura MDX?

The exterior design of the Lexus TX is described as frumpy and not as handsome as the Acura MDX. The TX has a boxy design for maximum headroom and cargo area, but the grille is considered awkward.

What are some of the driving experience cons mentioned for the Lexus TX?

Some cons of the driving experience include the need for more brake pedal pressure, a noticeable wind whistle, and a less agile feel due to the absence of the F Sport package and rear steer, making the vehicle feel big and cumbersome.

How does the price of the Lexus TX compare to the Acura MDX?

The base Lexus TX 350 in front-wheel drive starts at $55,000, which is $5,000 more than the Acura MDX's starting price. The all-wheel drive version of the TX 350 starts at $56,650, while the MDX's all-wheel drive version starts at $52,000.

What are the standout features of the Lexus TX's third row?

The Lexus TX's third row is spacious, with semi-automatic electric release for easy access, and it includes two seats for comfort, power recline, and air vents that are not present in the MDX.

What is the cargo space like in the Lexus TX compared to its competitors?

The Lexus TX offers class-leading cargo space with 20 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 cubic feet with the third row down, and up to 97 cubic feet with all seats down, which is almost on par with minivan levels of practicality.

What are some of the luxury features and technologies found in the Lexus TX?

The Lexus TX includes features like heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, climate concierge, a digital rearview mirror, a head-up display, a fully digital cluster screen, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and Lexus Safety Sense 3.0.