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2023 Lexus RX
Already the top-selling model in the Lexus lineup, the next generation of the popular RX luxury crossover premiered at the Lexus New Product Showcase at Toyota Motor North America Headquarters in Plano, Texas. The redesigned fifth-generation 2023 Lexus RX features a bold, new look and a range of electrified drivetrains including the powerful RX 500h F SPORT Performance and the RX 450h+ plug-in, scheduled to arrive later.
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Front-End Design
The spindle grille has become a hallmark of Lexus models, and the next generation RX continues to evolve the spindle design to what Lexus now calls the spindle body design. The seamless grille design flows up into the hood and out to the front fenders with integrated headlights and signature Lexus L accent lights.
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Side, Rear Design
From the side view, an accent line rises up from the rocker panel and flares from the rear door into the rear fender. The planted stance is emphasized by body-color over fenders and standard 19-inch dark gray machined finish wheels, or available 21-inch wheels in other colors. At the rear, the new RX receives an L-shaped full-width light that widens and wraps into the rear fenders and incorporates Lexus lettering in place of a Lexus L badge.
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Human-Centered Design
“Nothing exemplifies our commitment to the transformation we’re making as a brand and Next Chapter for Lexus product more than the renewal of our best-selling vehicle — the RX,” said Andrew Gilleland, group vice president and general manager of the Lexus Division. “We’re breathing new life into the segment-leading RX with enhanced safety and technology, human-centered design and undeniable performance from a diverse mix of powertrains,” Gilleland noted.
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Model Lineup
The 2023 Lexus RX will be offered in six trim levels: Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, L SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance. Both Premium + and F SPORT Performance are new versions for the next-generation RX. Three powertrain options will be offered initially: RX 350 in both front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, RX 350h with all-wheel drive, and RX 500h F SPORT Performance with all-wheel drive. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid will arrive later with more details provided at a future date.
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Under the Hood
Thx RX 350 is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque that gets combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350h is powered by a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and CVT with an electric motor for total system output of 246 horsepower and 233lb-ft of torque and achieving manufacturer estimated 33 MPG combined.
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RX 500h F SPORT Performance
The new RX 500h F SPORT Performance features a powerful new hybrid electric system for Lexus with a front drive unit that combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, a 6-speed automatic transmission, an inverter and an electric motor and an eAxle rear unit with a high-output electric motor, inverter and reduction gearbox. The electric motor provides low-end torque for improved performance and quick acceleration, while the turbocharged engine delivers high torque throughout its rev range for acceleration at higher speeds. Total system output is 367 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. The DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system controls torque distribution to maximize grip, traction and acceleration in different driving situations.
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RX 500h F SPORT Performance
Additional equipment for RX 500h F SPORT Performance includes 6-piston front brake calipers, a mesh grille and 21-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the RX 500h F SPORT Performance adds a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel, paddle shifters, suede door trim, F SPORT sill plates, a leather-trimmed interior and aluminum pedals.
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2023 Lexus RX Interior
The Lexus RX continues to offer a comfortable, quiet and luxurious interior as well as an available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display for the Lexus Interface Multimedia System. The doors open easily via the e-Latch system, and interior options include multi-color illumination accents, a range of interior trim options and available panorama glass roof.
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Dimensional Updates
The 2023 Lexus RX is built on the GA-K platform, which is lighter and more rigid than the outgoing model. The new RX rides on a 2.36-inch longer wheelbase but the rear overhang is reduced to retain the same overall length as the previous model while improving rear seat legroom. The reduced weight and stiffer platform also offer increased ride comfort and interior quietness. The new RX also features a new multi-link rear suspension.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
