Four out of 10 Lexus marketed in the United States are RX. It’s true, the LSit will be the most iconic model of the brand, but in terms of sales, the indisputable pillar is the RX, a model that recently debuted its fifth generation worldwide, which is already on sale in Mexico.
To learn about this model we went to the official presentation held in Jalisco. And yes, we were able to drive the 2023 Lexus RX, more specifically in the RX350 version for just over 80 kilometers on a route that started from Guadalajara towards Jalisco. It is true, the coexistence was brief but it allowed us to get a clear idea of what this product offers. Let’s know all the details:
Lexus RX 2023, first impressions
The Lexus RX is a vehicle with an image that is more dynamic than elegant. Gone are the days when the brand was excessively conservative in the exterior lines. The absence of chrome stands out and all our attention is focused on the X-pattern grille that blends into the body. At the back, the light bar that crosses the width of the vehicle gives it a futuristic air.
Inside, we are greeted by a spacious cabin considering that the dimensions are 4.89 meters long, while the total width is 1.92 meters. Four passengers traveled comfortably with everything and luggage.
A 14-inch touch screen stands out, which gives access to some smartphone applications and settings through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, via wireless. It also has a wireless charger for smartphones and Dynamic Voice Recognition, to access model settings using just your voice.
As for materials, care is noted and there are no surfaces that are left to duty. The feeling is slightly below, for example, a Mercedes-Benz, but very much in tune with what is seen in a Cadillac and even Audi. The door handles are specially designed to keep them hidden from view.
2023 Lexus RX, first impressions, driving
This model is built on the GA-K platformwhich allows the new RX 2023 lose 90 kilograms than its predecessor, while offering greater torsional rigidity, a lower center of gravity -15mm- and revised independent rear suspension geometry.
For the Lexus RX there are different versions and engines. In the test we drove the RX350 version which stands out for its turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 273 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, which is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Traction is AWD.
Throttle response is highly effective and ride quality is surprisingly comfortable.. It’s like riding in a Grand Tourer. For a short time and with the road completely clear we stepped on the accelerator to the fullest, reaching a maximum of up to 200 km/h and the truth is that inside it felt as if we were traveling at no more than 120 km/h. Obviously, after knowing its dynamic capacity, we continue to drive with moderation.
The other versions are RX350h with a 2.5 L inline 4 engine. and the same synchronous electric motor; this is a guarantee of quality while driving, which also has the potential of the 247 hp hybrid system, CVT box with 6 simulated gears and AWD traction.
The pinnacle falls on RX 500h F-SPORTwith a 2.4 L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and another synchronous electric motor. The full potential of this hybrid system is 366 hp. The traction is AWD and it has a 6-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of safety, standard features elements such as:
- 10 airbags
- 360º vision
- Reverse camera
- blind spot monitor
- tire pressure monitor
- autonomous emergency brake
- lane keep assist
- blind spot monitor
- adaptive cruise control
- cross traffic alert
From the RX350h version is added:
- parking attendant
- Digital rear view mirror with camera
Lexus RX 2023, first impressions, prices, versions and rivals
- Lexus RX 350 $1,249,900 pesos
- Lexus RX 350h $1,369,900 pesos
- Lexus RX 500h F-Sport $1,549,900 pesos
The Lexus RX 2023 is a model that is positioned right in the middle of what would be the premium models of the C and D segment. This means that among its rivals are models like lincoln nautilus either Cadillac XT5. We could also add to the input versions of jeep grand cherokee.
