The Lexus RX has been a leader in luxury crossovers for 20 years. Now in its fifth generation, the 2023 Lexus RX brings new tech, power choices, and design. It’s a modern icon in the car world.
The 2023 Lexus RX comes in six grades: Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling, and F SPORT Performance. It’s built on the new Global Architecture-K (GA-K) platform. This platform is 198 pounds lighter and has a lower center of gravity, making it better to drive and more spacious inside.
Even though it’s longer and wider, the 2023 RX is just as compact as before. It measures 192.5 inches in length.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Lexus RX offers six distinct grades, catering to a wide range of luxury SUV buyers.
- The new GA-K platform is 198 pounds lighter and has a lower center of gravity, improving handling and interior space.
- The 2023 RX maintains its compact footprint while featuring a longer wheelbase and wider track for improved stability and comfort.
- Lexus RX is known for its innovative technologies, advanced safety features, and premium interior craftsmanship.
- The 2023 RX continues to redefine the luxury crossover segment with its diverse powertrain options, including hybrid and high-performance variants.
The Evolution of Lexus RX: From Pioneer to Modern Icon
The Lexus RX has led the luxury crossover market from 1998. It was the first to mix SUV space with luxury sedan drive. The RX 300 started a trend that changed the car world.
The Birth of the Luxury Crossover Segment
The Lexus RX 300 was a game-changer when it came out. It combined SUV and sedan features, quickly winning fans. By the end of its first year, it sold around 42,000 units in North America.
This design set a new standard for luxury crossovers. It showed that cars could be both practical and stylish.
Two Decades of Innovation
Over five generations, the Lexus RX has set new standards. It uses Japanese omotenashi, or anticipatory hospitality, to improve every drive. Each new RX adds to its legacy, making it a luxury car icon.
Setting New Industry Standards
The Lexus RX has greatly influenced the car world. It was the first in the luxury crossover market. The 2024 Lexus RX keeps this legacy alive with new looks, powertrains, and tech.
The Lexus RX’s journey shows the brand’s dedication to excellence. It has become a beloved and influential luxury crossover.
“The Lexus RX has been a game-changer in the luxury crossover segment, setting new standards of design, performance, and technology with each passing generation.”
Revolutionary GA-K Platform Design
The 2023 Lexus RX marks a big step for Lexus in design and engineering. It introduces the GA-K platform, showing Lexus’ dedication to a better driving experience. This is for those who want luxury in a modern SUV.
The GA-K platform is a major change, cutting 198 pounds from the previous model. This makes the car lighter and more agile. It also improves handling and fuel efficiency. The use of stronger metals makes the car more rigid, boosting its performance.
This platform also brings a new rear suspension design. It offers a smoother and more responsive ride. The 2023 Lexus RX now offers a more engaging and confident drive, leading the luxury crossover market.
The GA-K platform makes the Lexus RX lighter and more spacious. It has a roomier interior for passengers and cargo. This shows Lexus’ skill in engineering and their aim to change the luxury SUV experience.
“The new GA-K platform has allowed us to create a Lexus RX that is more agile, efficient, and spacious than ever before. This is a true leap forward in our pursuit of delivering an unparalleled driving experience in the luxury crossover segment.”
Exterior Styling and Aerodynamic Excellence
The 2024 Lexus RX has a stunning new look. It mixes bold elegance with top-notch aerodynamics. The heart of this change is the new “spindle body” design. It makes the luxury SUV look strong and clean on the road.
Spindle Body Design Evolution
The Lexus RX’s front has been updated with a sleek new shape. This shape fits the spindle body perfectly, boosting the SUV’s aerodynamics. It also has flush windows, a sculpted rear spoiler, and underbody covers. These features make the RX’s aerodynamics stand out.
Aerodynamic Enhancements
- Refined front fascia shape for improved airflow
- Flush window and door molding to reduce drag
- Sculpted rear spoiler for enhanced stability and efficiency
- Dimpled underbody covers to optimize airflow
Available Exterior Colors
The 2024 Lexus RX comes in many colors. This lets customers make their SUV their own. Colors include Ultra White, Eminent White Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Iridium, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Copper Crest, Nori Green Pearl, Nightfall Mica, and Grecian.
“The all-new Lexus RX takes the signature spindle grille to the next level, seamlessly integrating it into a bold, aerodynamic exterior design that enhances both style and performance.”
Premium Interior Craftsmanship
The 2024 Lexus RX interior shows Lexus’s dedication to top-notch craftsmanship. It’s inspired by the tazuna concept. This design puts controls and info right where the driver needs them, making driving smooth and focused.
Inside, you’ll find soft-touch surfaces, wood accents, and premium leather. These materials are carefully chosen for the Lexus RX interior. The seats are both supportive and comfy, and there’s lots of room for cargo.
The interior also features ambient lighting and a selection of premium materials. This creates a luxurious and elegant feel. The Lexus RX interior perfectly mixes style and practicality, showing Lexus’s commitment to luxury SUV lovers.
“The Lexus RX interior embodies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, combining innovative design with high-quality materials to deliver a truly premium experience.”
Advanced Powertrain Options
The 2024 Lexus RX luxury SUV lineup has many powertrain options. You can pick from the Lexus RX hybrid powertrains to the Lexus RX 500h F SPORT Performance. This way, you get the right mix of power, efficiency, and fun driving.
RX 350 Performance Specs
The Lexus RX 350 starts with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. It makes 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It’s powerful yet efficient, with a fuel rating of 9.9L/100km combined.
Hybrid Powertrain Variants
- The Lexus RX 350h hybrid uses a 2.5-liter engine and an electric motor. It has 246 horsepower and is very fuel-efficient, at 6.5L/100km combined.
- The new Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid will be even more efficient. It has an electric-only range of 60 km and a fuel rating of 2.8Le/100 km combined.
F SPORT Performance Features
The Lexus RX 500h F SPORT Performance is for those who love a thrill. It has a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and a hybrid system. Together, they make 367 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It also has the DIRECT4 AWD system for better agility and response.
“The 2024 Lexus RX lineup offers a wide range of powertrain options, allowing drivers to choose the perfect balance of power, efficiency, and performance to suit their driving style and needs.”
Innovative Suspension and Handling Systems
The 2023 Lexus RX has a top-notch suspension system. It offers a smooth ride and sharp handling. The SUV has a new setup with MacPherson front struts and a five-arm multi-link rear suspension. For a better drive, the Lexus RX has the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system available.
The Adaptive Variable Suspension system has 30 levels of damping adjustment. It uses electronic monitors and controls to adjust the suspension dampers. This is based on G-force, yaw rate, vehicle speed, and driver input.
This tech makes the ride smoother on rough roads. It also helps control body roll during fast turns. This makes the drive more enjoyable.
The Lexus RX F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance models have better brakes. They have opposed six-piston aluminum calipers and 15.74-inch front rotors. The F SPORT Performance model also has Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS). This system can steer up to 4 degrees for better handling.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) | Provides 30 levels of damping adjustment for optimal control on all road surfaces |
| Electronic Suspension Monitors and Controls | Adjusts damping force based on factors like G-force, yaw rate, vehicle speed, and driver input |
| Opposed Six-Piston Aluminum Calipers | Delivers enhanced braking performance on F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance models |
| Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) | Allows up to 4 degrees of steering angle for improved maneuverability on F SPORT Performance models |
The Lexus RX’s advanced suspension and handling systems make driving a pleasure. Whether you’re on winding roads or just cruising, the ride is smooth and controlled.
Next-Generation Safety Features
The 2024 Lexus RX has the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. It brings together top safety techs. This system includes pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road sign assist. All these features boost driver confidence and protect passengers.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 raises safety standards. It includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Uses cameras and radar to spot possible crashes and brake to prevent or lessen the impact.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns with sounds and lights if the car drifts out of its lane. It can steer the car back.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Keeps the car’s speed steady, following the car ahead, even in slow traffic.
- Road Sign Assist: Shows road signs, helping drivers adjust their speed according to the signs.
Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies
The 2024 Lexus RX also has extra safety features. These include:
- Surround-View Camera System: Gives a 360-degree view, making parking easier.
- Parking Sensors: Warns of objects near the car, helping with parking and slow moves.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Tells the driver about cars in their blind spots, making lane changes safer.
These features show Lexus’s dedication to safety. They make driving safer and more confident.
“The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is the most advanced standard safety system ever included in a Lexus, providing unparalleled protection for our drivers and passengers.”
Cutting-Edge Technology Integration
The 2024 Lexus RX is a showcase of top-notch tech integration. It comes with a cutting-edge infotainment system that makes driving better. At its core is a 14-inch touchscreen display, providing clear graphics and easy controls.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® integration is standard on the Lexus RX. It lets drivers connect their iPhones easily. This way, they can access lots of phone features without taking their eyes off the road.
For a more connected ride, the Lexus RX has wireless charging. This keeps your devices charged and ready. The digital cockpit gives drivers easy access to all important info and controls, making driving smoother.
The Lexus RX’s Lexus Interface system shows the brand’s dedication to the latest Lexus RX technology, infotainment system, and connectivity features. This digital digital cockpit connects with your digital life, making the Lexus RX a top choice in luxury SUVs.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 14-inch Touchscreen Display |
| Connectivity | Wireless Apple CarPlay |
| Charging | Wireless Charging Pad |
| Digital Cockpit | Fully Customizable Display |
“The Lexus RX’s infotainment system is a standout feature, providing seamless smartphone integration and an intuitive user experience that enhances the overall driving dynamics.”
Luxurious Comfort and Convenience Features
The 2024 Lexus RX raises the bar for driving comfort and convenience. It boasts premium seating, advanced climate control, and ambient lighting. Every detail in the RX’s interior is designed for an exceptional journey.
Premium Seating and Space
Experience ultimate comfort in the Lexus RX’s spacious seats. The front seats offer 41 inches of legroom, while the rear seats have 37 inches. This makes room for five adults comfortably.
The RX’s larger wheelbase means more space inside. You get 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. This expands to 46 cubic feet when the seats are folded.
Climate Control and Ambient Lighting
The Lexus RX’s climate control system keeps everyone comfortable. You can adjust the temperature and airflow to your liking. The customizable ambient lighting adds to the luxury, letting you choose from various colors.
Whether you’re driving in the city or on a long trip, the RX’s cabin ensures comfort for all. It’s perfect for any journey.
“The 2024 Lexus RX offers an unparalleled level of comfort and convenience, elevating the driving experience to new heights.”
Advanced Parking Assistance Systems
The 2023 Lexus RX comes with advanced parking tech. It makes parking easy and convenient. The system includes back-up, parallel, and forward-facing parking support. It also lets you exit parking spots forwards or in reverse from inside.
The Lexus RX Hybrid models have a special remote parking feature. This lets drivers park and exit using a smartphone app and smart key. No need to be inside the car. This feature is a big plus for parking ease and convenience.
Intuitive Parking Assistance
The Lexus RX’s parking systems are designed for easy parking. They use sensors and cameras for guidance. This helps drivers park in tight spaces with ease.
- Back-up Parking Assist: Helps the driver reverse into parking spots by providing guidance and alerts to avoid obstacles.
- Parallel Parking Assist: Automatically steers the vehicle into parallel parking spots, while the driver controls the throttle and brake.
- Forward-facing Parking Assist: Assists with navigating into forward-facing parking spaces, leveraging sensors and cameras to guide the driver.
- Parking Exit Assist: Enables the driver to exit a parking spot, either forwards or in reverse, without the need to physically exit the vehicle.
Remote Parking Functionality
The Lexus RX Hybrid models have a Remote Parking feature. Drivers can park and exit using a smartphone app and smart key. No need to leave the car.
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Parking | Allows the driver to park the Lexus RX Hybrid using a smartphone app and smart key, without being inside the vehicle. | Enhances accessibility and convenience, making parking easier in tight spots. |
| Remote Exit | Enables the driver to exit a parking spot, either forwards or in reverse, using the smartphone app and smart key. | Offers more control and flexibility when leaving parking spaces. |
The Lexus RX’s parking tech and remote parking on Hybrid models make parking easy. This tech makes parking more accessible and convenient. It improves the driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Performance
The 2024 Lexus RX shows great fuel efficiency, thanks to its hybrid models. The base engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. This makes the RX a top choice for luxury SUVs that save fuel.
Hybrid Model Efficiency
The Lexus RX 450h+ hybrid leads in fuel efficiency, with 36 mpg combined. Its advanced hybrid system combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. This setup, along with regenerative braking, boosts the RX 450h+’s fuel economy.
Eco-Friendly Engineering
Lexus is dedicated to being eco-friendly with the RX. Its design, lightweight build, and hybrid tech all help cut down on carbon emissions. By picking the Lexus RX Hybrid, you get a luxury ride that’s also good for the planet.
| Lexus Model | Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres) | Estimated Fuel Range (Miles) | Combined Fuel Economy (MPG) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX 450h | 65 | 510.5 – 517.7 | 35.7 – 36.2 |
| Lexus RX 450h L | 65 | 491.9 | N/A |
| Lexus NX 300h | 56 | 450.9 – 489.1 | N/A |
| Lexus ES 300h | 50 | 550.0 – 585.2 | N/A |
“The hybrid technology in the Lexus RX Hybrid contributes to improved fuel efficiency, and features such as regenerative braking and an intelligent hybrid system enhance the fuel economy of this eco-friendly SUV.”
Trim Levels and Customization Options
The 2023 Lexus RX lineup has many trim levels for different tastes and needs. The RX 350 and RX 350h are great for those who want performance and efficiency. The RX 350 has a 275-horsepower turbo engine, while the RX 350h has a 246-horsepower hybrid.
As you move up, the RX series adds more luxury and performance. The Premium and Premium+ trims have leather accents, a big 14-inch touchscreen, and advanced tech like Drive Connect. The Luxury trim adds semi-aniline leather, adjustable lumbar support, and a head-up display.
The RX 350 F SPORT HANDLING is for those who love a sporty drive. It has aluminum pedals, a sport-tuned suspension, and sporty styling. The RX 500h F SPORT PERFORMANCE is the top model, with a 366-horsepower hybrid engine, DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, and more. Prices start around $50,000, with the RX 500h reaching over $70,000.
