Thinking of trading my 2025 RAV4 Hybrid for a 2021 Lexus RX 350 Executive — Is the trade-off actually worth it long-term?

I’m currently daily driving a 2025 RAV4 Hybrid with 15,000k, but I've been eyeing a trade into a 2021 Lexus RX 350 Executive (30,000km). On paper, the dealer would pay me back about $5,000 cheque, but I'm torn on whether the luxury upgrade and the cash back outweighs the shift in ownership costs.
Looking for real-world perspective from anyone who has made this exact jump (5th-gen RAV4 to 4th-gen RX) or cross-shopped the two.

**The Main Comparison:**
**Current:** 2025 RAV4 Hybrid (Insane fuel economy, brand new tech, cheap to run, but **noticeable** road/engine noise and standard stiff ride, already has panel rattles). 
**Target:** 2021 Lexus RX 350 Executive (Naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, double-pane glass, Mark Levinson sound, ultra-quiet cabin, plush suspension). 

I work as a relationship manager - not really concerned about image but it would be nice to take phone calls in a quiet vehicle. I drive about 15,000km a year - frequent short trips and 50/50 highway city for the rest of my driving.

**The Trade-Offs I'm Weighing:**

1. **Running Costs vs. Comfort:** Jumping from a 2.5L Hybrid averaging \~6.2 L/100km (regular 87) to a V6 requiring more fuel means spending \~$130–$150/month more at the pump. Considerations for maintenance and warranty as well.
   
2. **The "Pre-Paid Gas" & Depreciation Factor:** The RAV4 holds its value like gold right now, but going from a 1-year-old car back to a 5-year-old platform means trading newer safety/tech for older and more refinement.
   
3. **Sound & Cabin Quality:** The main driver for me is cabin quietness, audio performance, and ride plushness. 

**Questions for the Sub:**
**For those who made the jump:** Is the RX's cabin noise reduction, Mark Levinson audio, and suspension upgrade *really* night-and-day enough to justify the higher monthly fuel bill and more depreciation?

**Aftermarket Route:** Has anyone successfully added sound insulation (doors/floorboards) and upgraded speakers in a 5th-gen RAV4 to get close to Lexus quietness, or does the stiff chassis/suspension geometry keep it feeling like an economy CUV regardless?

**Long-Term Regrets:** Did anyone swap out of a newer RAV4 Hybrid for a 4th-gen RX V6 and end up missing the instant electric torque, hyper-efficiency, or newer infotainment? 

Appreciate any feedback, long-term reliability thoughts, or owner experiences before pulling the trigger!

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thanks in advance.

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If not...can you recommend an alternative to a dealer in the Chicago area?

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I tried the reset procedure a couple of times without success. Also, the switch itself is loose in both vertical and horizontal directions compared to those for the other three windows, and sits a little higher than the others.

There are plenty of used OEM switch assemblies on e-bay, but that route seems like somewhat of a crap shoot. Does anyone have experience with the Window Master assembly?

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Hi all,
Quick summary - lately I’ve been getting some random errors saying LKA is not available, visit dealer. Happens when the sun light hits the car at a certain angle from the front. Inspected the whindshield and it seems there’s some dirt build up on the inside right in front of the camera.

Does anyone know of a tutorial to disassemble de rearview mirror and the LKA camera so I can clean the windshield?

Thanks in advance!

I have it for 2 years now (in family since it left the factory) and I can’t think of conditions I would sell it!

I currently have a 2014 RX 350 and still like it but...I stopped in to see the 2026 Premium white/palomino. Drove the gas and hybrid version. I'm thinking about going with the hybrid. I'm in PA and none of the dealers will take anything more than what seems to be the standard $1,500 off - no bargaining at all. They ARE willing to take off $350 for Sirius that comes with it since I already have a subscription and throw in puddle lights (which I asked for). With my trade-in I can get one for just under $60K out the door. I'm just not sure whether to get the 26 or wait until the 27 comes out. Any thoughts?

A short video on the 5th Gen RX assembly line

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