Lexus announced that the RX midsize luxury crossover has evolved into its fifth-generation form. It now sits on the lighter Toyota’s GA-K platform, joining other Lexus models such as the ES and NX.
All-new Lexus RX
Lexus says it overcame two challenges when developing the all-new model. The “Lexus Driving Signature” improved the vehicle’s fundamentals to address the challenge of creating a fun-to-drive car. Meanwhile, the other challenge was to transform the design, which the brand bested by introducing the “spindle body.”
Exterior
The 2023 Lexus RX’s “spindle body” is a variation of the brand’s signature spindle grille design. It creates a new identity for the model that is said to convey ‘the new driving experience.’ Aside from a striking appearance, the new grille is designed in a way to provide ample cooling, enhancing the reliability of the powertrain.
A familiar yet evolved look
Turning to the side profile, the model comes standard with a set of 19-inch wheels, with an option to use 21-inch alloys. The length is retained at 4,890 mm but the wheelbase has been extended by 60 mm, providing a sportier finish due to shorter overhangs. Moreover, the vehicle is 25 mm wider and 10 mm shorter in height.
Interior
Based on the human-centered Tazuna concept, the interior is designed to make drivers feel like they are one with the vehicle. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, the cabin should provide more space for the comfort of passengers. An open expansive space is also integrated, enhancing the luxurious ambiance inside.
The RX utilizes a human-centric approach
Six interior colors are made available for the new version, namely Macadamia, Black, Birch, Palomino, Peppercorn, and Rioja Red. The design cabin is also offered in four styles including Black Cascade, Ash Bamboo, Black Open Pore, and Dark Graphite Aluminum.
Tech & Safety
The head unit has been repositioned next to the instrument cluster as opposed to the outgoing model that had it on top of the dashboard. The new RX can be equipped with a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the latest Lexus infotainment system.
One refined cabin layout
Safety-wise, the Lexus RX gets the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering safety bits such as All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with new Curve Speed Management (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA), and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection. It also gets a new feature called Motorcycle Detection.
Engine & Performance
As said earlier, the new GA-K platform is lighter than the previous model, reducing the weight by as much as 89.8 kg. This enhances the driving characteristics of the Japanese midsize crossover alongside the integration of an all-new multi-link suspension design on its rear section.
It retains the sophisticated DNA of Lexus
The 3.5-liter V6 engine found in the fourth-gen RX has been discontinued in favor of 4-cylinder power units. Here is the list of preliminary powertrain specifications of the 2023 Lexus RX:
| Powertrain | RX 350 | RX 350h | RX 500h F Sport Performance |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbo | 2.5-liter hybrid | 2.4-liter turbo hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed AT | CVT | 6-speed AT |
| Drivetrain | FWD/AWD | AWD | Direct4 AWD |
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 246 hp | 367 hp |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 316 Nm | 550 Nm |
| 0-60 | FWD 7.5s / AWD 7.2s | 7.4s | 5.9s |
Price
Lexus has not disclosed the official pricing for the 2023 RX as of this writing, but the Japanese marque said that the all-new model goes on sale at the end of 2022. More specs and pricing should be released before the start of the crossover’s market debut.
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