Lexus has premiered the completely renewed, fifth generation of its global core model, the luxury crossover 2023 RX, featuring a diverse powertrain offering that includes a new plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) model. The automaker also introduced the RX 500h Sport Performance model. 

In addition to an entirely redesigned interior and exterior, the new RX combines high rigidity and light weight and features a GA-K platform with multi-link rear suspension. The model’s powertrain lineup aims “to meet diverse customer needs while contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society,” says the car manufacturer. 

Powertrain options include a 2.4L turbocharged hybrid electric (HEV) DIRECT4, Lexus’ electrification technology; 2.5L PHEV-E-Four with leading E cruising range; 2.5L HEV E-Four/FF featuring low fuel consumption; and the 24L turbocharged AWD. 

Advanced preventive safety technology features the Lexus Safety System, providing automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and motorcycle detection, adaptive cruise control that varies speed through curves, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. An automated parking setting now monitors back-in and head-in parking maneuvers, helping spot a vehicle or pedestrian in the vehicle’s path. 

The new RX 500h F SPORT Performance model features a newly developed hybrid electric system 2.4-liter turbocharged HEV DIRECT4 with rear high output motor eAxle. A braking posture control system regulates vehicle posture during driving. The performance model also comes with large steering angle Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) for high maneuverability and high speed stability.

“We thoroughly worked on the car's fundamentals to pursue a new driving experience and design that was both captivating and rooted in functionality, aiming for a car that made driving more enjoyable and offered a more exhilarating experience on familiar drives,” said Takaaki Ohno, Lexus International new RX chief engineer.

The original RX 300 pioneered the luxury crossover segment in 1998 and in 2005, the first hybrid electric model (HEV), the RX 400h, was launched. By 2030, Lexus expects to offer a full lineup of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) all categories, and by 2035, the automaker anticipates selling 100% BEVs globally.