The best-selling Lexus RX midsize SUV, which has broken ground for Lexus since it first hit the scene in 2005, introduces its fifth-generation lineup, an RX 500h hybrid. In addition, it has been completely redesigned for 2023 with an aggressive look, powerful performance, and hybrid technology.
As an automotive enthusiast, I have always been drawn to luxury SUVs that perfectly balance comfort, performance, and safety, and the 2023 Lexus RX 500h is a perfect example of a luxury SUV that checks all these boxes.
The new Lexus RX 500h has a new hybrid system, a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission rather than the planetary gearset typical of Toyota hybrid powertrains. It makes a total of 367 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. In addition, Lexus says that the all-wheel-drive system, which it calls Direct4, incorporates a more powerful electric motor on the rear axle to improve handling performance.
Models/Price: The RX lineup includes the base RX 350 FWD and AWD (starting at $48,550), the RX 350h hybrid (starting at $50,150), and the powerful RX 500h hybrid (starting at $62,750 MSRP). A plug-in RX 500+ hybrid recently joined the lineup.
Power: Although the 2023 Lexus RX offers four new engines, I experienced the RX 500h F Sport Performance powered by a turbo 2.4-liter inline-four that produces 271 horsepower. It is paired with a high output, low-resistance nickel-metal hydride battery, combining to generate 366 horses and 406 lb-ft of torque.
The new exterior is more muscular than the outgoing model, with sharp lines and contours that give it a modern look. The front grille is bold and striking, with the Lexus logo prominently displayed in the center. The LED headlights and taillights are sleek and contemporary, and the body lines are sharp and well-defined. The 20-inch alloy wheels are stylish and add to the overall sporty look of the SUV.
The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with premium materials and room for five passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with a 10-way power adjustment for the driver and front passenger. The rear seats are also adjustable, allowing passengers to recline and enjoy the ride.
In addition, the 2023 Lexus RX 500h has a 12.3-inch touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system wired to a 12-speaker premium sound system. Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a panoramic view monitor, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad.,
Safety: The 2023 Lexus RX 500h is packed with advanced safety features that provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers. The SUV comes with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high beams. Other safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The SUV also has ten front, side, and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger. The 2023 Lexus RX 500h has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Fuel Efficiency: The 2023 Lexus RX 500h delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It also has an EV mode that allows it to operate on electric power alone for short distances.
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