Lexus Has published its fifth generation RX Large SUV – Built on the latest company GA-K platform, completely redesigned exterior and interior, and a new selection of engines with different hybrids.
The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE have been confirmed for the company’s latest rival Australia, but the company will wait for us after 2022 to reveal the local powertrain, specification, price and arrival time.
This new RX closely follows the revelations of the smaller new generation NX mid-size SUV, the larger (Toyota LandCruiser-based) LX body-on-frame SUV, and the RZ All-Electric SUV.
New Look 2023 A highlight of the Lexus RX is the confirmation of a new flagship RX500h The F Sport Performance variant is a “high-output” eAxle rear electric motor with a hybrid system powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
Other powertrain options include a regular 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. RX350For this a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid RX450hAnd a 2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for RX450h+
This state-of-the-art model means the RX will be the NX450h + after Lexus’ second PHEV.
Two- and all-wheel drive options will be available, Lexus adds, while older V6 options have been discontinued in favor of these more efficient new options.
The new RX makes an unchanged measure 4890 mm longBut the wheelbase 2850mm at 60mm long, frees up more interior space.
The released 2023 Lexus RX is a five-seater, no mention of today’s extended seven-seater model follow-up. But it is expected that Lexus will launch a new ‘TX’ three-row model to fill that gap.
The back luggage space is lengthened by 50 mm courtesy of a thin hatch door while the load height is reduced by 30 mm for “more useful overall luggage space”.
The overall width increased by 25mm to 1920mm, and the height decreased by 10mm to 1695mm
Lexus says these changes reduce the center of gravity which contributes to safer driving performance, but the size differences are small.
The front suspension features the McPherson Strut while the rear uses a “new advanced” multi-link system that presumably creates a more efficient interior space.
The RX500h F Sport’s performance is further enhanced by the adaptive suspension, rear-axle steering and six-piston front brakes.
In terms of design, the new Lexus RX is known to have a “unique identity”, but there are obviously many design elements drawn from the smaller Lexus NX.
On the front is the company’s signature spindle grille and an L-shaped daytime running light signature. The F Sport models have a different front bumper design with a wider and lower position, and Body color bottom panel and black stainless-steel window molding.
All around, the new RX features a simple SUV silhouette, like the NX, with electronically-latching doors and sharp creases, round wheel arches and door scallops. It’s not as angular as its predecessor and looks a lot like the most recent Lexus car.
There is a full-width light bar at the back.
The interior of the RX is based on the ‘Tazuna’ design philosophy, which apparently allows the driver to focus on driving, still creating a spacious, open interior.
There are two different central touchscreen sizes available, a 9.8-inch and a 14-inch, as well as a digital instrument cluster – just like the NX.
Drivers will be able to communicate with the head-up display using the trackpad-style button / switch on the steering wheel. These buttons control a variety of functions, including navigation and audio.
Other interior features listed as available include multi-colored ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, as well as heated and ventilated seats.
Five interior colors and 10 exterior colors will be available. There is also a new Sonic Copper metallic paint option.
On the security front, the new Lexus RX has the following security tools:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Radar cruise control
- Traffic jam support
- Lane exit warning
- Lane tracing assistance
- Active driving assistance
- Abnormal driver status response system
- Remote vertical and parallel parking
- Safe departure assistance
Lexus is offering a new RX with over-the-air (OTA) updates that allow you to update functions, add new functions and improve performance.
There is also a smartphone app that can be used as a digital key and allows functions such as remote locking and unlocking and remote engine start.
John Pappas, CEO of Lexus Australia, said: “The latest RX incorporates the latest technology and security features to provide the ultimate refinement, comfort and luxury for our customers.
“The new powertrains will provide pleasing performance and expand RX’s appeal to a wider range of customers.”
As mentioned above, the Australian Lexus RX model line-up, specification, price and date of sale will be announced later in 2022.
More: Everything Lexus RX