Lexus RX Review 2023
The Lexus RX is a premium hybrid SUV that's available as either a self-charging or plug-in hybrid. Offering a viable alternative to the German brands that dominate the SUV class, the RX comes with a high-quality interior and a smooth drivetrain.
Rivals to the RX include the Range Rover Sport, Volvo XC90, BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Porsche Cayenne.
Our Lexus RX review covers:
- Modern and sporty exterior
- High-quality interior with loads of space
- 461-litre boot
- Three hybrid powertrains available
- Five trim levels available
Pros:
- Premium interior with large touchscreen
- Relaxing to drive
- Plenty of equipment
Cons:
- Boot space falls short of rivals
- Expensive as you move up through the trim levels
- Rivals are more fun to drive
The first thing you'll notice about the RX is that it absolutely looks the part. It features creases throughout the body, giving it a sporty look, while the large front grille gives it an aggressive road presence. Good job, Lexus.
Climb inside the RX, and you'll find more than enough space for your family. Two adults can easily fit up front, and there's also loads of storage space, including large door pockets and several separate storage compartments. In the rear, there's enough space for a pair of adults to properly relax, and if you add a third into the middle seat, space is still relatively generous.
The RX has 461 litres of boot space, which is pretty small for a family SUV and falls way short of the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7. It should be good enough to fit your luggage for a weekend away and also features some underfloor storage and a powered tailgate as standard.
The interior of the RX is fantastic; there are loads of high-quality materials, and the simple design makes for a pleasant and comfortable experience. You get a synthetic leather trim as standard, which can be upgraded to proper leather, and every touchpoint feels immensely built.
On the dash is a 14-inch, yes 14-inch, touchscreen infotainment system with a DAB radio, smartphone mirroring, navigation, and voice control. Even though it's a large screen, Lexus has kept some traditional dials to control the climate control, which we really like.
From the Premium Pack Plus trim, the RX has a head-up display projected onto the windscreen to help with directions and driver information.
Five trim levels are available for the Lexus RX: Premium Pack, Premium Pack Plus, Takumi, F Sport, and F Sport with Takumi.
Premium Pack has 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, roof rails, three-zone air conditioning, Tahara seats and steering wheel, heated front seats, a 14-inch touchscreen display, smart entry, five USB ports, and a wireless mobile phone charger.
Premium Pack Plus has 21-inch alloy wheels, smooth leather seats, a leather steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a head-up display, a panoramic view monitor, 64-colour ambient lighting, and a driver monitor.
Takumi has a wood and leather steering wheel, semi-aniline leather, auto and remote parking, a Mark Levinson 21-speaker premium surround sound system, and a panoramic sunroof.
F Sport has 21-inch F Sport alloy wheels, F Sport styling, adaptive variable suspension, active sound control, and three-zone air conditioning with Nonoe-E.
F Sport with Takumi Pack has a digital interior rearview mirror and a panoramic sunroof.
The RX is available in three powertrains: either a self-charging hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, or a turbocharged petrol hybrid. All come with an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
The entry-level option is the 2.5-litre four-cylinder self-charging hybrid. It returns 250hp and shoots from 0-62mph in just under eight seconds while returning a fuel economy of around 45mpg. It's very pleasant to drive and is more than good enough for everyday tasks.
The plug-in hybrid, labelled the 450h+, combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a pair of electric motors to return a power output of 309hp. It shoots from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and has an all-electric range of 67 miles.
Using an 18.1kWh battery, you'll be able to charge the 450h+ at speeds of up to 6.6kW, which charges from 0-100% in 2.5 to 9 hours.
The last option is the RX 500h, a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol hybrid engine that returns 371hp and shoots from 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds. The quickest and most powerful RX, there's plenty of grunt from low revs, which make it a breeze to get up to motorway speed.
The RX is a comfortable and composed car to drive, but it lacks a little fun. Around town, the RX is assisted by its electric motors, which helps keep running costs low. There's an EV drive mode available that solely uses the electric motor. You also get a range of driver assistance systems, such as all-around cameras to help navigate car parks and city streets.
Increase up to motorway speeds, which you'll have no issue doing, and the RX is a reliable cruiser. The petrol engine begins to kick in to provide a bit more power, and once at 70mph, you can settle in for a relaxing long journey.
Our only qualm with the RX is that it's less engaging on a country road than the Porsche Cayenne. Although Sport mode does sharpen up the throttle slightly, it's still a composed drive and prefers safety over fun (which is no bad thing).
Prices for the new Lexus RX start from £61,824.00 OTR* or to lease from £545.46 per month.
Looking to get behind the wheel of the Lexus RX? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.
Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.
*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.
