2023 Lexus RX Adds Turbos, Electrical Power

Because the Lexus RX approaches its twenty fifth anniversary, Toyota’s premium model is giving the unique luxurious crossover an entire makeover with a full new set of powertrain choices. For the primary time because it launched in 1998, the brand new RX is not going to have a six cylinder engine lineup, however it is going to get a plug in two variants.

The 2023 RX could also be all-new, but it surely needs to be instantly acquainted to anybody that has seen the fourth-generation mannequin. The greenhouse particularly appears to be like almost similar to the mannequin it replaces whereas the decrease sheetmetal sees some extra noticeable recontouring. The rocker panel upsweep stays however the wheel arches have turn out to be rounder than earlier than.

Essentially the most vital distinction is on the entrance the place the signature Lexus spindle grille has been reworked. As a substitute of the grille persevering with up over the entrance edge to the hood line, it now has a fade out impact because it approaches the crease between the headlights with the higher portion now being stable. The LED headlamps retain the stylized L signature lighting which could be discovered within the taillamps as nicely. Nevertheless, the again now contains a full width lightbar that emphasizes the the RX’s new stance.

The RX rides on a brand new platform dubbed GA-Okay that makes use of extra optimized constructions and supplies to attain weight reductions of as much as 198-lbs. The 192.5-inch general size stays unchanged, however the wheelbase has been stretched by 2.4-inches, with the rear axle shifting additional again and offering extra rear legroom. The rear wheels at the moment are supported by a brand new multi-link suspension structure instead of the previous double wishbone configuration. The peak has been decreased by 0.4-inch whereas the RX is now 1-inch wider.

Whereas the RX has beforehand provided four-cylinder engines in markets outdoors North America, we’ve solely had V6 items both standalone or with a hybrid system. This time the lineup begins with the bottom RX350 now powered by a 275-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged 4 that additionally offers 317 lb-ft of torque, a considerable enhance from the 267 lb-ft of the previous 3.5-liter V6. The mixture of decreased weight and extra torque ought to make the brand new RX really feel considerably extra responsive.

The RX hybrid has lengthy been the best-selling electrified mannequin within the Lexus lineup and this yr it’s getting the identical therapy the Toyota Highlander acquired final yr. Instead of the V6 hybrid structure beforehand provided, the RX350h has Toyota’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a hybrid transmission driving the entrance wheels and a second motor on the rear axle. That is projected to spice up EPA mixed gasoline financial system by 10% to 33 mpg in comparison with the previous RX450h.

Subsequent up is the primary plug-in hybrid RX, the RX 450h+. No particulars are offered on this variant but, however it is going to doubtless make the most of the same configuration to the Rav4 Prime and Lexus NX450h+ with an 18.1 kWh lithium ion battery, the two.5-liter 4 cylinder and elevated electrical energy entrance and rear for about 302-hp. Particulars on this mannequin are coming later.

Lastly, there’s the RX500h F Sport Efficiency. Previously, the F Sport has been little greater than a sporty look bundle with no notable mechanical upgrades. This time, it is going to be the best efficiency variant of the RX, using the two.4-liter turbocharged engine witht he hybrid drive for a mixed 367-hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. For the primary time, the RX 500h additionally makes use of a standard 6 pace automated transmission as an alternative of a CVT for a greater efficiency really feel. The RX500h additionally will get upgraded six-piston entrance brake calipers and 21-inch wheels together with a mesh grille so everybody else is aware of you bought one thing completely different.

The complete driver help suite that’s branded as Lexus Security System+ 3.0 is normal with options together with radar adaptive cruise management, lane centering, and blindspot monitoring. The pre-collision now options each pedestrian and bike detection along with intersection assist. The brand new RX lastly ditches Lexus’ horrible trackpad interface in favor of the newest technology infotainment system that debuted on the brand new NX. Which means a 14-inch middle touchscreen and the a lot cleaner and extra responsive person interface.

The brand new RXs are concentrating on an on sale date by the top of 2022, however no pricing info is out there but.