Hybrid tech all the way for popular Lexus RX
Jul 12, 2023
Headlined by the performance-themed RX 500h F Sport, the new-look Lexus RX line-up is set to build on the sales success the mid-size SUV has enjoyed in the New Zealand market for some time.
A mainstay of Lexus’ model offering in the Kiwi market, the popular mid-size RX SUV represents 30% of total Lexus sales and celebrates 20 years in the local market this year. Needless to say, the arrival of a refreshed RX is a big deal for the Japanese luxury carmaker.
Updates to the RX line-up include refreshed engineering and technology feature sets, and exterior and interior design detailing.
The fifth generation of the luxury mid-sizer is also now only available with a hybrid powertrain. Seventeen years after the first hybrid powered RX arrived on the market (the 2006 RX 400h), Lexus New Zealand has eliminated any pure petrol options.
Two hybrid powertrains make up the range. The RX 350h is powered by a 184kW 2.5-litre electrified four-cylinder paired with an e-CVT transmission, while the top shelf RX 500h (available in the Kiwi market with performance-themed F Sport trim) gets a similarly electrified 273kW 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic: a first for Lexus combining a turbo with a hybrid powertrain.
As to be expected, even the start-point of the RX model offering receives plenty of premium specification as standard.
The range commences with the $120,900 RX 350h in Premium trim, which includes Lexus’ new, digital interior with two screens, synthetic leather seats, leather steering wheel, and a comprehensive active safety suite.
The $131,900 RX 350h Limited features such highlights as semi-aniline leather accented seats, an impressive 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and 21-inch alloys. A special Enhancement Pack, which includes a digital rear vision mirror, full self-parking, and a panoramic roof, can also be added to this grade RX.
At the top of the range is the RX 500h F Sport Performance ($142,900). Beyond the uprated turbocharged hybrid powerplant, the RX 500 F Sport also gets the full swathe of the model line’s technology and safety spec, as well as Lexus’ new responsive Direct4 all-wheel drive system, which optimised drive force between the front and rear wheels for more tractability. A rear-wheel steering system is also present on the top RX model, designed to help with ‘garage gear’ manoeuvrability in tight spaces, and conversely improved stability at higher speeds on the open road.
The refreshed Lexus RX line-up is available now to view at Lexus of Auckland City.
