Listen to MacKenzie Richter, Lexus Product Marketing chat w/ Vaughn on 360 MAG Apple/Spotify podcast about 2023 Lexus RX HERE.
360 MAGAZINE had an intimate driving commitment at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara with one of the top-selling vehicles in the Lexus fleet. Although 2023 Lexus RX pricing was not announced, exterior colors, trim and powertrains were readily available for testing. After five generations, performance, style and innovation have intermingled in the luxury of the new age with this hot stepper. All in all, we strongly believe the RX F SPORT is the heavyweight candidate for this reboot.
Design
The silhouette of the RX has been redesigned with stylish and sporty lines. To many, at first glance, it is a lean and agile approach. Ready to pounce. Suitable with a grill brooch coupled with jewel headlamps and taillights. The cabin is also marked by embossed patterns on the door panels and headrests of top-of-the-range models. Race-inspired red bucket seats with bespoke like black side panels. Ambient lighting is also available in different models in a variety of color combinations.
Technology
14-inch infotainment screen effortlessly placed on the dashboard for easy use of the driver’s control. This season, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are wireless, making it more intuitive and fluid. Wireless charging stations are larger for the next generation of phablets, in particular the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra and Z Fold4 flagships. Not forgetting, the inside has USB-C ports sprinkled throughout. Sure, you can head nod to Drake‘s Sticky with its optional Mark Levinson signature speaker set.
Performance
Larger calipers signify better braking. Rear wheel steering is a must-have, especially for parallel parking, snaking roads and u-turns. The ability to displace torque in different ratios also allows the riders to push outside of its previous capabilities. 21″ wheels in tandem with low profile Michelin tire add much needed traction for various terrains. Offered power plants are as follows: RX350 has a 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged pushing 275 HP; RX350h possess a 2.4L 4-cylinder with AWD as well as CVT produces 246 HP and RX500h F SPORT matches electric alongside of 2.4L turbocharged to produce 367 HP. Adaptive cruise controls, lane departure paired with civilian detection – excellent for the increase of low-stanched fat tire e-bikes in cities. Just because they have pedals, doesn’t mean they can’t excel beyond 50+ mph.
In short, the Lexus RX cocoon has become a magnificent butterfly with the RX500 F SPORT variant. It literally floats, moves easily within tight spaces, and is sure to cause a stir with transcultural youth. Lastly, a two-row, five-seater SUV with muscles and brains that can survive a hectic Gen Z household.
Watch me drive HERE.
Article + Photo: Vaughn Lowery
