2023 Lexus RX Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

Despite a complete overhaul for 2023, Lexus's RX350 SUV retains its soft-riding road manners that seem tailor-made for its faithful buyers. While the RX Hybrid (reviewed separately) provides more pep, especially the available 367-hp F Sport Performance model, the nonhybrid RX350 reviewed here is rather poky. The RX's new styling looks much sharper than the outgoing model's and up front, there's a new version of the brand's wide-mouthed grille and Lexus's recognizable L-shaped running lights. Interior accommodations are more deluxe this time around, and the cabin features a large infotainment touchscreen and the latest tech features. The outgoing model was offered in either two- or three-row configurations but the 2023 RX is strictly a two-row affair. A three-row TX SUV is coming to the Lexus lineup soon for the 2024 model year.

What's New for 2023?

The RX rolls into its fifth generation with an all-new design, but it's still the soft-riding, quiet cruiser it's always been.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We think most RX350 buyers will be happy with the Premium Plus trim. This mid-range model adds luxuries such as the larger 14.0-inch infotainment screen, leather upholstery, an ambient interior lighting system, and more.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2024 RX350 comes standard with a 275-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional. On our first test drive, the turbo four failed to deliver notable performance, and we estimate it will deliver slightly slower acceleration than its 2022 analogue. Lexus had an opportunity to recast the new RX as a performer, but its chassis engineers regrettably chose not to dial in any additional cornering confidence. The RX350 is just as softly sprung and focused on luxury as the outgoing generation of RX, which will please faithful buyers but is unlikely to attract any driving enthusiasts.

0–60-MPH Times

With front-wheel drive, we estimate the RX350 will hit 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Adding all-wheel drive should shave a little time off, but we still think it'll need 6.9 seconds to hit 60 mph.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

According to the EPA, the RX350 earned ratings of 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models. The all-wheel drive RX350 is good for 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we'll take the RX350 on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route and update this story with real-world test results. For more information about the RX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The RX is offered exclusively as a two-row, five-seat SUV, which makes room above it for the new three-row TX. The RX's interior design is more modern than the last-generation model, with textured fabric sections on the upper door panels, rich-looking ambient lighting, and open-pore wood trim. Cargo space is generous behind the second-row seats, so there's plenty of space for a big load of groceries or several suitcases when road-tripping.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen is parked smack in the middle of the RX's redesigned dashboard; a larger 14.0-inch screen is optional. Like the smaller NX SUV, the RX's infotainment display is angled slightly toward the driver and uses Lexus's latest software interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are standard, but features such as navigation, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson stereo system are optional.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Lexus offers many standard driver-assistance features on its new cars and SUVs, and the RX is no different. The RX's automated emergency braking system can detect pedestrians as well as motorcyclists, and all models also come with adaptive cruise control with lane centering. For more information about the RX's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Lexus's limited warranty matches most of its rivals in this segment, and its powertrain warranty surpasses many. However, complimentary scheduled maintenance lasts only one year, whereas the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60 both offer lengthier terms.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for one year or 10,000 miles

More Features and Specs