- The new 2023 Lexus RX is here with several new powertrains.
- The RX350 features a turbocharged four-gas engine, while the RX350h, RX450h+ and RX500h F Sport Performance models all feature different hybrid setups.
- The new RX will go on sale in the US later this year.
The RX has broken new ground for Lexus since it first launched, and now the new fifth-generation model introduces a new twist on the brand’s ‘spindle’ grille design. With a body-colored upper section, the face of the 2023 RX is an interesting evolution of the polarizing Lexus look found across the range. No matter what you think of the new design, the new RX is poised to expand its coverage of the luxury SUV spectrum with new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid model and a 367hp RX500h F Sport Performance hybrid variant with a new all-wheel drive setup Lexus calls Direct4.
Rumors suggest that Lexus will introduce a new three-row crossover called the TX in the near future, so we don’t think the “L” model of the previous RX will return this time. This will allow the RX to occupy the dual-row crossover space somewhere between compact and mid-size that has proven so successful for this model throughout its history. With a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase, the new RX promises more rear-seat space 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 like the Highlander, RAV4 and smaller Lexus NX, sits underneath the latest RX. It introduces a multi-link rear suspension to replace the previous model’s unequal-length wishbone setup. Lexus also claims that the new model is up to 198 pounds lighter than before.
The 3.5-litre V6 engine used in the previous RX350 and RX450h is gone, replaced with a variety of four-cylinder powertrains that include a base gas engine and three separate hybrid variants. The RX350 has a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four that makes 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque; As 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 produce a combined 246 hp. it comes standard with all-wheel drive and will achieve an estimated 33mpg combined, 3mpg better than the old RX450h’s V-6 hybrid setup.
Things get interesting with the new RX500h F Sport Performance model. Intended to be considered in the same performance tier as the V-8-powered IS500, this version of the RX features a new hybrid system with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four petrol engine and a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the planetary gearbox typical of Toyota hybrids. powertrain. It makes a total of 367 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and Lexus says the all-wheel-drive system, which it calls Direct4, includes a more powerful electric motor on the rear axle that’s supposed to improve driving performance.
There will also be an RX450h+ model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Lexus isn’t providing specifics, but we suspect it will have a similar setup to the 302-hp NX450h+ and Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEVs. The plug-in NX offers an EPA-estimated electric range of 37 miles, so the RX PHEV should be somewhere close to that.
Trim levels for the lower models include Base, Premium, Premium+, Luxury and F Sport Handling, while the RX500h F Sport Performance will be at the top of the range. 19-inch wheels are standard throughout, 21-inch wheels are optional. The redesigned interior is similar to that of the NX and comes with an optional 14.0-inch touchscreen running Lexus’ latest infotainment system. Interior color options include six different hues, including red and brown, while bamboo, open-pore wood and aluminum trim will be available.
We think the base price of the RX 2023 will increase a bit compared to the outgoing RX350’s starting cost of $46,995. The RX350h hybrid will likely start at around $50,000, while the RX450h+ will likely hit $60,000. There’s no precedent for the RX500h F Sport Performance model, so we wouldn’t be surprised if this model hit the $70,000 mark. Lexus says the new RX will go on sale later this year.
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