2023 Lexus RX

image of a copper 2023 lexus rx

Overview

Since 1998, the Lexus RX has been a trailblazer within the luxury crossover segment owing to its trifecta of looks, features, and performance. Now with the 2023 model year on the horizon, an all-new iteration of this much-loved SUV will be hitting the market with a comprehensive series of updates. Although it won’t hit dealer lots until the fall of 2022, we have ample information from Lexus to whet the appetites of those interested in this premium vehicle.

New Platform and Powertrains

The reimagined 2023 Lexus RX will open the nameplate’s fifth generation riding on the new GA-K platform. In addition to a lower center of gravity, it offers a more refined ride quality due mainly to its significantly lighter construction. The new RX will also get a new multi-link suspension that’s attached to a stiff high-torsion rear body frame to optimize acceleration, deceleration, and steering. What’s more, this new RX will arrive with a varied powertrain lineup to accommodate drivers with differing preferences. There will be a traditional gas-burning engine, a conventional hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid.

Boldly Reimagined Exterior

For the 2023 model year, the RX’s exterior will center around a reinterpreted spindle grille that’s situated between elegant jewel-like headlights. The SUV’s lower body design evokes a more action-ready attitude, fortified by 19-inch dark-gray wheels, and an expressive LED light bar on the rear end that seamlessly wraps around the shoulders of the vehicle. The RX’s side view will show a unique three-dimensional look that cascades from the rear door and extends to the front tires.

Intuitively Designed Interior

The ’23 RX’s cockpit has been crafted to ensure freedom from distraction for the driver – in harmony with the expected level of Lexus comfort, of course. Some of the cabin’s highlighted amenities will consist of a head-up display, multi-colored ambient illumination, an airy panoramic glass roof, and the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a crisp 14.1-inch touchscreen that includes navigation, Drive Connect and Intelligent Assistant advanced voice recognition, and a deluxe Mark Levinson sound system with 21 pulsing speakers.

All-New F Sport Performance Trim

For the first time, the ’23 RX will be offered with an F Sport Performance trim. Its hallmark will be a hybrid powertrain consisting of a turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine and dual electric motors (one on the front axle and the other on the rear) that combine to produce a manufacturer-estimated 367 hp. This power mill will allow the ’23 RX to achieve a zero-to-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The F Sport Performance will also have an adaptive variable suspension and the DIRECT4 all-wheel drivetrain, which shifts power between the front and rear axles and can send up to 50 percent of the torque output to the rear wheels as appropriate. Some of the other notable F Sport Performance attributes include six-piston brake calipers, a confident-looking mesh grille, 21-inch wheels, and a dominating front bumper. Inside, the F Sport Performance will host a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, suede interior trim details, a special F Sport scuff plate, leather upholstery, and aluminum sport pedals.

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 Technologies

The RX has long been committed to ensuring the highest degree of safety, and the 2023 model will be no different. The advanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite will equip all ’23 RXs with a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, intersection support, and all-new motorcycle detection, as well as all-speed dynamic radar cruise control with new curve speed management, lane departure alert with steering assist, and an emergency driving stop system. Advanced park assist will be available, too, and on top of its basic back-up parking feature, it now assists with forward-facing parking. The ’23 RX will even get safe exit assist with digital latch, which prevents occupants from opening the door into oncoming traffic.