By Prashirwin Naidu
While driving the 2024 Lexus RX350 F Sport, I was reminded of my uncle, Morgan Naidu, and his passion for cars. He once drove a sleek black Lexus IS 250 XE20, which sparked my love for the Japanese luxury brand. It was futuristic, striking, modern and beautiful. One of my earliest memories, at five years old, is of the stunning gloss-black Lexus IS 250 parked in my uncle’s garage. My legs were too short to reach the pedals, and to my wide-eyed, young self, it seemed enormous and mesmerising.
Uncle Morgan was the cool, charismatic uncle, with an unmatched love for both family and cars. Even after his stomach cancer diagnosis in 2010, he continued to pursue his passion for motoring until his passing in 2012. He always found ways to bring together his beloved family – Mary, Oliver, and Layla – and some shiny, new test car. Fast forward to the 22-year-old me, I smiled as the new 2024 Lexus RX350 F Sport arrived in my driveway, bringing back fond memories of my beloved Uncle Morgan.
Interior and technology
As I sat inside, grinning with excitement, I noticed this beauty had some quirky features. For example, the reverse camera plays a catchy tune while reversing or driving. Style is one thing – a car can look good, but does it deliver on excitement?
Yes, the RX350 F Sport delivers in every way. The cabin exudes luxury, with everything thoughtfully designed.
The large 14-inch infotainment screen is clear, crisp, and highly responsive. It has a modern feel but retains traditional climate and volume control buttons, which I appreciate. Some modern cars require everything to be accessed through the infotainment screen, which I’m not a fan of. Additional features include the entry/exit system and the electronic push-button door system, both of which operate quietly. There are no audible locking sounds; instead, the lights flicker to indicate locking.
One has to triple-check, especially if you’re as meticulous as I am. The leather seats are cosy and comfortable, even more so than those in a Range Rover Velar. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system is delightful for musical symphonies—sweet and easy on the ears. The sky’s the limit with an array of 64 ambient lighting colours. While it may not match the Mercedes-Benz GLC standard, it still looks smart and luxurious.
Performance
The RX looks modern and classy with its assertive exterior, giving it some street cred. However, on the road, it’s a different story. The ‘F’ Sport badge doesn’t necessarily mean it’s powerful or performance-focused; it’s just a styling kit.
But don’t worry; it has a smooth, easy-going temperament and plenty of power.
Let’s address a few issues. I’m not a fan of the engine sound, especially when you accelerate hard. The high revs are not to my taste. Additionally, the beeps from the safety systems, particularly the lane-keeping assist, can be annoying. Other than that, there’s not much else to complain about.
It’s practical yet moves and glides with elegance. A family would be very satisfied with it. The Lexus RX350 F Sport offers plenty of power. My model had a 2.4-litre turbo-petrol engine with a smooth 8-speed transmission. It also features an AWD system, providing extra stability on gravel, roads, sand, or mud. The Lexus RX350 F Sport is a great companion and comes fully equipped with no need for additional options.
At just under R1.6 million, it’s not cheap, but it competes well with rivals like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and Volvo XC90.
The Lexus comes with a 7-year/105,000 km warranty and maintenance plan. It offers good value for money and is a strong contender. Uncle Morgan would have approved.
