I’m seriously thinking about getting a Lexus RX350. I’ve owned a 2005 Outback 3.0 LLBean and really loved it. The head gasket went at 170k, so I fixed it, but then there were some other issues, like the alternator failing around 210k, which stranded me, so I sold it. I got a message later saying it was sold to someone else around 250k miles, and after that, I’m not sure what happened with it. Then I bought a 2015 Outback 3.6R in late 2016 with just 3k miles on it. That car got totaled by insurance after being rear-ended, but I really loved it. It had 223k miles and I didn’t have to replace anything except for tires and oil. There was this “scary” transmission issue from the start that the dealer couldn’t replicate, but it drove fine. Over time, the rubbing sound got louder but didn’t affect the driving. I fixed it by using the paddle shifters instead of the automatic, but then the car got totaled. So now, I’m back in the market for a pre-owned car. My options are:
Lexus RX350: It’s comfortable, reliable, more luxurious, and new to me. It’s got decent looks, though not the best for my taste. Probably a quieter ride too.
Or another Outback (2018 or 2019) 3.6R. I’m just in love with them. The Gen3 and Gen5 Outbacks are gorgeous and unique. They have enough torque for fun without getting speeding tickets. They’re not too fast but quick enough, and they’re spacious and utilitarian. I love the subtle sound of that flat 6 engine.
Why would I want another Outback? It’s been reliable and checks all the boxes. The 2019 is the last year for the 3.6R engine, which is a bit sad. I’d prefer to see Subaru do a turbo version of that engine rather than moving to a 4-cylinder only. It’s almost my last chance for a great Outback, and I’m not fond of the new looks coming in 2026.
But I have some worries. Was I just lucky with my Outbacks? I’ve heard of some issues with radio delaminating and mysterious battery drains. What else should I be worried about? Sorry for the long post – hope Outback lovers will understand. Any advice?
I have a 2019 Outback Premium and my wife drives a 2018 Lexus RX350. They’re totally different vehicles. I love the Outback because it’s practical – better gas mileage, all-wheel drive, and I can easily mount kayaks with the built-in roof rack and haul bikes with the hitch. You can do that with the Lexus too, but why would you buy a luxury SUV just for that? My wife enjoys driving the Lexus for short trips, but I find it nice inside, though a bit boring to drive.
@Darwin
I imagine the Lexus has some pickup though? I’d need a hitch for the bike rack, so I’d be getting a Lexus RX with a hitch!
Clarkson said:
@Darwin
I imagine the Lexus has some pickup though? I’d need a hitch for the bike rack, so I’d be getting a Lexus RX with a hitch!
The Outback Touring XT will easily beat the Lexus RX350. Speed isn’t everything, but the RX is 0-60 in 7.2 seconds.
Clarkson said:
@Darwin
I imagine the Lexus has some pickup though? I’d need a hitch for the bike rack, so I’d be getting a Lexus RX with a hitch!
I checked, and you’re right. The Outback Touring XT does 0-60 in 5.8 seconds (2023 model).
I was leaning toward the Lexus too, but in the end, I needed more space, so I went with the Outback.
Toyota makes solid powertrains. How much time do you plan to spend in the car? How do you like the Lexus? I work in the vehicle industry, and when I was showing off my new Outback at work, my VP kept opening and closing the doors. He said, ‘Good sound!’ He drives a Lexus and hates the door sounds (like tin on tin). To me, the Subaru feels better built. I don’t see what the Lexus adds aside from boring reliability. It doesn’t seem more luxurious than the Touring XT.
@Vale
I spent $6k fixing the transmission in my RX350 at 110k miles.
I’d go for a 2019 3.6 or a low-mileage 2022 Wilderness. The RX350 is nice and reliable, but it’s kind of boring. Also, it’s at a higher price point.
Nevan said:
I’d go for a 2019 3.6 or a low-mileage 2022 Wilderness. The RX350 is nice and reliable, but it’s kind of boring. Also, it’s at a higher price point.
Wouldn’t the 2022 Wilderness be a 4-cylinder 2.4L turbo? I really want the 3.6 6-cylinder.
@Clarkson
If you need the 6-cylinder, you’re stuck with the 2019 or older. The turbo has more horsepower and torque, and Subaru’s do not have torque steer like other turbo engines. The Gen 6 frame is stiffer, so it handles better.