Inventory Listing

Thank you for your interest in this meticulously maintained 2008 Lexus RX 350 2WD, finished in the elegant Crystal White Pearl exterior with a complementary ivory leather interior. This vehicle represents the pinnacle of Lexus engineering from its era, blending refined luxury, proven reliability, and modern upgrades for an exceptional ownership experience. With 145,000 miles on the odometer, this two-owner example comes with a comprehensive Carfax report showing an accident in 2008 where airbags did not deploy, professionally repaired to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards with no structural damage. It boasts 24 service records, underscoring diligent maintenance, and holds a clean California title. Enhancing its appeal is an upgraded Pioneer double-DIN head unit featuring Apple CarPlay for seamless connectivity. Priced competitively in today’s market, this RX 350 offers tremendous value as a dependable daily driver or family hauler.

In the following summary, we’ll cover the vehicle’s essentials, generational history, performance specifications, competitive landscape, standout features, and the renowned reliability of its powertrain. Whether you’re seeking comfort, safety, or longevity, this Lexus delivers on all fronts.

Essentials:

• Mileage and Ownership: This RX 350 has accumulated 145,000 miles under just two owners, reflecting careful use and consistent care. The Carfax report confirms a single minor accident in 2008, repaired professionally to OEM specs without structural compromise or airbag deployment, ensuring integrity comparable to undamaged models
• Maintenance History: Backed by 24 detailed service records, this vehicle has received regular upkeep, including oil changes, brake work, and suspension checks, contributing to its smooth operation and extended lifespan.
• Title and Documentation: It carries a clean California title, free of liens or salvage history, providing peace of mind for registration and resale.
• Exterior and Interior: The Crystal White Pearl paint offers a premium, timeless sheen, paired with supple ivory leather seats that show minimal wear, creating an inviting cabin environment.
• Powertrain Specs: Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine (2GR-FE) mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, delivering 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque for responsive performance
• Fuel Efficiency: EPA-rated at 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, balancing power with reasonable economy for a mid-size luxury SUV.
• Safety Ratings: NHTSA awards this model 5 stars for frontal driver and passenger crash protection, 5 stars for side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, highlighting its robust safety engineering
• Modern Upgrades: Equipped with a Pioneer double-DIN head unit supporting Apple CarPlay, allowing for hands-free navigation, music streaming, and calls – a significant enhancement over the factory system.
• Drive Configuration: As a 2WD model, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and a lighter footprint while maintaining the RX’s signature smooth ride and handling.
• Value Proposition: With its Lexus badge, this SUV combines upscale amenities and reliability at a fraction of the cost of newer models, making it an ideal entry into luxury ownership.

Generational History: The Second-Generation Lexus RX (2003-2009)

The second-generation Lexus RX, internally coded as XU30, marked a significant evolution in the luxury crossover segment when it debuted in 2003 and continued production through 2009. Building on the success of the first-generation RX 300 (1998-2003), which pioneered the luxury SUV crossover category by blending sedan-like comfort with SUV versatility, the second iteration refined this formula with enhanced styling, technology, and performance. Introduced at the 2003 North American International Auto Show, it featured a more aerodynamic design, increased interior space, and advanced features like optional adaptive headlights and a rear-view camera. A mid-cycle facelift in 2006 brought updated front and rear fascias, LED taillights, and the transition from the RX 330 to the RX 350 model, incorporating a more powerful engine. This generation sold over 1 million units globally, solidifying Lexus’s dominance in the mid-size luxury SUV market. Production occurred primarily at Toyota’s plants in Japan and Canada, with the RX 350 emphasizing sustainability through improved emissions and fuel efficiency. By 2009, it paved the way for the third generation, but its enduring popularity stems from a perfect balance of innovation and reliability, making models like this 2008 example highly sought after in the used market.

Performance: Fuel Economy, Horsepower, and Torque

Under the hood, the 2008 Lexus RX 350 is equipped with Toyota’s acclaimed 3.5L V6 engine (2GR-FE), producing 270 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 RPM. This powerplant delivers smooth, linear acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.3 seconds – impressive for a vehicle of its size and class. Paired with a responsive 5-speed automatic transmission, it offers seamless shifts and a refined driving experience, whether navigating city streets or highways. Fuel economy is rated by the EPA at 18 mpg in city driving, 23 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined, which was competitive for a V6-powered luxury SUV in 2008. These figures reflect efficient multi-port fuel injection and variable valve timing, allowing for a balance of performance and thriftiness. Real-world testing often yields similar results, with owners reporting averages around 19-21 mpg with mixed driving. Compared to thirstier rivals, this efficiency helps keep operating costs low, especially with regular unleaded fuel compatibility, making it a practical choice for long commutes or family road trips.

Competitive Landscape: How the 2008 RX 350 Stacks Up

In the mid-2000s luxury crossover arena, the 2008 Lexus RX 350 faced stiff competition from vehicles like the Acura MDX, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (ML350), Audi Q7, BMW X5, and even its corporate cousin, the Toyota Highlander. Against the MDX, the RX 350 offered superior reliability and a quieter cabin, though the Acura edged out in handling dynamics and third-row seating options. The Mercedes M-Class provided more opulent interior materials and optional all-wheel drive prowess, but it suffered from higher maintenance costs and less favorable reliability ratings compared to the Lexus. The Audi Q7 boasted advanced technology and a premium feel, yet its complex electronics led to frequent repairs, contrasting the RX’s straightforward dependability. BMW’s X5 emphasized sporty driving but at the expense of ride comfort and long-term durability. Domestically, the Cadillac SRX offered bold styling and power, but lagged in refinement. Closer to home, the Toyota Highlander shared similar mechanicals at a lower price point, but lacked the Lexus’s upscale branding, leather quality, and sound insulation. Overall, the RX 350 excelled in value retention, owner satisfaction (often topping J.D. Power surveys), and low ownership costs, making it a benchmark for comfort-oriented buyers in this era

Best Features: Luxury, Comfort, and Modern Touches

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 shines with a host of premium features that define its luxury appeal. At the forefront is its spacious, ergonomically designed cabin, seating five comfortably with ample legroom and cargo space (up to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded). Standard amenities include dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, a power tilt-and-slide moonroof, and a premium audio system. Safety is bolstered by stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. The ride quality is exceptionally smooth, thanks to a fully independent suspension that absorbs road imperfections effortlessly. This particular example’s upgraded Pioneer double-DIN head unit with Apple CarPlay adds contemporary flair, enabling wireless integration for maps, podcasts, and calls – a rare modern convenience in a vehicle of this vintage. Other highlights include auto-dimming mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and HID headlights for enhanced visibility. The ivory leather interior not only elevates aesthetics but also provides heated seats for cooler days, while the wood trim accents underscore Lexus’s commitment to craftsmanship.

Powertrain Reliability: The Legendary 3.5L V6 and Its Legacy

The heart of this RX 350 is Toyota’s 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE), renowned for its bulletproof reliability and widespread use across the Toyota/Lexus lineup, including the Avalon, Sienna, Highlander, Camry, RAV4, and Lexus ES 350. This engine is engineered for longevity, often surpassing 200,000-300,000 miles with basic maintenance like regular oil changes (every 5,000-10,000 miles). Common praises include minimal oil consumption, robust construction, and resistance to major failures, with owners reporting trouble-free operation well into high mileage. A key upgrade from the previous RX 330’s 3.3L V6 (3MZ-FE) is the switch from a rubber timing belt (requiring replacement every 90,000 miles) to a durable metal timing chain that lasts the engine’s life, eliminating a costly service item and reducing long-term ownership expenses. The 2GR-FE also boosts power by 40 horsepower and improves efficiency through advanced variable valve timing (VVT-i) and a higher compression ratio, delivering smoother performance without sacrificing durability. While rare issues like timing chain cover gasket leaks can occur (addressable for under $1,000 if caught early), the engine’s track record is exemplary, earning it a spot among Toyota’s most reliable powerplants

Upscale Fit and Finish: The Lexus Difference

What truly sets the Lexus RX 350 apart is its upscale fit and finish, embodying the brand’s “Pursuit of Perfection” philosophy. The cabin is a sanctuary of premium materials, with soft-touch surfaces, genuine wood accents, and meticulously stitched ivory leather that ages gracefully. Noise insulation is class-leading, creating a whisper-quiet ride even at highway speeds, thanks to acoustic glass and underbody shielding. Build quality is impeccable, with tight panel gaps and durable components that resist wear – a stark contrast to some competitors’ plasticky interiors. This attention to detail extends to the exterior, where the Crystal White Pearl paint provides a lustrous, easy-to-maintain finish. Owners often compare it favorably to European luxury brands, noting the RX’s superior refinement without the premium pricing for repairs. In essence, this vehicle offers a Mercedes-like ambiance with Toyota reliability, making every drive feel indulgent.

In conclusion, this 2008 Lexus RX 350 is more than a used SUV – it’s a smart investment in comfort, safety, and enduring value. With its proven track record, modern upgrade, and low-mileage pedigree relative to its age, it stands ready to serve faithfully for years to come.