The 2023 Lexus RX has been fully redesigned, but despite some changes to the underhood ingredients, it aims to bring drivers the same sense of luxury and comfort that defined its predecessors. The new SUV is available as a gas-powered RX350, an RX350h hybrid, and a higher-performing RX500h hybrid. (There's also a plug-in hybrid RX450h+ that will join the lineup later.)
The most noticeable change in the SUV's styling is the spindle grille. This design element has always been polarizing, and the new one likely will be too. Particularly, the bulging transition from the more upright trapezoidal lower section of the grille to the hood throws us off. The wheelbase is 2.4 inches longer, and the rear overhang is shorter. The previously available three-row L version gets the sack.
The entry-level RX350 swaps last year's V-6 for a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four. Mated to an eight-speed automatic, it makes 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That's 20 fewer horses than last year but an increase of 50 pound-feet. We expect the front-wheel-drive RX350 will reach 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive version should take 6.9 seconds. The last RX350 F Sport we tested required 6.7 seconds, which is rather slow for the class.
The RX350h is the responsible and efficient pick. Its hybrid powertrain now features a non-turbo Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter four, and fuel economy is estimated at 36 mpg combined. A continuously variable transmission with two electric motors turns the front wheels, while a third electric motor drives the rears. Combined output comes to 246 horses and 233 pound-feet, which should get the RX350h to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds.
The RX500h represents a high-performance hybrid counterpoint, with the turbo-four engine and a more potent rear electric motor that combine for 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet. We expect it'll reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
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The Best Odds
SOMETIMES-NOT OFTEN, BUT sometimes-car manufacturers create something semi-wondrous that is also borderline irrational and three-quarters inexplicable to their own marketing types.
Mileage Booster
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Medium Spicy
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Drivelines
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