The 2017 Lexus RX lasts around 300,000 miles with some minor ventilated seat and push button start issues reported. At $28,500 to $40,900, it’s a fantastic value for a luxury SUV with fewer mechanical problems than the rest of the competition.
Is the 2017 Lexus RX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 9/10 – 2017 is a good year for the Lexus RX since it offers plenty of luxury features paired with good reliability. Owner reviews praise the low ownership costs, advanced technology, and the overall build quality.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are very nice for a midsize SUV, the seats are comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also average for its size.
- Reliability 10/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2017 Lexus RX. In general models from 2008–2022 are all very reliable choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the standard V6 engine, although it’s not as powerful as some of its German competitors.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2017 Lexus RX is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, along with adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, giving 422 miles of range from the 19.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $10 higher than average, at $238 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2017 Lexus RX is more expensive than some other SUVs, although excellent long-term reliability ratings and low ownership costs make it a great value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Lexus RX?
- Consumer Reports says the 2017 Lexus RX has a driving experience that accentuates comfort and luxury, with high owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds gives the 2017 RX a 3.7/5, praising the top-quality cabin materials, but doesn’t like the smaller cargo area.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the RX at 4.1/5, praising the excellent luxury features for the price, but owners don’t like the weaker engine than some competitors.
What Common Problems Does the 2017 Lexus RX Have?
Common problems found on the 2017 Lexus RX include the ventilated seats not working properly, push-button start issues, along with automatic rain sensors being unresponsive. Overall, these problems are relatively minor compared to other luxury SUVs, leading to lower repair bills as the RX ages.
The ventilated seats not working properly is the most widespread complaint from 2017 Lexus RX owners, showing up at around 1,500 miles. Usually the problem is simply caused by a disconnected ventilation tube, or a blend door not operating properly. Fixing the issue is usually covered under warranty, although out of warranty it’s around $100 worth of labor.
Push-button start issues have also been reported by some 2017 RX owners at roughly 20,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by a dead battery in the key fob. Placing your key fob directly on the start/stop button will allow the vehicle to turn on. Changing out the battery in the fob costs around $3.
The automatic rain sensors being unresponsive is another issue mentioned by 2017 Lexus RX owners at roughly 20,000 miles. The problem is usually simply caused by a dirty sensor. Cleaning off the area on the windshield near the rearview mirror can help improve the reliability of the system. If the sensor fails it’s roughly $400 to replace.
There are three recalls on the 2017 Lexus RX, which is fewer than other luxury vehicles. The most serious recalls cover the fuel pump, which may fail. Lexus will replace the fuel pump in affected models for free. The other recall covers the brake assist vacuum pump, which Lexus will also replace.
How Long Will the 2017 Lexus RX Last?
A well-maintained 2017 Lexus RX can last around 300,000 miles, which is longer than other midsize luxury SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than some other high-end SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $836 per year.
As a used 2017 Lexus RX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the mass airflow sensor for $300, the oxygen sensor costing $475, along with the throttle body which costs $600.
I have never had any problems since the beginning.. I have had questions about different functions, but no problems.
It is a very reliable vehicle. I keep the maintenance up in it but it gives me zero problems in-between appointments. I love this car. The only thing I do not like is the navigation system seems to behind in technology compared to other similar cars in its class. I love the 360 degree cameras for parking.
So far it has been very reliable. The computer software has a few small glitches though. Very user friendly but can be intimidating.
So far it does not have any problems. It is still under warranty which is a huge plus. I take it to the dealer for scheduled maintenance visits and oil changes.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good with a standard 8-inch display screen. Optional upgrades include a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with more app connectivity, along with a Mark Levinson stereo system.
Standard safety technology is fantastic for an SUV, and the Lexus Safety System offers:
- Rearview camera
- Lane departure alert
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
Is the 2017 Lexus RX a Good Value?
Yes, the 2017 Lexus RX is a good value since you get a great mix of luxury and high long-term reliability ratings as it ages. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $28,500 to $40,900, making it more than a Volvo XC90 or Acura MDX. When new, the price range was $43,220 to $50,520. Depreciation is better than most other luxury SUVs, only losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Lexus RX?
There are two main models of the 2017 Lexus RX offered including the Base and F Sport. The RX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an upgrade.
Base is the entry-level model with:
- 5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive (All-wheel drive optional)
- 18-inch wheels
- Automatic LED headlights and high beams
- LED fog lights and running lights
- Rear privacy glass
- Power liftgate
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Simulated-leather upholstery
- Eight-way power-adjustable front seats
- Power-adjustable steering wheel
- 40/20/40-split rear seat
- Standard safety features: rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, Safety Connect emergency communications, Safety System+ package (lane departure warning and intervention, forward collision warning and mitigation with automatic emergency braking)
- Tech features: Bluetooth, 8-inch display screen, smartphone-integrated navigation system, nine-speaker sound system
F Sport is the sport model, adding:
- Sportier exterior styling
- 20-inch wheels
- Adaptive suspension dampers
- Enhanced engine sound
- Transmission paddle shifters
- Unique gauges
- Heated and ventilated sport seats
- Leather upholstery
- Unique interior trim
- All-wheel drive available
Optional Features Include:
- Premium Package: Roof rails, auto-dimming side mirrors, automatic wipers, driver-seat memory functions, leather upholstery, wood trim, rear armrest storage compartment
- Navigation Package: Navigation system, Remote Touch tech interface, larger 12.3-inch display (optional), voice controls, Lexus Enform App Suite, 12-speaker sound system
- Luxury Package: Adds to Premium package with 20-inch wheels with choice of color inserts, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear door sunshades, upgraded leather upholstery, four-way lumbar adjustment for the front seats, heated rear seats, power-folding/reclining rear seatbacks
- Rear-seat entertainment system (Optional with Luxury Package): Two 11.6-inch adjustable screens, DVD player, HDMI port, 120-volt household-style power outlet
- Stand-alone options: Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, panoramic-view backup camera, regular or panoramic sunroof, towing package (with an upgraded cooling system), front and rear parking sensors, hands-free power liftgate, upgraded LED headlights, color head-up display, heated steering wheel, 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system
What Engines Come In the Lexus RX?
This 2017 Lexus RX features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower at up to 23 MPG for the front-wheel drive version, and 22 MPG for the all-wheel drive models. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time is estimated at around 7.7 seconds, which is okay for a midsize SUV.
What Colors Does the Lexus RX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Lexus RX?
The 2017 Lexus RX is known for providing an excellent degree of comfort, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed and luxurious ride. The vehicle’s interior is outfitted with top-notch materials, lending an air of opulence to its design. The seating arrangement offers abundant space for both front and rear occupants, providing comfort for all passengers on short drives and longer trips alike.
For the driver, the 2017 RX comes with a well-crafted cockpit that is both ergonomic and user-friendly, making navigation and controlling various in-car features easy and intuitive. The seats, upholstered in high-quality leather in most trims, offer plenty of adjustments for optimal driving position and comfort. Many models are equipped with heated and ventilated seats for additional coziness in various weather conditions.
The ride quality of the 2017 Lexus RX is also noteworthy, offering a smooth and quiet ride, courtesy of its well-tuned suspension system. As for noise isolation, Lexus engineers have gone to great lengths to minimize cabin noise, providing peaceful journeys even at highway speeds.
How Much Storage Space Does the Lexus RX Have?
The 2017 Lexus RX, a highly-regarded model in the luxury midsize SUV segment, provides ample storage capacity for the daily needs of most drivers and their passengers. Specifically, the cargo area offers a total of 18.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This may not be the most generous amount in its class, but it’s certainly enough to accommodate your typical grocery shopping haul, a couple of medium-sized suitcases, or some sporting equipment like a golf bag or two.
If more room is required, the 2017 RX shows its versatility by offering a folding rear seat mechanism. With the rear seats folded down, the total cargo space expands to a sizable 56.3 cubic feet. This added flexibility allows the RX to accommodate larger items, such as a bicycle, a small piece of furniture, or a significant number of moving boxes. It also enables this Lexus SUV to transform into a capable vehicle for road trips, camping adventures, or any situation that requires carrying a large amount of cargo. Therefore, while the RX may not be the class leader regarding storage capacity, it certainly remains a versatile and practical option within the luxury midsize SUV market.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Lexus RX was introduced for the 2016 model year.
2015: Standard 7-inch display screen and rearview camera, optional LED headlights, and new Crafted Line model.
2016: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new exterior, interior, technology, and more luxurious cabin.
2017: More standard safety features, F Sport package introduced.
2018: No changes from earlier years.
2019: Lexus Enform Connect smartphone apps added.
2020: Minor exterior styling changes, sportier handling, upgraded touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2021: Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, wireless smartphone charging also offered.
How Does the Lexus RX Compare to the Competition?
The 2017 Lexus RX is one of the best luxury SUVs on the market since it combines practicality, an upscale interior, and long-lasting engines, making it a great choice for shoppers.
The Lexus GX is a larger SUV from Lexus which costs around $4,000 more. Off-road performance is better in the Lexus GX with its body-on-frame design, while entertainment technology is better in the Lexus RX. We recommend the Lexus RX for most shoppers, but both are fantastic SUVs that last longer than a lot of the competition.
The BMW X5 is another midsize luxury SUV which costs around $6,000 more. Performance is better in the BMW X5, while the Lexus RX offers more standard safety technology. We recommend the Lexus RX since it lasts longer and is more affordable to own.
Do Owners Recommend the Lexus RX?
Yes. It is easy to drive, has great technology features (for me), the classy style fits my personality, and is recognizable at sight which is what I like.
Yes, it looks really good on the outside and inside. It is quiet and rides very smooth. I like all of the features from the sun roof/moon roof, heated/cooling seats, power control hatchback, power folding seats in back.
Yes it is a good vehicle. It has a smooth and reliable ride. Nice trim and features and looks great!
Absolutely! It has good safety features and provides a luxury ride. It accommodates not only my needs but my family's as well.
