The new generation of the super-popular luxury SUV is here, the fifth one. For 25 years of production, the RX build a reputation as one of the best SUVs around, so it’s no wonder that the new model draws a lot of attention. It will hit the market soon abut the company already presented it. From what we can see, there will be four powertrain options on the offer. Besides the base turbo-four, the company will also offer three hybrid powertrains and among them, we expect the 2023 Lexus RX 450h to be the most popular choice, due to the great balance between performance, and efficiency and price.
Just like the Highlander did, the new 450h will drop the V6-based setup and come with a system that combines a four-cylinder engine with electric motors and a large battery pack, featuring essentially a plug-in hybrid setup. The new generation will also bring improvements regarding interior quality, ride quality and many other aspects. Of course, the new generation also brings a completely new styling.
2023 Lexus RX 450h Design
Design-wise, the 2023 Lexus RX 450h won’t be any different compared to the rest of the lineup. The new generation finally adopts Toyota’s new TNGA architecture, which brings significant improvements. The center of gravity is lower, while the new generation is lighter by nearly 200 pounds. All this will have a big impact on the ride quality, which has been super comfortable so far, but not particularly engaging.
Of course, this redesign also brings a completely new exterior design. The new model drops the polarizing spindle grille layout and comes with a new design language that takes a little bit more conservative approach. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the wheelbase is now 2.4 inches longer, which has a positive impact not just on the passenger space, but also provides shorter overhangs. As a result, the new model looks sportier.
Interior
Of course, the interior design is also completely new. The RX has always been famous for impressive build quality but the aesthetics were considered too conservative by some critics. This changes with the new generation, as the new cabin looks flashier and more attractive. You can notice nicer materials, including available Bamboo, open-pore wood and aluminum, as well as a massive 14.0-inch touchscreen, which feels way more intuitive than the previous touch-pad-based infotainment system.
As we already mentioned, the 2023 Lexus RX 450h features 2.4 inches more in the wheelbase. We believe this will provide more space on the inside, especially for the passengers in the second row. Traditionally, Lexus makes some of the best front seats in the business, so we expect nothing less from the new model. The cargo area should be more generous with the room as well.
Features
When it comes to standard equipment, Lexus hasn’t come up with details yet. Still, we presume that things like a massive 14.0-inch infotainment screen will be standard, along with goodies like a digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Wi-Fi hotspot, voice recognition, premium audio system and many more.
We also count on a long list of safety features. Some of the things we expect to be standard are goodies like a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering assist, adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring and many more.
2023 Lexus RX 450h Engine
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Lexus RX 450h comes with a new hybrid powertrain. Just like the Highlander did a few years ago, it drops a V6-based hybrid setup and comes with the setup that combines a 2.5-liter inline-four with a couple of electric motors. However, that model will be called the RX 350h, while the 450h will feature a plug-in hybrid setup.
The company hasn’t come up with the numbers yet but we presume the max output will be slightly higher compared to the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which also features a PHEV setup. We presume that the max output could go around 310 horsepower. Also, the battery could be slightly bigger and we presume it should be able to ensure 35-40 miles of the all-electric range.
As you may presume, the system will be paired with a CVT gearbox, which will send power to all wheels.
2023 Lexus RX 450h Release Date and Price
The 2023 Lexus RX 450h will arrive along with the rest of the lineup, later this year. The exact price is yet to be announced. Still, we estimate that the starting price of this version could cost around 65.000 dollars. On the other hand, the base version, equipped with a turbo-four gasoline engine, should cost around 50.000 dollars.
