The Lexus RX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that has more than sleek designs and advanced technology. The RX is best known as an incredibly quiet, roomy, and silky ride. This attribute has earned Lexus the reputation of being one of the most reliable SUVs, delivering a graceful driving experience. The RX is quiet enough for long distances, with low wind and road noise, thanks to its separation from external sounds. It operates almost silently on battery power, and the difference between electric and fuel power is insignificant. Even when the engine starts up, it remains quiet, making it an ideal choice for long-distance travel.
Design and comfort
The Lexus RX boasts a “spindle body” design with a body-colored grille integrated into the front fascia, sleek LED headlights, and a unique LED blade taillamp. Its athleticism is highlighted with a longer wheelbase, lowered roofline, and raked tailgate.
The car’s luxurious cabin has a driver-centric “Tazuna” cockpit design, and standard features include a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 12-speaker audio system, and a 7-inch digital gauge cluster. Premium trims come with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson system, head-up display, and leather/suede accents. The cargo space is a little less than some competitors.
Engine, performance, and fuel economy
For all Lexus RX models, the front wheels are powered by an electric motor and a gasoline engine, while the rear wheels are driven by a second electric motor, providing four-wheel drive.
The RX 350 is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, as well as an 8-speed automated transmission. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds and has an EPA fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg highway.
The RX 350h self-charging hybrid has a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine and two electric motors, producing 246 horsepower and 34 mpg combined. The RX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4, electric motors, and a high-capacity battery, delivering 304 horsepower and 37 miles of electric range.
The RX 500h F Sport Performance is the sportiest variation, with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 and a hybrid powertrain producing 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.
Safety
The RX provides a comprehensive suite of safety features within Lexus Safety System+, including the Pre-Collision System with intersection collision avoidance support, emergency steering assist and low-speed acceleration suppression.
The Driver Monitor helps to assess the driver’s state of attention when on the road. Additional features included across the range include Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Parking Support Brake, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and more.
