Comparison: 2018 RX 350L vs 2018 Acura MDX
Los Angeles shoppers looking for three-row luxury have a lot to choose from when it comes to finding one with the right dimensions. Some are too big, some not big enough, but riding that line of just right is the Lexus RX 350L and Acura MDX. Let’s see where they match up and how they differ from one another.
Performance
RX 350L
The RX 350L receives a 290 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and 8-speed automatic found in most Lexus models. Along with good power, it provides decent capability with 25 MPG highway and 18 MPG city estimated.
MDX
The Acura MDX also comes standard with a 290 horsepower 3.5-liter V6. Front-wheel models receive an estimated 23 MPG combined, while the optional SH-AWD sees 22 MPG, both the result of the MDX requiring premium fuel. MDX drivers have also noted that the 9-speed automatic doesn’t shift very smoothly.
Comfort and Convenience
RX 350L
The Lexus RX 350L offers the driver and passengers premium comfort. Aside from the standard (and much needed) power-folding third row, you’ll also see dual leather heated front seats, a power tilting/telescopic steering wheel and safety features, such as Pre-Collision, Lane Assistance, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control – yes, all standard. With the rear seats folded, you’ll find 56.3 cubic feet of storage space, good for transporting children to sports practice or dogs to the local park.
MDX
Like the Lexus RX 350L, the Acura MDX also comes standard with a full suite of safety features and was awarded the 2018 Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Heated leather seats come standard, however, an option for a power-folding third row is not.
As Acura is known as a ‘performance-first’ brand, those interested in the MDX will notice a firm, sometimes harsh, ride. It may handle corners faster, but could use suspension enhancements to ride as smoothly and perform as well, as a Lexus.
Pricing
RX 350L
Starting at $47,670 MSRP
MDX
Starting at $44,300 MSRP
Review: 2018 Lexus LC 500
The Lexus LC 500 is a remarkable vehicle that was designed by Lexus engineers to knock your socks off. It’s not only stunning inside and out, but a high-performance sports car that will have heads turning wherever you go.
Performance
At the heart of the LC 500 is a 471 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine and 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission that can take it from 0-60 in 4.8-seconds and with a top speed of 168 MPH.
To help balance the LC 500 between sports car and luxury cruiser, use Drive Mode Select to switch driving configurations to Sport S or Sport S+, which alters the throttle response or suspension characteristics accordingly. Or, if you choose, create a Custom mode based around your driving preferences for a more personalized experience.
Features and Technology
Even though the LC 500 can seat four, you’ll want to reserve the best seats in the house for yourself: the driver’s seat. With standard leather and 10-way power adjustable seats, you’ll stay relaxed during spirited drives.
The passenger cabin is nothing short of elegant. Most surfaces within the car are covered in plush materials with complementary metal accents. Alcantara upgrades are also available for the headliner and front seat inserts.
But what’s a Lexus if we give it performance and styling and don’t stack it with loads of in-car technology? That’s why we’ve equipped the LC 500 with standard navigation, satellite/HD radio, an 8-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.3-inch Lexus Enform infotainment display system. Available options include a 13-speaker Mark Levinson surround system and color heads-up display.
Pricing
Starts at $92,000 MSRP
Review: 2019 Lexus NX 300
Designed with style, performance, and safety in mind, the 2019 Lexus NX 300 is perfect for someone who’s in the market for a new and luxurious SUV. But we can’t just tell you how great it is; you need to see it to believe it.
Performance
The 2019 NX 300 includes a turbocharged, in-line 4 engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, you’ll receive 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway (estimated), or, with the hybrid model, 33 MPG city and 30 MPG highway (estimated) and all-wheel drive only.
Safety
The 2019 NX 300 earned a five-star overall vehicle score for safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration* and is equipped with a Lexus Safety System, featuring Lexus Enform Safety Connect, blind spot monitoring, rear back-up camera, Intuitive Parking Assist, Brake Assist, an eight-airbag system and more.
Comfort and Convenience
When it comes to comfort and design, the 2019 NX 300 is first in its class. The NX comes with a number of features including Premium Triple-Beam LED Headlamps with Adaptive Front-Lighting Systems, an outer-sliding moonroof, power front seats, electrochromic or auto-dimming outside mirrors, and dual-zone climate control.
Pricing
Starts at $36,185 MSRP
*Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). This 5-Star rating only refers to RX 350 AWD models built after January 24, 2017.
Comparison: ES 350 vs. Audi A4
If you’re looking for a reliable luxury sedan, consider the Lexus ES 350. Featuring a spacious, modern cabin, it includes in-car amenities that is expected of the Lexus brand. Compare the ES 350 against the Audi A4 ultra, and make an appointment to stop into Longo Lexus to speak with one of our representatives for more info and pricing.
Performance
Lexus ES 350
The 2018 Lexus ES 350 front-wheel-drive sedan has an electronically controlled 6-speed automatic transmission powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque which allows this iconic sedan to go from zero to 60 in 7.1 seconds. The Los Angeles drivers can commute with a little piece of mind knowing they get an EPA-estimated 20mpg city/29mpg highway/23mpg combined.
Audi A4
The A4 Ultra comes with an engine that produces 190-horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque and is only available with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive. All other A4 models are equipped with a turbo-4 engine that produces 252 horsepower; front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.
Comfort and Convenience
Lexus ES 350
Every 2018 Lexus ES model comes standard with NuLuxe interior trim, 10-way
power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control with air filters and
smog sensor, power moonroof, voice command, rain-sensing windshield wipers and SmartAccess with push-button Start/Stop. There are more available options include leather seating, heated/ventilated front seats, heated wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel, panorama glass roof and power trunk.
For an even more luxurious feel, consider adding the Luxury, Ultra Luxury or Premier Package to your ES 350, which can include features such as embossed-stitch perforated semi-aniline leather, wood trim, driver’s seat power cushion extender or premium wheels.
Audi A4
The lineup for A4 starts with Premium and allows you to choose upgrade to Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. The A4 ultra on the other hand is limited to only the Premium or Premium Plus trim levels. The Audi A4 comes standard with three-zone automatic climate control, Xenon headlights, a power moonroof, three-zone automatic climate control, standard leather and heated front seats, a 7.0-inch infotainment System, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice command capability and low-speed automatic emergency braking.
Premium Plus models upgrades the buyer to LED headlights, Bang & Olufsen audio with 19 speakers, and Audi advanced key – keyless start, stop and entry with hands-free trunk release.
The Prestige model tops the lineup with head-up display, adaptive cruise control, navigation, top view camera system and Audi Virtual Cockpit, where a 12.3-inch screen that replaces.
Pricing
Lexus ES 350
Starts at $38,900 MSRP
Audi A4
Starts at $36,000 MSRP
Comparison: Lexus NX vs. Audi Q5
Those looking for a vehicle with the performance of a sports car with the capability of an SUV should undoubtedly consider the Lexus NX crossover. See how the NX compares against the Audi Q5 and visit Longo Lexus to test drive one.
Performance
Lexus NX
The Lexus NX comes with two different powertrains: a standard 238-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, or hybrid using a specially tuned 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine with a two-motor hybrid system and all-wheel drive.
Audi Q5
The standard Q5 sports a 2.0-liter turbo-4 as its base engine, rated at 252 horsepower with 273 lb-ft of torque mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with standard all-wheel drive.
Comfort and Convenience
Lexus NX
Each Lexus NX is equipped with a Lexus Display Audio system with 8-inch color display, Scout GPS Link navigation, Remote Touchpad controls and an 8-speaker Premium Sound System. It also features Bluetooth technology, Siri Eyes Free, subscription-free traffic and weather and the Lexus Enform suite of apps, including Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote and Destination Assist.
Available options include a power rear door, Touch-Free Power Rear Door, heated front seats and steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Other available convenience features include a Navigation System with Lexus Enform App Suite 2.0, rain-sensing wipers and the Lexus Memory System.
Audi Q5
The Premium Q5 includes power front seats, windows and locks, a proximity key, leather upholstery, xenon headlights, satin finish roof rack and low-speed automatic emergency braking.
The Premium Plus model adds a power panoramic moonroof (which was previously standard on all models), LED headlights, blind-spot monitors, and automatic braking when backing up. The Prestige model goes full-tilt with 20-inch alloy wheels and 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio.
Safety and Tech
Lexus NX
The Lexus NX is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2018 Top Safety Pick, earning best-possible scores in all categories, including crashworthiness, crash avoidance and mitigation and child seat anchors ease of use. Also, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a 5-Star Overall Rating.
All models of the 2018 NX come standard with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Intelligent High Beams. Available options include a Panoramic View Monitor and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Intuitive Parking Assist.
Audi Q5
The NHTSA gave the Q5 a five-star overall rating including a four-star score for rollover safety, which is typical for SUVs. The IIHS named the Q5 a Top Safety Pick, and low-speed automatic emergency braking is standard on all models.
All Q5s include the expected airbags and stability control, plus a system that begins closing windows and the optional moonroof if a collision is detected, plus it’s also able to automatically brake to prevent an accident at speeds under 52 mph.
Pricing
Lexus NX
Starts at $35,985 MSRP
Audi Q5
Starts at $41,500 MSRP
Review: 2018 Lexus LS
Los Angeles drivers who are looking for luxury and high performance should consider the 2018 Lexus LS. This sedan features the high-profile style and power that are synonymous with the Lexus name.
Performance
The LS 500 has a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is available in either rear or all-wheel drive. The V6 produces 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.6-seconds with a maximum speed of 136 mph. The 10-speed automatic transmission that comes standard on the LS 500 is equipped with paddle shifters.
Features
The LS 500 comes with standard features, including cruise control, leather, climate control, navigation, Bluetooth/USB connectivity, active noise cancellation, 12.3″ display screen touchpad infotainment system with voice command to run phone, navigation and audio systems and 19-inch wheels.
Safety
The Lexus LS comes standard with a plethora of safety features, including forward-collision warnings with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, auto high beams and adaptive cruise control. The optional Advanced Safety package adds a pedestrian detection system with active steering, which can avoid obstacles at low speeds. Lexus also offers an HD head-up display that casts information across the bottom of the windshield.
Pricing
Starts at $75,000 MSRP
Comparison: Lexus RX 350 vs. Toyota Highlander
Los Angeles driver, are you looking for a midsized luxury SUV with a focus on performance, comfort, and all-around style? If so, then look no further. We all know how stressful new car shopping can be, so we’ve made the process a bit easier by comparing the Lexus RX 350 against the Toyota Highlander.
After reading our review, come to pay us a visit at Longo Lexus in El Monte and test drive your very own RX 350.
Performance
Lexus RX 350
The 2018 Lexus RX 350 includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission which produces 296 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to fuel efficiency, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models differ only slightly, with front-wheel drive getting 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway and all-wheel drive getting 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
The RX 350 is also available in the F Sport Package. This package adds a number of enhancements to the vehicle, including sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension with Sport S+ drive mode, sport-tuned Electronic Power Steering, paddle shifters, and a Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System.
Toyota Highlander
The 2018 Highlander LE model, which comes in front-wheel drive only, includes 2.7-liter inline-4 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission which produces 185 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
Along with this, you can choose to upgrade to a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 8-speed automatic transmission which produces 296 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This style can go between front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The LE trim has a towing capacity of up to 1,500 lbs, with higher trims having a capacity of 5,000 lbs.
Comfort and Convenience
Lexus RX 350
The RX 350 is standardly equipped with a black or stratus gray NuLuxe interior trim or optional leather seating. Leather color options include black, neutral parchment, and bold rioja red. The two-row, five-seat SUV also comes with dual-zone automatic climate control with interior air filter, a power tilting/telescoping steering wheel, leather-trimmed wheel and shift knob, power rear door, power-adjustable front seats, and 40/20/40 split-folding and reclining rear seats.
The RX 350 comes standard with an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rain-sensing windshield wipers that automatically react to the elements around you, allowing you to concentrate more on what is in front of you. Also included in this is Drive Mode Select which allows you to choose a performance mode according to specific weather or terrain. This vehicle also includes the Lexus Display Audio with Scout GPS Link navigation, voice command, Bluetooth tech, Siri Eyes Free, and the Lexus Enform suite of apps.
Toyota Highlander
Certain Highlander models come standard with a second-row bench that helps the Highlander seat up to eight people. All Highlander models include soft-touch dash and surfaces, as well as a 60/40 split-folding and reclining second row and a fold-flat third row.
Buyers can choose from a number of interior features including SofTex or leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, three-zone automatic climate control with second-row control panel, a Smart Key System, Driver Easy Speak microphone, and ambient lighting.
Pricing
Lexus RX 350
Starts at $43,270 MSRP
Toyota Highlander
Starts at $31,030 MSRP
Review: 2018 Lexus ES 300h
Drivers in the Los Angeles area shopping for an economical luxury sedan should come check us out at Longo Lexus and test drive the 2018 Lexus ES 300h. With its economical fuel economy, aggressive styling, exceptional comfort, and elegance that is expected with Lexus this ES 300h will give the driver everything they are looking for.
Performance
The ES 300h powertrain has a four-cylinder engine and electric motor with a combined output of 200 horsepower. The combo sends power to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. The ES 300h delivers a combined 40 mpg without losing any performance. The ES 300h also offers performance driving modes, Drive Mode Select enables the driver to make the ES Hybrid more responsive or more efficient with a turn of a dial. Sport Mode creates a faster sportier ride, Normal Mode will balance fuel efficiency and engine performance. ECO Mode moderates the throttle, engine power and climate settings for increased fuel efficiency.
Safety
The Lexus Safety System offers the most comprehensive safety system ever offered by Lexus. The Lexus Safety System is designed to help the driver with fewer collisions, and better-informed drivers. Standard features include a backup camera with dynamic gridlines, Intuitive parking assist, vehicle proximity notification system, smart stop technology, rain sensing wipers, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. These are just a few of the safety features that come standard on the Lexus ES 300h. Come see the full Lexus Safety System at Longo Lexus in El Monte.
Technology
The Lexus Enform App Suite comes standard on the ES 300h and offers access to applications through your center-console display. You can stream music, check fuel prices, and sports scores all from your center console. All of this can be done with voice recognition as well. A SmartAccess key allows you to lock, unlock, and start the push-button ignition all without having to take the keys out of your pocket.
Comfort and Convenience
The ES 300h comes standard with 10-way power, heated and ventilated front seats. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel allows for maximum comfort while driving. As you approach your ES 300h an illuminated entry system will welcome you into this luxurious hybrid. A power rear sunshade allows the passengers to achieve maximum comfort and avoid unwanted glares.
Pricing
Starting at $41,820 MSRP
Review: Lexus RC 350
A luxury coupe is the epitome of California luxury. Hold on to everything when you get into this luxurious, powerful vehicle, which blends performance with style and elegance. Be sure to come visit us in El Monte to test drive the Lexus RC 350.
Performance
The Lexus RC 350 features a dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence, designed to provide added torque at lower speeds and greater horsepower at higher speeds. The V6 engine combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission in the RC 350 produces 311 horsepower, while still achieving 28 mpg/highway. The V6 engine in the RC 350 rear wheel drive goes from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and 6.0 seconds in the all-wheel-drive model.
Safety
Standard features include a backup camera with dynamic gridlines, Intuitive parking assist, vehicle proximity notification system, smart stop technology, rain sensing wipers, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. These are just a few of the safety features that come standard on the Lexus ES 350. Come see the full Lexus Safety System at Longo Lexus in El Monte.
Technology
The Lexus RC 350 comes standard with a plethora of technical features which include, Lexus Enform Wi-Fi allowing passengers to connect up to five devices with a one-year complimentary trial. Also included is the next generation remote touchpad mimicking the operation of a smartphone to control multimedia, climate controls, and navigation. The RC 350 also comes standard with The Lexus Enform App Suite comes standard on the ES 300h offering access to applications through your center-console display. You can stream music, check fuel prices, and sports scores all from your center console.
Comfort and Convenience
The Lexus RC 350 offers all the luxury features that one expects in a Lexus. The RC 350 comes with leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, dual zone climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror that helps to reduce the glare from headlights behind you. Also included is illuminated door handles, USB equipped center console, and a 60/40 split-fold-down rear seat enabling you to transport larger items with ease.
Pricing
Starting at $43,570 rear wheel drive and $45,735 all-wheel drive.
Comparison: 2018 Lexus ES 350 vs 2018 Acura TLX
Drivers in the greater Los Angeles area shopping for a new luxury sedan ask us how the 2018 Lexus ES 350 compares to competitors like the 2018 Acura TLX. While Acura has made strides over the last decade, it still struggles to meet Lexus’ standards.
Below, we’ll give you all the details on how these two luxury sedans compare. Read on, then visit us in El Monte to test drive a Lexus.
Safety Ratings and Features
Lexus ES 350
The Lexus ES 350 was named a 2018 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning perfect scores in crashworthiness, front crash prevention, and child seat anchor ease of use. Plus, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a best-possible 5-Star Overall Rating.
All trims of the 2018 Lexus ES come standard equipped with a backup camera and the Lexus Safety System+, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and intelligent high-beam headlights. Also standard are rain-sensing wipers, LED headlamps and tail lamps, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect telematics system. Options include Intuitive Parking Assist, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and twin projector Bi-LED headlamps.
Acura TLX
The 2018 TLX was not named a top pick by the IIHS because it lost points for driver-side small front overlap impact and received a Marginal rating for child seat anchor ease of use. Additionally, the IIHS did not evaluate this model for passenger-side small front overlap impact. The NHTSA gave the 2018 TLX a 5-Star Overall Rating.
The TLX includes a standard multi-view rear camera, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, and Road Departure Mitigation. Upper trims add a Surround View Camera, parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.
Comfort and Entertainment
Lexus ES 350
The 2018 Lexus ES 350 comes standard with a power moonroof, SmartAccess, dual-zone climate control, 10-way power front seats, and perforated NuLuxe seating. All models also have Lexus Display Audio with 8-inch touchscreen, Scout GPS Link navigation, 8-speaker premium sound, Bluetooth wireless tech, HD Radio, subscription-free traffic and weather, and Enform apps.
Individual options include heated and ventilated front seats, wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel, panorama glass roof, power rear sunshade, and power open/close trunk. Ask your Longo Lexus rep about the features bundled in the Navigation, Mark Levinson Audio, Premium, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury packages.
Acura TLX
The 2018 TLX features standard sport seats with leatherette trim, 10-way driver’s seat, 4-way passenger’s seat, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, Keyless Access System, and a power moonroof. Basic entertainment features include 7-speaker audio, Aha compatibility, Sirius XM Radio, USB audio interface, and Bluetooth.
Only upper trims include an integrated navigation system, traffic rerouting, and the AcuraLink telematics system. Optional tech is similar to that found on the Lexus, but you won’t find deluxe interior accents like a wood and leather steering wheel.
To get the full Lexus experience, visit us in EL Monte to test drive the ES 350.
Pricing
Lexus ES 350
Starting at $38,950 MSRP
Acura TLX
Starting at $33,000 MSRP
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