Here's How the Lexus RX Has Evolved Over the Years

A Real Trailblazer

When it first debuted in 1998, the Lexus RX 300 was the world's first-ever luxury crossover utility vehicle (CUV), a pretty amazing feat considering how incredibly popular that segment is today. Lexus sold 42,000 units in the RX 300's first year, setting the stage for booming growth over the ensuing quarter-century. Thus, with the pending debut of the all-new 2023 RX, now is the perfect time to take a look back at how we got here.

Photos: Lexus

First Generation (1999-2003)

The Lexus RX 300 was designed to be comfortable and capable, both on and off the pavement. It achieved that goal with a 220-horsepower 3.0-liter double-overhead-cam V6 engine, available 4WD, up to 75 cubic feet of cargo space, flexible seating for five, and interior noise reduction.

Photos: Lexus

Second Generation (2004-2009)

The second generation RX brought forth a more powerful engine, more legroom, and more options like 40/40/40 split design rear seats. The 2004 Lexus RX 330 boasted a 230-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, paired with a strengthened structure and a revised available all-wheel drive system for a more comfortable and controlled drive. Its hybrid counterpart - the RX 400h - came to be known as the world’s first luxury hybrid sport utility vehicle - yet another booming segment in today's automotive world.

Photos: Lexus

Third Generation (2010-2015)

The third-generation RX debuted with advanced available all-wheel drive, ample cargo space, and new, unique exterior styling. While both models were equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine, the 2010 RX 450h was designed to deliver up to 295 total system horsepower. The hybrid model also boasted exhaust-heat recovery and cooled exhaust-gas recirculation systems, allowing for improved fuel economy and emissions compared to previous RX generations.

Photos: Lexus

Fourth Generation (2016-2022)

The fourth-generation Lexus RX 350 and 450h offered upgraded luxurious features when they debuted in 2016. Thanks to increases in width and length by 0.4 inches and 4.7 inches, respectively, and a wheelbase lengthening of nearly 2 inches, the fourth-generation RX’s interior provided passengers with ample leg, head, and cargo space. Its exterior benefitted from several design updates, including a new fascia featuring an emboldened spindle grille, sharp character lines that added an unexpected flair to the vehicle, and new LED taillights. The RX 350 and 450h were both powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, giving them more horsepower than the previous generation.

Photos: Lexus

Fifth Generation (2023-)

The all-new, fifth-generation Lexus RX was designed using innovative computational analysis, integration of enhanced materials, and repeatable high-stress testing performed at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. The technological, stylistic, and state-of-the-art improvements offer RX a highly diverse powertrain portfolio encompassing Lexus Electrified variants, as well as the Lexus-first DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. And, for the first time ever, a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) variant will be available.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the RX over the years right here at ClubLexus.com.

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