2023 Lexus RX series | updated

 Despite receiving a major makeover for 2023, Lexus's RX SUV maintains its supple ride quality that seems custom-made for its devoted customers. There are four different powertrain options available, one of which is a new plug-in hybrid model. The new style of the RX is significantly more angular than that of the outgoing model, and it has a fresh iteration of the wide-mouthed grille and L-shaped running lights that are signature to the brand. 


This time around, the interior accommodations are more opulent, and the cabin includes the newest technological advancements and a sizable infotainment touchscreen. The 2023 Lexus RXis only available in two-row variants as opposed to the previous model's two- or three-row options. Later on, a three-row model might be added to the inventory, or Lexus might decide to introduce a new, larger SUV above the RX with a typical seven-seat configuration.


Overview

Cost and Which One to Purchase :

RX350 $49,000

Sport RX350  $51,000

RX350h  $53,000

Sport RX350h  $54,000

RX450h+  $57,000

Sport Performance RX500h F $60,00



However, a variety of powertrain options as well as standard and F Sport trim levels will be available for the RX. The RX500h F Sport Performance variant, which comes with a 367-hp hybrid powertrain and standard all-wheel drive, will be the sportiest vehicle.



Engine and performances


The base RX350 model, which is powered by a 275-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, is the first of the 2023 RX's four available powertrains. All-wheel drive is an option for that vehicle, which comes standard with a front-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid RX350h has all-wheel drive, a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 246 horsepower when combined.



Upgrade to the RX500h F Sport Performance to access a more powerful powerplant. The Lexus Direct4 system is used to distribute the 367 horsepower produced by the turbocharged 2.4-liter and electric motor to all four wheels. With the RX500h model, Lexus had the chance to reinvent the new RX as a performance, but the company's chassis engineers sadly decided against adding any more cornering confidence. All of the vehicles we've tested so far are equally gently sprung and luxury-focused as the RX from the previous generation, which will satisfy devoted customers but not draw in any driving aficionados. Although Lexus hasn't yet disclosed details on the RX450h+ plug-in hybrid model, we anticipate it to use the same 302-hp powertrain as the Lexus NX450h+ and Toyota RAV4 Prime SUVs. 



Fuel consumption


Although the EPA hasn't yet commented, Lexus claims that the RX350h, which has stated ratings of 37 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, will be the most efficient RX model. The non-hybrid RX350 may be rated as high as 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, whilst the RX500h is believed to be suitable for 28 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. When we have the opportunity, we'll test the new RX on our 75 mph highway fuel economy route to see how much fuel it uses in actual driving situations. Visit the EPA website for additional information about the RX's fuel efficiency.



Interior, comfort and cargo


The 2023 RX is only available as a two-row, five-seat SUV, unlike the previous model, which came in both two- and three-row options. The RX L could be replaced by a completely other, larger SUV with a regular third row of seats, or a three-row vehicle could make its debut later. The inside of the 2023 RX is more contemporary than the 2022 model, with open-pore wood trim on RX350 versions, textured fabric parts on the upper door panels, and rich-looking ambient lighting. Front seats on the RX500h F Sport Performance are more heavily bolstered, the interior trim is black, paddle shifters are positioned on the steering wheel, and aluminum pedals are included.



Conectivity


The center of the RX's revised dashboard houses a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen; a bigger 14.0-inch screen is an option. The RX's infotainment display is slightly slanted toward the driver and employs the most recent software interface from Lexus, just like the smaller NX SUV. While navigation, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson sound system are optional, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.



Safety and driver assistance


The 2023 RX continues Lexus' tradition of offering numerous standard driver-assistance systems on its new cars and SUVs. Both pedestrians and motorcycles can be detected by the RX's automated emergency braking system, and all models include adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. Visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for more details regarding the RX's crash test results. Important safety elements include:


Automated emergency braking norms with bicycle and pedestrian detection 

Lane-keeping assistance and the standard lane-departure warning 

Adaptive cruise control that is standard and has lane centering functionality



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