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    Lexus RX
    Luxury Crossover SUV

    Lexus RX

    Japan flagJapan

    by Lexus

    "The original luxury crossover, refined for five generations."

    90%

    Rating

    4.5/5

    Starting at $49,950 (2024 RX 350 base MSRP)Available
    Community

    Overview

    When the Lexus RX debuted in March 1998, it didn't just add another model to the lineup; it created a new category. By marrying a car-like unibody platform with SUV proportions and a premium interior, the RX gave buyers a vehicle that rode smoothly, handled predictably, and still offered the elevated seating and cargo flexibility they wanted from a utility vehicle. Competitors scrambled to follow, but the RX had already established the formula.

    Five generations later, the RX remains Lexus's best-selling model globally, moving more than 800,000 units in 2023 alone. The current fifth-generation car, launched for the 2023 model year, continues to prioritize a quiet, compliant ride and meticulous build quality. It offers a choice of four powertrains: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 2.5-liter hybrid, a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid, and a turbocharged hybrid setup in the F Sport Performance trim. Each variant aims for the same serene driving experience that has defined the nameplate since the beginning.

    Standard equipment includes a 9.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-speaker audio system, and the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite of driver assists. Available upgrades include a 14-inch display, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and a 10-inch head-up display. The RX seats five passengers comfortably and provides 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. Production takes place at Toyota's Tahara plant in Japan and its Cambridge, Ontario, facility.

    Key Features

    • Clean front-end design with 'spindle body'
    • Full LED headlamps, fog lamps, and taillamps
    • Spacious cabin for five passengers
    • Ample legroom and generous cargo space
    • Standard 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
    • Wireless smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
    • Wi-Fi hotspot
    • Standard 12-speaker sound system
    • Power front seats
    • Sunroof
    • Available 14-inch touchscreen
    • Available leather upholstery
    • Available ambient interior lighting
    • Available heated and ventilated front seats
    • Available heated wood-and-leather-trimmed steering wheel
    • Available 10-inch head-up display
    • Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite (standard)
    • Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
    • Active lane control
    • Blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert
    • Automatic high beams
    • Adaptive cruise control with curve speed management
    • Lane departure alert with steering assist
    • Lane tracing assist
    • Road sign assist
    • Intuitive parking assist with auto braking
    • 10 airbags

    Specifications

    RX 350 Engine2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four
    RX 350 Horsepower275 hp
    RX 350 Torque317 lb-ft
    RX 350 Transmission8-speed automatic
    RX 350 DrivetrainFWD or AWD
    RX 350 Combined Fuel Economy24-25 mpg
    RX 350h (Hybrid) Total System Output246 hp, 233 lb-ft torque
    RX 350h (Hybrid) TransmissionContinuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
    RX 350h (Hybrid) DrivetrainStandard AWD (E-Four system)
    RX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid) Total System Output304 hp
    RX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid) All-Electric Range37-38 miles (EPA estimated)
    RX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid) Combined MPGe83-85 MPGe (estimated)
    RX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid) DrivetrainElectronically controlled, full-time AWD
    RX 500h F Sport Performance Total System Output366 hp, 406 lb-ft torque
    RX 500h F Sport Performance Transmission6-speed automatic
    RX 500h F Sport Performance DrivetrainDIRECT4 all-wheel drive
    Length192.5 inches
    Wheelbase112.2 inches

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • • Plush, quiet ride quality
    • • High-quality interior materials and assembly
    • • Strong reliability record and resale value
    • • Comprehensive standard safety suite
    • • Multiple electrified powertrain options

    Cons

    • • Dull handling compared to sportier rivals
    • • Infotainment system has a learning curve
    • • No third-row seating option
    • • Mediocre fuel economy for base engine
    • • Limited towing capacity (3,500 lbs max)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does a Lexus RX cost?
    The 2024 Lexus RX 350 starts at $49,950 MSRP for the base front-wheel-drive model. Higher trims like the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid and RX 500h F Sport Performance exceed $60,000.
    Is the Lexus RX worth it?
    Yes, for buyers prioritizing reliability, comfort, resale value, and a quiet cabin. It may not satisfy those seeking sporty handling or a third row, but it consistently ranks among the most dependable luxury SUVs.
    What is the Lexus RX vs BMW X5?
    The RX offers superior reliability and a smoother ride at a lower price, while the X5 provides more power, sharper handling, and an available third row. The RX excels in comfort and value; the X5 in performance and prestige.
    When did the Lexus RX come out?
    The first-generation Lexus RX launched in March 1998 for the 1999 model year, initially as the RX 300. It was one of the first luxury crossover SUVs, creating the segment.
    What are the Lexus RX specs?
    The 2026 RX 350 has a 2.4L turbo four-cylinder (275 hp, 317 lb-ft), 8-speed automatic, 24 mpg combined, and 192.5 inches length. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer 246-366 hp with AWD.

    Keywords

    Lexus RXluxury SUVcrossover SUVhybrid SUVplug-in hybridToyota luxurymid-size SUVpremium vehicleautomotiveJapan carCanada manufacturing

    Sources

    Product Info

    Brand
    Lexus
    Category
    Luxury Crossover SUV
    Released
    March 1998
    Price
    Starting at $49,950 (2024 RX 350 base MSRP)
    Availability
    Available
    Manufacturer
    Lexus
    Target Audience
    Affluent consumers (35-64 age group), established professionals, retirees, modern families
    Global Sales (2023)
    824,258 units
    Electrified Vehicle Sales Share (2023)
    47%
    North American Sales (2023)
    355,606 units
    First Generation (XU10)
    1998-2003
    Second Generation (XU30)
    2003-2008
    Third Generation (AL10)
    2008-2015
    Fourth Generation (AL20)
    2015-2022
    Fifth Generation (ALA10/ALH10)
    2022-Present

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