All-New 2023 Lexus RX Debuts with 500h F Sport Performance Goodness
The 2023 Lexus RX is here, and the fifth generation of this luxury crossover has been completely redesigned from the wheels to roof rails.
Over twenty years ago Lexus ushered in the luxury crossover segment with the first RX model. To this day the RX is the best-selling Lexus model. This groundbreaking vehicle is now entering its fifth generation. The 2023 Lexus RX is all-new and promises to be the most advanced, sportiest, and most efficient version ever. With six different grades and four redesigned powertrains, including three that are electrified, the new RX will have a flavor for everyone. Above all, those looking for the sportiest RX will be happy to learn that a new F Sport Performance grade will be available.
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“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, 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.” There is a lot to cover on the all-new 2023 Lexus RX so let’s jump right into the details
Exterior Design
One look at the new RX and you immediately recognize the iconic Lexus spindle design. There is no mistaking this for anything other than a Lexus. It stays true to the overall Lexus design theme while obviously being all-new. For example, out back is the signature L-shaped light bar. In addition, the side of the crossover flares towards the rear tire for a wider and more aggressive look. The 2023 RX will be offered in 10 exterior color options depending on grade: Ultra White, Eminent White Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Iridium, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Copper Crest, Nori Green Pearl, Nightfall Mica and Grecian Water. Six different grades will be offered: Standard, Premium, RX-first Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling and RX-first F SPORT Performance.
Interior Design
There are plenty of choices to make the interior of the RX suit your personal needs. “The 2023 RX will be offered in six interior color options with four ornamentation styles depending on grade. Interior colors: Macadamia, Black, Birch, Palomino, Peppercorn and Rioja Red. Ornamentation styles: Black Cascade, Ash Bamboo, Black Open Pore and Dark Graphite Aluminum. Driver controls like the steering wheel switches, available head-up display (HUD), available navigation and audio have been designed in a functional, concise layout to minimize driver distraction. Lexus Interface and trials come standard on the RX and a 14-inch Multimedia Touchscreen Display is available.”
GA-K Platform
The 2023 Lexus RX will ride on an all-new platform. The GA-K platform offers a low center of gravity and a lower weight overall. The RX is up to 198 pounds lighter than the outgoing generation. It’s a rare feat indeed to have the newest generation weigh less than the previous but Lexus has done it with the RX. The wheelbase has been stretched by 2.36 inches which should improve ride quality. But the rear overhang has also been reduced by 2.36 inches which results in the new RX having the same overall length as the previous generation.
Four Powertrains
The all-new RX will be offered in four new powertrain options. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid vehicle details will be released at a later time. But what we know now is there will be the RX 350 (FWD/AWD) with a 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine. This will be good for 275 horsepower. The RX 350h (AWD) fourth-generation large-capacity fuel-efficient hybrid system features a front unit that integrates a high-torque 2.5L inline-4 engine. This unit puts out 246 horsepower. And the most exciting option is of course the 2.4L turbocharged hybrid that is found in the new RX 500h F Sport Performance. The most powerful F Sport Performance will crank out 367 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque.
RX 500h F Sport Performance
This is big news. This is only the second F Sport Performance on offer from Lexus after the IS 500. And the first time this is offered on the RX. “The RX 500h F Sport Performance introduces a new hybrid electric system for the Lexus brand with a front unit that integrates a high-torque 2.4-liter turbo engine, six-speed automatic transmission, inverter and an electric motor, with an eAxle rear unit that integrates a high output electric motor, inverter and reduction gearbox.” The F Sport Performance also includes the DIRECT4 drivetrain. DIRECT4 AWD supplies optimal power to the eAxles to provide maximum grip, traction and acceleration in all situations. Other enhancements include opposed six-piston brake calipers, mesh grille, front bumper and 21-inch aluminum wheels. Lexus is estimating a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.9 seconds for this model.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
On top of all the dynamic changes the all-new Lexus takes safety very seriously. “For 2023, the all-new Lexus RX includes Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which provides additional features offered with the available driver monitor system, including: Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Intersection Support and a new feature of Motorcycle Detection; All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with new Curve Speed Management (DRCC); Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA); and Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS).” Also, for the first time ever on an RX Advanced Park is available and includes support for parallel parking.
Expected Arrival
The 2023 Lexus RX is expected to go on sale at the end of this year. However, what we don’t have yet is the pricing for the various grades and options for the new crossover. However, based on what we see here, we think it would be a safe bet to assume that the RX will continue to be a sales success for Lexus.
Images: Lexus
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