The RX has broken ground for Lexus ever since it first hit the scene, and now the new fifth-generation model is introducing a new variation on the brand’s “spindle” grille design. With a body-colored upper area, the 2023 RX’s face is an interesting evolution of the polarizing Lexus look that’s found across the lineup. No matter what you think of the new design, the new RX is poised to increase its coverage of the luxury-SUV spectrum with new powertrains including a plug-in-hybrid model and a 367-hp RX500h F Sport Performance hybrid variant that features a new all-wheel-drive setup Lexus calls Direct4. Show
Rumors suggest that Lexus will introduce a new three-row crossover called the TX in the near future, so we don’t think that the previous RX’s “L” model will return this time around. This will allow the RX to occupy the two-row-crossover space somewhere between compact and mid-size that has proven so successful for this model over its history. With a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase, the new RX promises more rear-seat room but has the same overall length, meaning its overhangs are shorter and its proportions look a bit more athletic. Toyota’s GA-K architecture, shared with many models including the Highlander, RAV4 and smaller Lexus NX, is underneath the latest RX. Lexus claims that the new model is up to 198 pounds lighter than before and also that the redesigned multi-link rear suspension improves the RX's ride-and-handling. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine used in the previous RX350 and RX450h is gone and has been replaced by a variety of four-cylinder drivetrains that include a base gas engine and three separate hybrid variants. The RX350 has a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque; like in the NX350, this engine is available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. The RX350h uses a familiar Toyota hybrid setup with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four and electric motors that combine to produce 246 hp; it comes standard with all-wheel drive and will achieve an estimated 33 mpg combined, 3 mpg better than the old RX450h’s V-6 hybrid setup. Things start to get interesting with the new RX500h F Sport Performance model. Meant to be considered in the same performance tier as the V-8–powered IS500, this version of the RX has a new hybrid system with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine and a six-speed automatic transmission rather than the planetary gearset typical of Toyota hybrid powertrains. It makes a total of 367 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and Lexus says that the all-wheel-drive system, which it calls Direct4, incorporates a more powerful electric motor on the rear axle that’s meant to improve handling performance. There will also be an RX450h+ model with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Lexus isn’t providing specifics, but we’d guess it’ll have a similar setup as the 302-hp NX450h+ and Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEVs. The plug-in NX provides an EPA-estimated electric driving range of 37 miles, so the RX PHEV should fall somewhere close to that. Trim levels for the lower models will include base, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F Sport Handling, while the RX500h F Sport Performance will sit at the top of the range. 19-inch wheels are standard across the board, with 21-inch wheels optional. The redesigned interior looks similar to the NX’s and is available with an optional 14.0-inch touchscreen that runs Lexus’ latest infotainment system. Interior color options include six different hues, including red and brown, while bamboo, open-pore wood, and aluminum trims will be available. We think the 2023 RX’s base price will rise somewhat compared with the outgoing RX350’s $46,995 starting cost. The RX350h hybrid is likely to start somewhere around $50,000, while the RX450h+ is likely to approach $60,000. There’s no precedent for the RX500h F Sport Performance model, so we wouldn’t be surprised to see that model reach into the $70,000 range. Lexus says the new RX will go on sale at the end of this year. This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.
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OverviewDespite a complete overhaul for 2023, Lexus’s RX SUV retains its soft-riding road manners that seem tailor-made for its faithful buyers. A quartet of powertrains is on the menu including a new plug-in hybrid version. The RX’s new styling looks much sharper than the outgoing model’s and up front, there’s a new version of the brand’s wide-mouthed grille and Lexus’s recognizable L-shaped running lights. Interior accommodations are more deluxe this time around, and the cabin features a large infotainment touchscreen and the latest tech features. The outgoing model was offered in either two- or three-row configurations but the 2023 RX is strictly a two-row affair. A three-row variant may join the lineup later or Lexus may choose to launch a new, larger SUV above the RX with a standard seven-seat layout. Where This Vehicle RanksWhat's New for 2023?The RX rolls into its fifth generation with an all-new design and it's on track to hit U.S. showrooms by the end of 2022. Pricing and Which One to BuyRX350 $49,000 (est) RX350 F Sport $51,000 (est) RX350h $53,000 (est) RX350h F Sport $54,000 (est) RX450h+ $57,000 (est) RX500h F Sport Performance $60,000 (est) Until Lexus releases more information on pricing and features, we’ll hold off making a recommendation. But the RX will be offered with a broad range of powertrains as well as in regular and F Sport trims. The sportiest model will be the RX500h F Sport Performance trim, which gets a 367-hp hybrid powertrain with standard all-wheel drive. Engine, Transmission, and PerformanceThe 2023 RX is offered with no less than four different powertrains, starting with the base RX350 model which is powered by a 275-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. That model comes with an eight-speed automatic and front-wheel drive as standard, but all-wheel drive is an option. The hybrid RX350h pairs electric motors with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine to make 246 horsepower and comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. On our first test drive, neither of these powertrains delivered notable performance and we estimate both will deliver slightly slower acceleration than their 2022 analogues. Stepping up to the RX500h F Sport Performance unlocks a punchier powertrain. It combines the turbocharged 2.4-liter and electric power to make 367 horsepower and utilizes Lexus’s Direct4 system to route that power to all four wheels. Lexus had an opportunity to recast the new RX as a performer with the RX500h model, but its chassis engineers regrettably chose not to dial in any additional cornering confidence. All models we've driven so far are just as softly-sprung and luxury-focused as the outgoing generation RX, which will please faithful buyers but won't attract any driving enthusiasts. A plug-in hybrid model—dubbed RX450h+—will join the lineup later, and although Lexus hasn’t released specs on that yet, we expect to see the same 302-hp powertrain that’s offered in the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Lexus NX450h+SUVs. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGThe EPA hasn't weighed in yet, but according to Lexus, the most efficient RX model will be the RX350h which carries claimed ratings of 37 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The RX500h is said to be good for 28 mpg city and 27 mpg highway while the nonhybrid RX350 could be rated as high as 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we'll test the new RX on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route to determine its real-world fuel economy. For more information about the RX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and CargoAlthough the outgoing model was offered in both two- and three-row configurations, the 2023 RX is offered exclusively as a two-row, five-seat SUV. A three-row model may debut later or the RX L could be replaced by an entirely different and larger SUV with a standard third row of seats. The 2023 RX’s interior design is more modern than the 2022 model, with textured fabric sections on the upper door panels, rich-looking ambient lighting, and open-pore wood trim on RX350 models. The RX500h F Sport Performance features more heavily bolstered front seats, black interior trim, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and aluminum pedals. Infotainment and ConnectivityA 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen is parked smack in the middle of the RX’s redesigned dashboard; a larger 14.0-inch screen is optional. Like the smaller NX SUV, the RX's infotainment display is angled slightly toward the driver and uses Lexus’s latest software interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard but features such as navigation, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson stereo system are optional. Safety and Driver-Assistance FeaturesLexus offers many standard driver-assistance features on its new cars and SUVs, and the 2023 RX is no different. The RX’s automated emergency braking system can detect pedestrians as well as motorcyclists and all models also come with adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. For more information about the RX’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Warranty and Maintenance CoverageLexus’s limited warranty matches most of its rivals in this segment and its powertrain warranty surpasses many. Hybrid components get longer coverage; however, complimentary scheduled maintenance lasts only one year, whereas the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60 both offer lengthier terms.
SpecificationsSpecifications 2023 Lexus RX PRICE POWERTRAINS TRANSMISSIONS DIMENSIONS PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Will Lexus change the RX in 2023?Lexus has introduced a fully redesigned RX for the 2023 model year. The midsize SUV enters its fifth generation with a new design, new engines, a performance-oriented model with a new hybrid powertrain, and a new plug-in hybrid RX450h+ model.
When did Lexus RX get bigger?The RX has been assembled at Toyota Motor Kyushu since launch. The RX and RX Hybrid were the first Lexus models to be built outside Japan, with North American market versions produced at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada plant in Cambridge, Ontario beginning 2003 (RX) and expanded in 2014 (RX Hybrid).
What are the dimensions of the 2023 Lexus RX?2023 Lexus RX dimensions compared. |
