Lexus RX F Sport 2017: Review, Specs, And Performance

by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of luxury SUVs, specifically the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport. If you're in the market for a vehicle that blends comfort, style, and a touch of sportiness, you've probably already considered this one. Let’s break down what makes the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport stand out in a crowded field.

Overview of the Lexus RX F Sport 2017

The Lexus RX has always been a popular choice in the luxury SUV segment, and the F Sport trim takes it up a notch. The 2017 model continues this tradition, offering a more aggressive appearance and slightly enhanced performance features compared to the standard RX. It's not just about looks, though; the F Sport aims to deliver a more engaging driving experience.

Exterior Styling

One of the first things you’ll notice about the F Sport is its distinctive exterior. It features a unique mesh grille, exclusive to the F Sport models, which gives it a more aggressive and sporty look. The rear spoiler is also tweaked for a more dynamic appearance, and the F Sport badging lets everyone know you’re driving something a little special. The overall design is modern and sleek, maintaining the luxurious appeal that Lexus is known for. The exterior design is not just for show; it also contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency and stability at higher speeds. You'll find that the attention to detail in the exterior styling sets it apart from other SUVs in its class. From the sharp lines to the carefully crafted curves, the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport makes a statement wherever it goes.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside, you're greeted with a cabin that’s both luxurious and functional. The F Sport trim includes sport seats with enhanced bolsters, providing better support during spirited driving. The interior is decked out with aluminum trim, which adds a touch of modern sophistication. As for technology, the 2017 RX F Sport comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment display, which is controlled by Lexus's Remote Touch Interface. While some find the interface a bit cumbersome, it offers a wide range of features, including navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. The Mark Levinson premium audio system is also available, delivering exceptional sound quality for your favorite tunes. In terms of comfort, the seats are plush and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The rear seats also offer ample legroom, ensuring that passengers in the back are just as comfortable. The interior is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is a comfortable and tech-filled space that enhances the driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Now, let’s talk about what’s under the hood. The 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. While it’s not a sports car, the F Sport offers a more engaging driving experience compared to the standard RX models. The F Sport package includes a sport-tuned suspension, which provides a firmer ride and better handling. It also features paddle shifters, allowing you to take control of the gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions. The engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, and the transmission shifts seamlessly to keep you in the optimal gear. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport strike a good balance between comfort and sportiness, making it a fun and capable SUV to drive.

Engine and Transmission

The heart of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, which delivers a robust 295 horsepower. This engine is known for its smooth and refined power delivery, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. The eight-speed automatic transmission complements the engine perfectly, providing seamless and quick gear changes. Whether you're accelerating from a stop or cruising on the highway, the engine and transmission work together to deliver a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. The engine's power is readily available, making it easy to overtake other vehicles or merge onto the highway. The transmission's smooth shifts contribute to the overall comfort and refinement of the ride. The combination of the powerful engine and the responsive transmission makes the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport a pleasure to drive. You'll appreciate the smooth and effortless performance, whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip. The engine and transmission are well-matched, providing a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

Driving Dynamics

The driving dynamics of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport are enhanced by its sport-tuned suspension, which provides a firmer ride and improved handling. This means you'll experience less body roll in corners and a more connected feel to the road. The F Sport also features a unique steering calibration, which gives it a more precise and responsive feel. While it's not a sports car, the F Sport offers a more engaging driving experience compared to the standard RX models. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback, allowing you to confidently navigate through traffic. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions, giving you added peace of mind. Overall, the driving dynamics of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport strike a good balance between comfort and sportiness, making it a fun and capable SUV to drive.

Key Features of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport

Sport-Tuned Suspension

The sport-tuned suspension is one of the key features that sets the F Sport apart from other RX models. This suspension provides a firmer ride and improved handling, allowing you to confidently tackle corners and enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The suspension is designed to minimize body roll and provide a more connected feel to the road. While it does provide a firmer ride, it's not harsh or uncomfortable. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The sport-tuned suspension is a key ingredient in the F Sport's enhanced driving dynamics, making it a fun and capable SUV to drive.

Unique Exterior Styling

As mentioned earlier, the unique exterior styling of the F Sport sets it apart from other RX models. The mesh grille, rear spoiler, and F Sport badging give it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. The overall design is modern and sleek, maintaining the luxurious appeal that Lexus is known for. The exterior design is not just for show; it also contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency and stability at higher speeds. The attention to detail in the exterior styling sets it apart from other SUVs in its class. From the sharp lines to the carefully crafted curves, the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport makes a statement wherever it goes.

Enhanced Interior Details

The enhanced interior details of the F Sport add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the cabin. The sport seats with enhanced bolsters provide better support during spirited driving, while the aluminum trim adds a modern touch. The interior is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. The seats are plush and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The rear seats also offer ample legroom, ensuring that passengers in the back are just as comfortable. The interior of the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is a comfortable and tech-filled space that enhances the driving experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Sporty Styling: The F Sport trim gives the RX a more aggressive and eye-catching look.
  • Enhanced Handling: The sport-tuned suspension provides a more engaging driving experience.
  • Comfortable Interior: The cabin is well-appointed and offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
  • Reliable Performance: The V6 engine delivers smooth and reliable power.

Cons

  • Remote Touch Interface: Some users find the infotainment system a bit cumbersome.
  • Ride Quality: The sport-tuned suspension can be a bit firm for some drivers.
  • Fuel Economy: While decent, the fuel economy is not the best in its class.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is a great choice for those looking for a luxury SUV that offers a blend of style, comfort, and performance. While it may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, it offers a more engaging driving experience compared to the standard RX models. The F Sport's unique exterior styling and enhanced interior details set it apart from the competition. If you value reliability, luxury, and a touch of sportiness, the 2017 Lexus RX F Sport is definitely worth considering.