The new 2023 Lexus RX 350 is here, completely redesigned with tons of changes. The previous generations of this mid-size luxury crossover were super-popular, so it was expected to see the new generation with evolutionary changes. That’s exactly what we’ve seen. The new model keeps a familiar overall design but brings significant improvements in various aspects. Once again, the offer starts with the gasoline version but this time, the designation doesn’t have much in common with engine capacity.
As we’ve just mentioned, the new generation keeps the familiar designation but features a different engine. Instead of a 3.5-liter V6, there is the new turbo-four, with more torque and higher efficiency. Of course, the new generation brings new styling, along with a new interior design, which looks more modern than before but keeps the same level of overall quality. There are many things to like about the new 2023 Lexus RX 350, so let’s take a quick tour of some of the new model’s design and features.
2023 Lexus RX 350 Design
The 2023 Lexus RX 350 came completely redesigned. As you may presume, it switched to the TNGA platform, just like the rest of the range. The benefits are obvious, particularly in terms of driving manners. The center of gravity is lower, which ensures more engaging handling. At the same time, the suspension is on the soft side, so the new model retains its well-known smoothness and comfort, and emphasizes it even more.
The new model features the same length as its predecessor. On the other hand, the wheelbase is notably longer. Along with a longer hood, it makes the new generation look sportier. Of course, there is the new design language, characterized by the new iteration of the well-known spindle grille, which not looks subtler and more elegant.
Interior
Of course, this redesign has also brought a completely new interior design, characterized by a more modern look. While the previous generation was characterized by a pretty conservative aesthetical approach, the new dashboard comes with more modern shapes and also utilizes even finer materials. We like the ergonomics very much, as well as the good number of comfort and convenience features.
Thanks to the longer wheelbase, there is more legroom inside the vehicle. The front seats are massive and supportive, with a pretty impressive range of adjustability, so finding the perfect driving position is very easy. The second-row seats are also very generous with legroom and accommodate adults with ease. However, taller passengers may have little trouble with headroom, due to the sloping roof design.
The cargo area offers around 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats, which is OK for the segment. On the other hand, the total cargo volume of just 46.2 cubic feet is one of the smallest in the segment.
Features
The new RX comes with lots of standard and available equipment. Base versions include goodies like a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, satellite radio, a 12-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, six USB ports and a Wi-Fi hot spot, as well as a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless entry, push-button start, multi-zone automatic climate control and ambient lighting. Among upgrades, you can find options like a 14-inch touch screen, navigation, the Hey Lexus virtual assistant, a 21-speaker stereo, wireless device charging, a moonroof and a digital key app.
Traditionally, the RX is very generous with safety features. So, all models come standard with goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams etc. Among upgrades, you can find goodies like blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, parallel and perpendicular park assist, surround-view camera, head-up display, traffic-jam assist etc.
2023 Lexus RX 350 Engine
As we already mentioned, the new generation kept the same designation but doesn’t feature a good-old V6 anymore. Instead, the 2023 Lexus RX 350 is powered by the new 2.4-liter turbo-four, which features a max output of 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. As you can see, that’s a little bit less power compared to the V6 but notably more torque. As a result, driving dynamics are actually better, particularly in lower revs. On the other hand, you may presume what’s the biggest trade-off – yes, the new powertrain isn’t as smooth as the old V6.
The engine comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly and feels very refined. It sends power to the front, while you can also opt for all-wheel drive. When it comes to fuel economy, you may count on 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway (21/28 for AWD models), which is very good for the segment.
2023 Lexus RX 350 Release Date and Price
The 2023 Lexus RX 350 is already available, with a starting price of around 48.500 dollars. Of course, the competition remains the same, in the form of models like Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, Volvo XC90 etc.