2023 Lexus RX Gets Bold Styling Revisions, New PHEV Model
The all-new, fifth-generation Lexus RX made its debut on Tuesday night. As the brand’s best-seller in Canada, the RX is an extremely important product (it’s also built in Ontario), so the redesigned 2023 model was highly anticipated to say the least.
Riding on the GA-K platform, the new Lexus RX boasts a lower centre of gravity, 60 mm of extra wheelbase and a weight reduction of 90 kg compared with its predecessor.
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The in-your-face spindle grille design has been reinterpreted for midsize SUV. We suspect it will continue to put off some customers—just look at the pictures and see for yourself.
New Plug-in Hybrid Variant
Arguably the most notable change or addition for 2023 is the new plug-in hybrid model called RX 450h+. Unfortunately, details for the North American market are not ready to be shared at this time. If the smaller NX 450h+ is any indication, a 2.5L gasoline engine will combine with an electric drive unit and an 18.1kWh battery for a zero-emission range of approximately 60 km.
The regular hybrid variant is back, of course, though its 3.5L V6 is replaced by a 2.5L four-cylinder. Still called RX 350h, it now generates just 246 hp instead of 308 hp. Helped by a CVT, average fuel consumption is estimated at 7.1 L/100 km.
Meanwhile, the entry-level RX 350 gets a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine producing 275 hp and 311 lb-ft. of torque. That’s right: the V6 is completely gone for 2023. Here, power delivery is handled by an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Oh, and we haven’t talked about the new RX 500h F Sport Performance yet. This model combines the aforementioned turbo-four with hybrid technology for a total of 357 hp and 406 lb-ft. of torque. Lexus claims it can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.
Transformed Interior
The 2023 Lexus RX lineup offers seven trim levels including Premium, Luxury, Ultra-Luxury, Executive, F SPORT 1, F SPORT 2 and F SPORT 3.
Similar to previous years, a host of interior combinations are available. The thing we’re the most excited about is the new Lexus Interface infotainment system powering a large 14-inch touchscreen. No more touchpad on the centre console. Amen.
The Lexus Safety System+ is upgraded to version 3.0, which provides additional features offered with the available driver monitor system, including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Intersection Support and a new feature of Motorcycle Detection; All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with new Curve Speed Management; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; and Emergency Driving Stop System.
The 2023 Lexus RX is expected to go on sale at the end of this year. Canadian pricing starts at $58,650 for the RX 350, $60,150 for the RX 350h, and $79,800 for the RX 500h.
