Performance, Safety, Interior, Pros & Cons
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 marks a major shift in design and driving character, and you’ll notice that immediately the moment you see it. This model introduced a more aggressive exterior look, which helped it stand out on Nigerian roads where the previous shape had become very common. If you want something that feels newer in both appearance and driving experience, this is where things start to change.
Under the hood, the 2016 Lexus RX 350 still runs a V6 engine, but it is paired with an updated transmission that improves how power gets to the wheels. You’ll feel the difference when accelerating in traffic or merging onto faster roads. It responds better than earlier versions, giving you more confidence during everyday driving in cities like Port Harcourt or Lagos.
Fuel economy is also slightly improved, which matters when you’re dealing with daily fuel expenses. While it’s still a V6 SUV, the efficiency gains make a noticeable difference over time, particularly if you drive frequently.
Inside the cabin, the redesign is even more obvious. The interior feels more modern, with updated technology and a layout that focuses on driver interaction. You get better infotainment features and improved seating comfort, which becomes important during long trips or heavy traffic.
Safety and build quality also see improvements, with more advanced features included as standard. This gives you a stronger sense of control and protection while driving.
As you continue, you’ll want to look closely at how this model performs in Nigeria, including pricing, maintenance habits, fuel consumption, spare parts access, and the issues that tend to come up with regular use.
Read: Official information about the 2016 Lexus RX 350
₦40.5M
₦32M
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The 2016 Lexus RX 350 price in Nigeria sits in a higher bracket due to its newer body design and stronger demand in the local market. Foreign used units generally sell between ₦39,000,000 and ₦42,000,000. Nigerian used versions are more accessible, usually priced from ₦30,000,000 to ₦34,000,000.
Pricing at the lower end are for vehicles with higher mileage or minor accident history. Many of these may require immediate spending on tyres, brake systems, or infotainment repairs or other minor issues. Mid-range pricing gives you better value, with moderate mileage and fewer cosmetic issues. At the top end, you are paying for cleaner Tokunbo units with lower mileage and intact factory specifications.
Import duty and shipping costs have pushed Tokunbo prices upward over the past few years. Dealers factor in clearing expenses, port charges, and currency fluctuations when setting prices. That is why two similar vehicles can have noticeably different price tags.
If you are buying Nigerian used, the service history becomes very important. A Lexus RX 350 2016 that is maintained well with verified mileage often justifies a higher asking price. Your budget should also consider registration, insurance, and minor refurbishment costs after purchase.
Explore the 2016 Rx 350 price on jiji
Naturally Aspirated V6
Automatic
Mid-Size Luxury SUV
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 engine performance introduces an updated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. When you accelerate, you immediately feel the increase in power compared to earlier designs, with stronger pull as the revs climb. The extra gears in the transmission help the engine stay within its power band, so acceleration feels more responsive in everyday driving.
In Nigerian traffic, where frequent braking and acceleration are unavoidable, the gearbox adapts quickly. Gear changes occur without noticeable lag, and the engine responds well when you need to quickly close gaps or switch lanes. The throttle tuning feels precise, so your foot input directly translates into motion without delay.
Driving on rough roads, the engine maintains steady output even when the suspension is working hard. When you encounter potholes or uneven surfaces, the drivetrain keeps traction stable without sudden jerks. On highways, the V6 engine shows strong mid-range power, allowing confident overtaking without pushing the engine too hard.
Fuel response feels more efficient due to the 8-speed transmission, which keeps revs lower at cruising speeds. At 100 to 120 km/h, the engine runs at relaxed RPM levels, reducing strain during long-distance trips. If equipped with all-wheel drive, you gain extra grip on slippery roads during heavy rain. The 2016 model gives you a stronger and more responsive driving feel with improved acceleration and better gear control.
See what’s new about the 2016 Lexus RX 350
City: 20, Hwy: 27
8.5km/l
11.5km/l
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 marks a major shift in fuel economy for Nigerian buyers because Lexus introduced the newer body, lighter structure, and 8-speed automatic. Combined economy climbs to about 10 km/l for FWD models. That gain over the 2015 model shows up quickly in Nigerian fuel bills, more so for drivers who face daily traffic en-route often
Real-world figures still depend on traffic pressure and AC load. Most owners in Nigeria will record 6.5 to 8 km/l in dense urban use, while open-road runs can touch 10 to 11.5 km/l. The gearbox’s taller top ratios help cut fuel use on long inter-state drives, which gives this year a real cost edge over the outgoing version.
Running cost moves upward slightly in maintenance because the 2016 introduces more sensors, more body electronics, and costlier front lighting units. Routine oil service still stays manageable, often below ₦100,000 with original filters and synthetic oil. Tyres, brake pads, and lower arm bushes may demand attention sooner on bad roads.
For Nigerians who drive 2,000 km monthly, the 2016 can save a visible amount in petrol spend across a year when compared with 2015, which makes it one of the smarter RX 350 years for ownership economics especially this period where fuel price spiked to 39.5% which is the second highest globally after Vietnam due to many factors including the Iran war.
See EPA fuel economy rating for the 2016 RX
Average
High
High
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 introduced a new body platform, and that shift affects spare parts sourcing and workshop approach in Nigeria. Engine service parts still circulate widely, as the 2GR-FKS engine shares strong Toyota/Lexus lineage, so filters, plugs, coils, and fuel system components remain
available across major markets. This year uses a newer 8-speed transmission, and Nigerian automatic specialists now handle fluid service, solenoid checks, and control module faults with growing confidence. Gearbox repairs cost more than older models, yet tokunbo transmissions and used control units now appear more frequently in Berger Auto Market.
The suspension system uses revised geometry, and parts such as lower arms, shock absorbers, and wheel hubs now command higher prices due to newer design. You will encounter sensor-related faults more often, including parking sensors, radar modules, and throttle body sensors, and these parts still cost more than older RX models.
AC repairs focus on evaporator sensors, compressor valves, and climate control modules, and workshops in the country already stock replacement units. Electronic systems like the infotainment screens and steering controls require more diagnostic skill, yet trained Lexus technicians in major cities now handle these repairs without delay.
Compare with previous year
In 2016, Lexus debuted the all-new fourth-generation RX 350 with a much bigger, more opulent cabin. The seats were redesigned with ergonomic cushioning and vertical stitching for durability. The steering wheel and controls moved closer to the driver, a concept Lexus calls Tazuna, so everything feels within reach.
Soft-touch plastics covered the dash and doors, trimmed by available wood or aluminum accents. The infotainment screen (8″ standard, 12.3″ optional) and Remote Touch knob ran Lexus’s systems. Passengers gained extra spac, front headroom and rear legroom grew thanks to a 2-inch longer wheelbase
Nigerians noticed that the climate system remained very strong, and tinted windows plus a cabin filter still kept heat and dust out. The new cabin’s comfort lived up to the hype: families found it roomy and homely.
See Lexus RX 350 2016 Interior photos
8 - 10
Yes
Yes
The 2016 Lexus RX 350 introduces a full redesign, and this is where safety engineering takes a major step forward. The platform shifts to a more rigid unibody structure with improved crash energy distribution. In IIHS testing, the vehicle earns “Good” ratings in small overlap, moderate overlap, side impact, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations, confirming strong occupant protection across all major crash types.
The structural cage shows controlled intrusion levels during crash testing, which means the cabin maintains survival space during impact. The reinforced A-pillars, rocker panels, and firewall area contribute to this improvement. Roof strength also increases compared to the previous generation, indicating better rollover protection.
A major shift appears in safety technology. Lexus introduces Lexus Safety System+ as an available package, bringing forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control into the RX lineup. This marks the beginning of modern active safety integration.
Build quality also changes in character. Lexus uses lighter but stronger materials, including high-tensile steel in key structural zones. Panel fitment remains tight, and chassis stiffness improves handling stability over rough roads. However, this is the first year of a new generation, so minor electronic and sensor-related inconsistencies can appear over time.
From a pure safety engineering standpoint, 2016 represents a significant upgrade over 2015 due to its redesigned crash structure and introduction of advanced driver assistance systems.
Check: IIHS safety rating for the 2016 RX
The 2016 model did not change much, so it carried over the same oil leakage issue from the 2015. The engine still leaks oil from the timing cover after some time. Many owners fix it, only for it to come back again later. So if you are buying one, check under the engine very well for fresh oil stains.
There were also some important recalls. One affected the airbag system, and another affected the braking system. If these were not fixed, you might see warning lights on the dashboard or experience weak braking. Always confirm that both issues have been handled before buying.
Apart from that, the car is generally stable. The engine, gearbox, and driving feel remain solid. But in Nigeria, where heat and fuel quality are not always great, small issues can get worse quickly.
So the main thing here is simple. Check for oil leaks and confirm recall repairs. If those are sorted, the 2016 RX 350 will serve you well without stress.
See what 2016 Lexus RX 350 users have to say on:
Below is a balanced breakdown of the key advantages and drawbacks of the Lexus RX 350, based on real Nigerian ownership, performance expectations, and typical use cases.
No, the standard Lexus RX 350 does not use a CVT transmission. Most versions of the RX 350 use a conventional automatic transmission, such as a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic depending on the generation. The hybrid variants of the RX lineup, however, use an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).
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Dreamcar.ng reviews are produced by a research-driven team with direct exposure to auto market across Nigerian cities. Our analysis is based on dealership interactions, discussions with mechanics, observed market pricing patterns, and independent research. Each review reflects real Nigerian ownership conditions including fuel quality, road conditions, spare parts accessibility, maintenance realities, and long-term running costs, to help buyers make informed and practical decisions.” add this seamlessly “everythin depends on trim level but we talk more on the more rampant trims on Nigerian road.