Are used Lexus RX models worth the current market price?

Question

Are used Lexus RX models actually worth the prices people are asking right now or am i just paying for the name? Ive been looking for a 2017 to 2020 RX 350 in the Raleigh area and most of the clean ones are still sitting around $30k to $35k even with 60k miles on them. I have about $32,000 saved up and I need something reliable because my old Ford is literally falling apart and I have a 45 minute commute to the hospital every morning so i cant be stuck on the side of the road.

I did some digging on car forums and most people swear by the reliability of the 3.5L V6 engine saying it'll go 200k miles easy but then i read some reviews saying the infotainment system and that weird trackpad thing is a total nightmare to use while driving. It makes me wonder if I should just get a newer Mazda or something with less miles for the same money. Is the Lexus tax actually worth it for the build quality or am I gonna regret buying a 5 year old car for the same price as a brand new crossover? Everyone says they hold their value but if the market cools down soon i dont want to be underwater on a car that feels like it is from 2015 inside...

qhtnhzeqez · Accepted Answer

Honestly, that Lexus tax is actually an investment in your sanity! I have seen the 2018 Lexus RX 350 AWD hit 200k miles with basically zero issues, which is exactly what you need for that hospital commute. You are paying for a level of engineering that most brands just cant touch. That 3.5L V6 is legendary for a reason and it will easily outlast your old Ford by a decade.

Build quality is fantastic and the cabin remains silent even after 60k miles.

Resale value is amazing so you wont be underwater even if the market shifts.

The safety features are top notch and perfect for early morning drives. The trackpad in the 2019 Lexus RX 350 is definitely a bit clunky, but you totally get used to it after a few days. If you really want something newer, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition is a great alternative with better tech, but it wont feel as heavy or luxurious as the Lexus. Trust me, spending $32k on a clean Lexus is way better than buying a brand new budget crossover that feels like a tin can inside. Grab a well-maintained 2020 Lexus RX 350 and you will love it!

yymemyzflp · Answer

Saw this earlier. Being in your shoes last year taught me to be careful with those early 8-speed gearboxes... they hunt for gears. A Acura MDX 3.5L V6 SH-AWD was also on my list.

Lexus: Incredible NVH levels, but the trackpad is a mess.

Acura: Better mechanical AWD, tho less premium inside. I would suggest checking the transmission software history so you dont get jerky shifts.

inpyruoqmz · Answer

The 2GR-FKS engine in that Lexus RX 350 3.5L V6 is a literal work of art! Those high-grade seals and D-4S dual injection system are unmatched for longevity. If that trackpad is a dealbreaker, definitely test drive the Mazda CX-9 Signature 2.5T AWD. The low-end torque is fantastic and the cabin feels way more modern for $32k. TL;DR: Youre paying for superior mechanical tolerances!