Lexus, renowned for its commitment to luxury and innovation, this week unveiled the new generation of its iconic RX model in the breathtaking backdrop of Cape Town, South Africa. This event showcased four impressive variants: the RX 350 SE, RX 350 F Sport, RX 350h SE, and RX 500h F Sport, each leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to witness the unveiling.
The new Lexus RX boasts a refined exterior design, characterized by a bold and mature stance. The standard models' most striking feature is the seamless Spindle grille that commands attention at the front. Enhanced by three projector B-Beam LED headlights with AHS (Adaptive High-beam System) and neatly integrated side air intakes, the front fascia exudes a sense of power and elegance. The F Sport variant adds a sporty twist with a bespoke front bumper, a more dynamic front grille and sportier side air intakes. The F Sport grille features an exclusive mesh pattern.
From a side view, the RX commands attention with its massive 21-inch alloy wheels and stunning chrome finishes that run along the door frames. Sculpted surfaces on the door panels, flared rear wings add a unique design trait. The sloping roofline adds a touch of sportiness with the characteristic “floating roof” effect created by blacked-out rear-pillars is retained but given a stronger three-dimensional appearance. The panoramic roof opens up the cabin to natural light. F Sport also gains 21-inch, exclusive, multi-spoke, black gloss aluminium wheels.
The rear end of the vehicle features distinctive LED taillights, a sleek strip across the boot, a redesigned Lexus badge, an integrated spoiler, and a shark fin antenna, all contributing to the sporty and premium look. The rear combination lights are set in a light bar that spans the width of the car and wraps around the corners to heighten the wider look which is further underlined by the new LEXUS word logo. There are nine exterior colours on offer for non-F Sport models and seven for F Sport variants.
Step inside the new Lexus RX, and you'll be enveloped in opulence and sophistication. The cabin showcases a driver-centered 14-inch touchscreen, advanced navigation, seamless smartphone integration with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There is a Mark Levinson Audio system with an astonishing 21 speakers that comes standard on all models. The cabin also offers convenient features such as wireless charging, five USB ports (three in the front and two in the rear), a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display that seamlessly integrates steering wheel functions.
Comfort is a top priority, with heated and ventilated seats, seat memory settings for both the driver and passenger, door lock/unlock buttons on all handles, a tri-zone air conditioner, front and rear seat heaters and ventilators, rear seats with power folding functionality, and much more. The luxurious suede finishes on the dashboard and doors complete the premium look and feel of the interior.
Lexus places great emphasis on safety, and the new RX doesn't disappoint. All models come equipped with an array of safety features, including ten airbags, a digital rearview mirror, adaptive cruise control, and much more, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Cargo volume is 612 litres with the rear seats in place. This gives enough space to carry four 9.5-inch golf bags or two 77-litre and two 63-litre suitcases. There is extra space beneath the deck for tools and smaller items and roof rails are available so that accessories such as roof boxes and cycle carriers can be fitted.
Driving the new Lexus RX is an exceptional experience, thanks to its impressive performance and agile handling. The RX 350 is powered by a new turbocharged 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine producing 205 kW and 430 Nm of torque. The RX350 gets a short-ratio eight-speed Direct Shift-8AT. The electronically controlled full-time AWD constantly varies the front-to-rear driving force distribution from 75:25 to 50:50 (depending on situation) to achieve an optimal contact patch and linear steering feel. The 0-100km/h sprint takes 7,6 seconds, while an average fuel consumption of 8,7L/100km is achievable.
The RX 350h takes a hybrid approach, combining a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with hybrid components, delivering a peak system power of 184 kW. This model comes with a CVT transmission. 0-100km/h acceleration is claimed at 7.9 seconds with efficiency at 5,4 litres per 100km. It is equipped with E-Four electric all-wheel drive as standard.
The RX 500h F Sport combines the new 2.4-liter turbocharged with an HEV powertrain resulting in an impressive peak power output of 273 kW with 550Nm of torque, endowing this RX with a 0-100km acceleration time of 6,2 seconds, yet fuel consumption is still very well contained at just 6,5L/100km. The intelligent all-wheel drive system uses a separate electric motor and inverter to constantly balance the power and torque between the front and rear axles in any driving situation.
The RX450h+ has a plug-in hybrid system that features a four-cylinder Atkinson cycle 2.5-litre hybrid engine (paired to the Lexus e-CVT system) and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with 18.1kWh capacity. An additional rear electric motor enables Lexus E-Four fulltime all-wheel drive. While it offers similar power to the outgoing RX 450h, it produces more torque and faster acceleration. Total output is 227kW, which enables 0-100km/h acceleration in a brisk 6.5 seconds with fuel economy (drive mode-dependent) pegged at an unbelievably low average of just 1,3 litres/100km. The RX 450h+ is fitted with a 6.6kW on-board charger. With a 230V/32A connection, a full battery recharge can be accomplished in about two hours 45 minutes. The RX 450h PHEV will launch officially to the public by November.
In conclusion, the new generation Lexus RX represents a remarkable blend of luxury, innovation, and performance. From its refined exterior design to its opulent interior and advanced safety features, this SUV offers an all-encompassing driving experience. Whether you seek the elegance of the RX 350 or the sportiness of the F Sport variants, Lexus has crafted a lineup that caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that the RX continues to be a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment.
Lexus RX Pricing
| Model | Price |
| Lexus RX350 | R1 424 000 |
| Lexus RX 350h | R1 458 300 |
| Lexus RX 350h F Sport | R1 543 200 |
| Lexus RX 500 F Sport | R1 684 300 |
| Lexus RX 450h+ | TBC on release to dealer period (Nov. ’23) |
Every Lexus RX is delivered with the Lexus Warranty Experience featuring an industry leading seven years/105 000km and for the Hybrid models, a leading eight years/195 000 km battery warranty.