2023 Lexus RX 350h Hybrid
Overview
Since its introduction in the late 1990s, the Lexus RX has developed a strong fan base. So when Toyota redesigned this popular mid-size luxury SUV for 2023, it didn’t mess with success. Tweaks include sharper exterior styling; upgraded build quality for cabin materials; more driver assistance features as standard; and more legroom. Most importantly, Toyota introduced a new hybrid in the RX lineup for 2023: the RX 350h, which replaces the previous RX 450h. As the number change implies, the new four-cylinder 350h has somewhat less horsepower than last year’s six-cylinder hybrid. But it’s a lot more efficient, too, with an impressive 600-mile driving range.
The Perfect Ride for…
The driver who wants the reliability and fuel efficiency of an all-wheel drive commuter vehicle, without stinting on comfort or luxury appointments. With decent cargo space (29.6 cubic feet) and spacious accommodations for five people, the 2023 Lexus RX 350h will transport the whole family to weekend getaways—in style. There’s no need to leave behind any toys when haring off for those weekends since the RX 350h has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped). The exterior styling changes for 2023—from the larger headlights to the sleek integration between the woven front grille and vehicle sides—give the RX a more athletic appearance. Nevertheless, this SUV remains first and foremost a luxury method of transportation, ensuring a smooth, quiet ride. With an eye to its comfort-loving clientele, Toyota had no intention of turning the RX into some rock-climbing brute or cramped speedster.
Drive and Handling
The 2023 Lexus RX 350h has a hybrid powertrain, consisting of two electric motors (one powering the rear axle, one for the front) and a 4-cylinder, 2.5L turbocharged gasoline engine. Equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission, it generates 246 horses, with 233 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in an unremarkable 7.4 seconds. But the fuel economy is awesome for a mid-sized luxury SUV: 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. But then, the Lexus RX 350 h is the only hybrid among mid-sized luxury SUVs.
Toyota offers four trims for the Canadian-built RX 350h. The base model comes with lots of posh amenities that are standard. These include triple-zone climate control, eight-way, power-adjustable seats, satellite radio, a power liftgate, a power-adjustable steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, and a boatload of driver assistance features. The next trim up, the Premium, adds front-seat ventilation, roof rails, interior wood trim, and a power sunroof. The Premium+ offers upgraded ambient lighting, a heated wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, and a 14-inch (instead of a 9.8-inch) touchscreen. With the top-of-the-line Luxury trim, the wheel size increases from 19” to 21”, the leather upholstery is upgraded, and the front seats have ten power-adjusted settings, with four-way lumbar adjustments.
Key Features
A wide array of safety features is standard in the 2023 Lexus RX 350h. They include adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, a rearview camera, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Among the optional driver-assistance features are front and rear parking sensors; a safe-exit system to prevent rear-seat passengers from opening a door into traffic approaching from the rear; surround-view parking cameras; automated parking; and traffic-jam assist, allowing hands-free driving in stop-and-go conditions.
Some of the tech options are downright innovative and not often seen in the competition: for example, a program that turns a smartphone into an ignition key, plus a digital rearview mirror, allowing visibility through a fully loaded cargo space.
Alternative Options
Want more sport? Take a look at the Lexus RC instead. This sporty coupe is perfect for drivers who want to experience the performance of Lexus. For drivers who want a nimble crossover, the Lexus UX is the solution. Spacious yet agile, the UX is made for drivers who often navigate busy city streets.
Not sure what you're looking for yet? The MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup team is here to navigate you through the selection and purchasing process with transparency and efficiency. Contact us online today to experience the difference.
Image Credit: Lexus