2023 Lexus RX 350h test drive review

When the first Lexus RX came on the scene nearly 30 years ago, it left a permanent impression. It was one of the first to do the luxury crossover thing, and it did it so well that everyone else jumped on board. With its luxury, reliability and excellent build quality, the RX has always been a hot seller. After a week of driving the latest iteration, the 2023 Lexus RX 350h, we can happily report that it’s better than ever. It's as luxurious as you would expect, but its dramatically improved drivability and technology were the real standouts. If a low-drama SUV is what you’re after, you’ll find a lot to like in the latest Lexus RX. Shop Lexus RX listings

Price and value 

The MSRP range for the 2023 Lexus RX is $48,550-$63,745. It is available in 10 trim levels, with a suite of standard features that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Lexus’ Safety System+ 3.0. Some of the major differences in trim levels are noted below. Only all-wheel-drive hybrid trims are mentioned. For a full comparison of trims, visit Lexus’s website. 

• RX 350h AWD: $50,150 See RX 350h listings

Digital latch with safe exit assist 

Standard all-wheel-drive 

36 mpg combined  

• RX 350h Premium AWD: $52,150 

Power moonroof 

Heated and ventilated front seats 

Wireless charger

• RX 350h Premium+ AWD: $54,750 

Leather-trimmed interior

14-inch touchscreen display

Thematic ambient illumination

• RX 350h Luxury AWD: $58,150 

21-inch 20-spoke alloy wheels

Semi-aniline leather-trimmed interior

Head-up display

• RX 500h F Sport Performance AWD: $62,750 See RX 500h listings

14-inch touchscreen display

Leather-trimmed interior

Thematic ambient illumination

Given Lexus’ reputation for reliability, luxury and tech, the new RX seems reasonably priced. Buyers will be happy with where their money goes, especially if there aren’t too many repairs during its lifetime. Lexus’ warranties are excellent. You get a limited warranty for four years or 50,000 miles, a powertrain warranty for six years or 70,000 miles, and an eight year, 100,000-mile warranty on the hybrid components. Lexus also offers complimentary maintenance for one year or 10,000 miles. 

Performance 

With the base hybrid powertrain, you get a 4-cylinder engine paired with three (!) electric motors that produce a combined 246 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque. It’s adequate power for this SUV and felt punchier than expected. While we wouldn’t go so far as to call the RX exciting, it finally feels capable in every situation, delivering predictable and reliable performance. 

Should you opt for one of the non-hybrid trims, or go for the top RX 500h F Sport Performance trim, more power awaits you. That top trim combines the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with two electric motors, making for 367 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Of course, all that extra power comes with a higher price tag. 

Engine 

Hybrid or not, the powertrains in the new RX represent a big step forward for Lexus in terms of refinement and engaging power delivery. You can’t go wrong here. Pick the one that fits your budget and you’ll be happy. 

Fuel efficiency 

The RX 350h is the most efficient of the new RX lineup. Our tester was rated at 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. We averaged about 32 mpg in our week of combined testing. 

Drivetrain 

The RX 350h makes good use of its continuously variable transmission. It’s a relaxed driving experience, eschewing dynamics in the name of efficiency. It won’t win over enthusiasts, but those looking for a low-drama driving experience will be satisfied. 

Acceleration and handling 

Accelerating in the RX 350h requires a bit of patience, but it’s also not as poky as you might expect. According to Lexus, it goes from 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds. We found passing on the freeway a breezy experience. Handling is likewise a relaxed experience, with Lexus favoring ease of driving over agility and sharp handling. 

Braking 

Braking felt good and natural in the RX. Lexus offers a myriad of standard braking features capable of detecting pedestrians, motorcyclists and other objects. 

Interior comfort and convenience 

The 2023 RX interior is a huge upgrade over the previous, aging generation. Stylistically and functionally, it’s an excellent place to spend time, replete with all the technology and luxurious touches Lexus is known for. The RX is now only offered in a two-row configuration. It’s a nice, modern update that includes thorough ambient lighting, open-pore wood trim and excellent faux-leather upholstery. There’s plenty of space for four adults and everyone will be comfortable. Find an RX for sale

Seats 

At first glance, the seats in the RX don’t look all that supportive. However, spend just a few minutes in them and you’ll appreciate how softly cushioned they are. They’re ideal for daily driving and even better for road trips. We tested the heating and ventilated features of the front seats and can happily report that both features work well. 

Climate control 

One of the big changes for 2023 was the updated climate controls. They are now more integrated into the infotainment screen and overall, they’re fairly easy to use. 

Cargo space and cabin storage 

Cargo space and cabin storage are what you’d expect from something this size. There’s plenty of space for all your daily errands and then some.  

Infotainment system 

The centerpiece of the new RX is undoubtedly its new infotainment screen. This touch screen is seriously impressive in its features and resolution. It’s almost too big. We can’t overstate how much of an improvement the system is over the previous generation. Of course, the stereo sounds good, and wireless Apple CarPlay is always welcome.

Exterior appearance and functionality 

Another huge update is the exterior styling. Gone (mostly) is the excessively exaggerated spindle maw of the previous generation, replaced by a more stylish and conservative front end. The proportions are more eye-pleasing this time around, too, as the hood has been elongated to display a more cab-backward design than the previous egg-shaped RX. It’s an updated, modern and luxurious appearance and we think it’s the best-looking RX yet. Colors for the RX include Eminent White Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Iridium, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Nori Green Pearl and Nightfall Mica. 

Towing capacity 

Towing is rated at 3,500 pounds, but let’s be honest — you’re not buying the RX to tow with, right?  

Wheels 

The RX 350h comes with 19-inch wheels shod with 235/60 19 all-season tires. They proved quiet in operation and did not diminish the RX’s plush ride. 

Visibility and cameras 

Visibility and cameras are excellent in the RX. It’s easy to get a clear view out the sides and rear. The 360-degree cameras are clear and sharp in their resolution, making parking even in the tightest spots a cinch. 

Safety

Lexus is all about safety, and the new RX carries on that tradition. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 brings a host of features, including: 

• Lane departure warning

• Crash mitigation

• Adaptive cruise control with lane centering

• Automated emergency braking

Awards and ratings 

The newest RX hasn’t had much time to be on the awards circuit, but this Lexus best-seller will surely make the list before too long. The 2023 RX received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest rating, a Top Safety Pick+, which isn’t surprising given Lexus’s emphasis on safety technology. Check out local RX listings

Final impression 

The latest RX is what you’ve come to expect from Lexus’s best-selling vehicle, but better in every way. The recipe, which led to massive success in the ‘90s, retains its core ingredients and improves upon the details, styling and powertrain in satisfying ways. The RX has never been about driving dynamics or thrills, and we’re grateful it retains its relaxed driving demeanor in a world where most cars try to be more aggressive. The new RX is a well-balanced package, with nice technology and a reasonable price tag. If the normal Toyota crossovers aren’t upscale enough for you, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here in the 2023 Lexus RX 350h. 

Find your Lexus RX on KSL Cars. 

FAQs 

Is the RX 350h fun to drive? 

We wouldn’t call it exciting, but it is pleasant. The engine feels punchier than its power figures would suggest and found it to be a great daily driver for all the normal errands and commuting. 

Is it good for families? 

When considering a good family vehicle, the Lexus RX isn’t one that immediately comes to mind. We could see some of the materials and furnishings not being the best for small children to abuse. While there is decent space in the backseat and in the cargo area, we’d recommend looking elsewhere for a family vehicle. 

KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.

About the author: Having owned everything from a DeLorean to an E46 BMW M3 and a Toyota Land Cruiser, Jason Bell is a lifelong car enthusiast who loves sharing his passions as a teacher, automotive journalist and social media manager. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press where he serves on the Board of Directors. Contact him at jasonbellcars@gmail.com.