First Look: 2023 Lexus RX | The Daily Drive | Consumer Guide® The Daily Drive

2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Efficiency

Tonight, Lexus took the wraps off its all-new 2023 RX crossover SUV. Lengthy the Lexus model’s best-selling mannequin, the RX kicks off its fifth technology with a reasonably formidable, from-the-ground-up redesign. It’s constructed on the brand new GA-Okay international platform and introduces an evolution of Lexus’s “spindle-grille” design language that leads to a burlier front-end look. 4 new 4-cylinder powertrains might be supplied, three of that are gas-electric hybrids (together with a forthcoming plug-in-hybrid mannequin). New options embrace the Lexus Interface Multimedia System, an expanded Lexus Security System+ 3.0 suite of security options, obtainable Digital Key smartphone-app entry and beginning, and two further trim ranges.

Client Information classifies the Lexus RX as a premium midsize SUV; it competes in opposition to rivals such because the BMW X5 and Cadillac XT5. The 2023 RX continues as a 5-passenger two-row mannequin. The previous-generation RX supplied extended-length RX L fashions that supplied a bit extra cargo quantity and a really cramped third-row seat, however the RX L will very probably get replaced by a brand new three-row crossover (reportedly named TX) that can in all probability be launched late subsequent 12 months.

2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Efficiency

Lexus says the brand new RX’s platform is extra inflexible than the previous mannequin’s structure and permits for a weight discount of practically 200 kilos. The wheelbase has been elevated by 2.4 inches to assist improve rear legroom, however the rear overhang has been lowered by the identical quantity, so the general size stays 192.5 inches. Trim ranges ascend by way of Normal, Premium, Premium+ (new), Luxurious, F SPORT, and the brand new line-topping F SPORT Efficiency fashions.

The previous-gen RX’s V6 powertrains have been changed by 4-cylinder engines. RX 350 fashions are powered by a turbocharged 275-hp 2.4-liter 4 that’s paired with an 8-speed computerized transmission and supplied with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The RX 350h hybrid comes customary with AWD; it will get a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4 and a repeatedly variable transmission (CVT), together with an electrical hybrid system for a mixed output of 246 horsepower. Particulars aren’t but obtainable, however a brand new plug-in-hybrid RX 450h+ mannequin is deliberate as effectively.

Check Drive Gallery: 2022 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Status

2023 Lexus RX 350 Premium

The brand new RX 500h F SPORT Efficiency is geared toward providing a extra highly effective and invigorating RX expertise. Right here, the two.4-liter turbo mates with a 6-speed computerized transmission and a brand new Lexus hybrid system for a mixed 367 horsepower. A “DIRECT4” AWD system is mated to an “eAxle” rear unit that makes use of a second electrical motor and a discount gearbox to energy the rear wheels. Lexus lists a 5.9-second 0-60 mph time for the RX 500h F SPORT Efficiency, which is 1.5 seconds faster than the RX 350h and 1.3 seconds faster than an AWD RX 350.

The RX 500h F SPORT Efficiency additionally receives 6-piston brake calipers and 21-inch wheels, together with a model-specific mesh grille and entrance bumper. The leather-trimmed inside consists of suede door trim, paddle shifters, aluminum pedals, and F SPORT scuff plates.

The 2023 Lexus RX is slated to go on sale on the finish of 2022. Pricing and different data might be obtainable nearer to the on-sale date, however we’d guess the RX 350’s beginning worth will improve no less than barely from the 2022 RX 350’s base MSRP of $46,995. The RX 500h F SPORT Efficiency will nearly actually be priced above $60,000 to start out.

Fast Spin: 2022 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxurious

2023 Lexus RX 350 Premium

CG Says:

The Lexus RX has lengthy been identified for distinctive refinement and a really quiet inside, and we count on these qualities to characteristic prominently within the new 2023 RX as effectively. Driving thrills sometimes haven’t been a key a part of the RX formulation, however the RX 500h F Sport Efficiency ought to inject some pleasure into the mannequin lineup. The forthcoming plug-in-hybrid powertrain is an apparent addition, however the line-wide swap to 4-cylinder energy ought to ship noteworthy fuel-economy beneficial properties throughout the board as effectively. We suspect the brand new RX will stay a Lexus finest vendor.

Try the Client Information Automobile Stuff Podcast