GEARBOX
QX60: CVT
MDX: 6 Speed Automatic
RX 350: 6 Speed Automatic, optional 8 Speed
I've never been a big fan of CVTs and QX60 is no exception, its the one glaring option that could derail my decision. Lexus' optional 8 speed should make better mpg figures.
DRIVE
QX60: FWD, optional AWD, Limited slip differential
MDX: FWD, optional SH-AWD
RX 350: FWD, optional AWD
QX60 is the only one standard with a Limited Slip Diff, this gets transferred over from the Pathfinder. Other two need optional towing package to equip limited slip.
TOWING
QX60: FWD-3,500 lbs/AWD-5,000 lbs
MDX: 3,500 lbs (optional tow package 5,000lbs)
RX 350: 1,500 lbs (optional tow package 3,500 lbs)
QX60 is the king of towing, AWD can tow 5,000 lbs without the need for a tow package like the other two, Limited Slip Diff makes incline towing that much more comfortable. LSD is also useful in slippery or snowy road conditions.
FUEL ECONOMY
QX60:20 City/26 Highway
MDX: 20 City/28 Highway
RX 350: 18 City/25 Highway
QX60 holds its own in MPG comparison, desite its obvious heft over its two competitors. Limited slip diff and lower ratio towing gears account for the 2 mpg Highway difference between MDX and QX60. RX350 is plain disappointing as the optional 8 speed only bumps highway MPG to 26.
QX60: CVT
MDX: 6 Speed Automatic
RX 350: 6 Speed Automatic, optional 8 Speed
I've never been a big fan of CVTs and QX60 is no exception, its the one glaring option that could derail my decision. Lexus' optional 8 speed should make better mpg figures.
DRIVE
QX60: FWD, optional AWD, Limited slip differential
MDX: FWD, optional SH-AWD
RX 350: FWD, optional AWD
QX60 is the only one standard with a Limited Slip Diff, this gets transferred over from the Pathfinder. Other two need optional towing package to equip limited slip.
TOWING
QX60: FWD-3,500 lbs/AWD-5,000 lbs
MDX: 3,500 lbs (optional tow package 5,000lbs)
RX 350: 1,500 lbs (optional tow package 3,500 lbs)
QX60 is the king of towing, AWD can tow 5,000 lbs without the need for a tow package like the other two, Limited Slip Diff makes incline towing that much more comfortable. LSD is also useful in slippery or snowy road conditions.
FUEL ECONOMY
QX60:20 City/26 Highway
MDX: 20 City/28 Highway
RX 350: 18 City/25 Highway
QX60 holds its own in MPG comparison, desite its obvious heft over its two competitors. Limited slip diff and lower ratio towing gears account for the 2 mpg Highway difference between MDX and QX60. RX350 is plain disappointing as the optional 8 speed only bumps highway MPG to 26.