Updated Lexus RX is a plush tourer for those not in a hurry
All-new for 2023,
Lexus RX aficionados will find this newest model delightfully better but not threateningly new. Utilizing the Toyota corporate GA-K platform will underpin a number of Lexus and Toyota vehicles. Its lower roof and longer wheelbase lend it a sportier vibe, although overall, its updated appearance doesn’t stray far from the familiar. Overall size remains the same, although the three-row RX-L has been dropped — for now at least. So two rows are all you get.
You’ll also get two fewer cylinders as the 3.5-liter V-6 is relegated to history. For now, the sole conventional driveline is the base RX 350’s 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. Output is rated at
275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available.
Other drivelines are hybrids, but while they’re a mixed bag. The RX 350h combines Lexus’ dualmotor hybrid system with a 2.5-liter Atkinson-Cycle four-cylinder engine, continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive. It generates 246 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque.
But whereas the RX 350 returns 25 mpg in combined city/highway driving with front-wheel drive and 24 mpg with all-wheel drive, the RX 350h delivers 36 mpg.
The same hybrid setup with addition of a turbocharged 2.5-liter four generates 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, but fuel economy suffers, at 27 mpg. All RX models require premium gasoline.
This is still very much the soft luxury-oriented tourer it’s always been, with body leans in corners, and a commendably quiet ride in the RX 350. Power is adequate.
The same is true of the 350h hybrid, but at least it returns commendable fuel economy in exchange for its sluggish ways.
Needless to say, the RX 500h proved to be the fastest, thanks to its extra power and six-speed automatic transmission. Also, it was the most adept handler of the bunch, yet still exhibited body roll while cornering.
But of all the changes wrought on the new RX, it’s the interior that makes for a significantly better experience. Gone are the touchpad and joystick, replaced by a large 14-inch touchscreen.
It incorporates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is augmented by numerous USB ports, a thoughtfully placed Qi wireless charging pad, head-up display and an impressivesounding 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
When the audio system isn’t on, you’ll find the cabin to be a place of solitude, with comfortable seating and beautiful, well-assembled pieces. Its look is a bit simpler, as so many controls are now on the screen.
While it’s hard to imagine legions of new devotees flocking to the RX, it does have its virtues. Its updated appearance keeps it fresh, and an updated technology package is hard to resist. It’s for those who aren’t in the biggest hurry, but crave the coddling and quiet that Lexus is so adept at.