Full expert breakdown
Buying a new car is a big decision. You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, how much it will cost to maintain each month, what latest features it offers, and how good the company service is. Today, we are going to dive deep into a luxury SUV that ticks many of these boxes for Indian buyers: the all-new Lexus RX. Is it the right premium SUV for your garage? Let us find out.
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
The Lexus RX comes with advanced hybrid powertrain options in India, offering a blend of power and efficiency.
- Lexus RX 350h: Features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor. It delivers a combined output of around 245 horsepower. Power goes to all four wheels through an eCVT automatic transmission. This setup focuses on smooth, refined performance and excellent fuel economy for a luxury SUV.
- Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance: For those who want more thrill, this version combines a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a strong hybrid system. It produces a higher combined output of about 366 horsepower. It uses a 6-speed automatic gearbox and Lexus innovative DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system for dynamic handling.
Design Overview
The new Lexus RX truly stands out with its bold and elegant design.
- Exterior: The outside of the Lexus RX shows a sharp evolution of the Lexus design language. It features the signature spindle grille, now more integrated into the body, creating a seamless look. Sleek LED headlights and taillights give it a modern, aggressive stance. The clean lines and flowing silhouette make it look sophisticated and aerodynamic. You also get stylish alloy wheel designs that complete the premium look.
- Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted by a cabin that spells luxury and advanced technology. The interior follows Lexus Tazuna cockpit concept, meaning everything is designed around the driver for intuitive control. High-quality materials like soft-touch surfaces, fine leather, and metallic accents are used throughout. The large central infotainment screen is the focal point, complemented by a digital instrument cluster. Comfortable seating, ample space, and ambient lighting create a very inviting atmosphere for all passengers.
Key Features
The Lexus RX is packed with features to make every drive enjoyable and convenient.
- Large 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration
- Panoramic sunroof that lets in plenty of light
- 360-degree panoramic view monitor for easy parking and maneuvering
- Wireless phone charging pad
- Multi-zone automatic climate control for individual comfort
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Head-up display projecting key information onto the windshield
- Premium audio system options
- Digital instrument cluster
What is the Ground Clearance of Lexus RX
The Lexus RX offers a practical ground clearance of approximately 185 mm. This is sufficient for tackling most Indian road conditions and speed breakers with confidence, providing a good balance between a comfortable ride and capability.
What is the Boot Space of Lexus RX
The Lexus RX provides a generous boot space of about 612 litres. This ample cargo room is perfect for family trips, airport runs, or carrying golf bags, making it a very versatile luxury SUV.
What is the Dimensions of Lexus RX
Here are the approximate dimensions of the Lexus RX:
- Length: 4890 mm
- Width: 1920 mm
- Height: 1695 mm
- Wheelbase: 2850 mm
These dimensions highlight its commanding road presence while ensuring a spacious and comfortable cabin.
Powertrain Options
As mentioned earlier, the Lexus RX in India is exclusively available with strong hybrid powertrains.
- RX 350h: A focus on efficiency and refined cruising.
- RX 500h F Sport Performance: A focus on exhilarating performance and dynamic driving.
Both options offer the benefits of hybrid technology: lower emissions, better fuel economy compared to traditional petrol engines, and instant torque delivery from the electric motors.
Safety Features
Lexus places a very high emphasis on safety, and the RX is a prime example. It comes equipped with the advanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite.
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Tracing Assist
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Automatic High Beam
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- 10 airbags for comprehensive occupant protection
- Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution EBD
- Vehicle Stability Control VSC
- Traction Control System TCS
- Hill-start Assist Control
NCAP Rating Table
| NCAP Rating Body | Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Euro NCAP | 5 Stars | Tested in 2022, the Lexus RX achieved an excellent 5-star safety rating, performing strongly in adult occupant, child occupant, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist categories. |
| Bharat NCAP | Not Tested | As a premium imported vehicle, the Lexus RX has not been tested by Bharat NCAP at the time of writing. |
Rivals of Lexus RX
In the competitive luxury SUV segment, the Lexus RX goes head-to-head with some formidable opponents.
- BMW X5
- Mercedes-Benz GLE
- Audi Q7
- Volvo XC90
- Porsche Cayenne (entry-level variants)
- Land Rover Discovery
How is the Car? Pros & Cons
Pros
- Refined Hybrid Powertrains: Both the RX 350h and RX 500h offer smooth, quiet operation and impressive fuel efficiency for their class, along with strong performance.
- Luxurious and High-Quality Interior: The cabin is beautifully crafted with premium materials and excellent fit and finish, providing a truly opulent experience.
- Advanced Safety Features: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 offers comprehensive active and passive safety for peace of mind.
- Comfortable Ride Quality: The RX is tuned for comfort, effortlessly soaking up road imperfections, making it ideal for long journeys.
- Lexus Reliability and Service: Lexus is known for its legendary reliability and exceptional customer service experience in India.
- Feature-Rich: It comes loaded with modern tech and convenience features as standard.
- Distinctive Design: Its bold styling makes it stand out from the crowd of European rivals.
Cons
- Premium Pricing: Being a CBU Completely Built Unit import, the Lexus RX comes with a premium price tag, placing it at the higher end of its segment.
- No Diesel Engine Option: For buyers still preferring diesel for long-distance driving and fuel economy, the RX only offers hybrid petrol options.
- Not the Sportiest Handler: While the RX 500h is sporty, the RX 350h prioritises comfort over outright dynamic agility compared to some German rivals.
- Limited Dealership Network: Compared to mainstream brands, Lexus has a smaller but growing dealership footprint in India.
- Maintenance Costs: While reliable, parts and service for a premium imported hybrid SUV can be on the higher side.
Conclusion
The new Lexus RX emerges as a compelling choice for luxury SUV buyers in India. It offers a unique blend of sophisticated design, advanced hybrid technology, a supremely comfortable and feature-rich cabin, and the peace of mind that comes with Lexus legendary reliability and safety. If your priorities include a refined driving experience, top-tier comfort, cutting-edge safety features, and a desire to stand out with a distinctive luxury SUV that is also conscious about the environment with its hybrid powertrains, the Lexus RX should definitely be on your test drive list. While it comes at a premium, its overall package makes it a strong contender against its European rivals, offering a truly Japanese take on luxury motoring. Make sure to consider your driving needs, budget, and preference for hybrid power before making your final decision.
