2023 Lexus RX powertrains detailed for Australia

UPDATE: New 2023 Lexus RX driven

Following its global unveiling, we've now driven the new-generation Lexus RX. Get the full story at the link below.

The story to here

The new 2023 Lexus RX premium large SUV will arrive in Australia early next year with a choice of three key variants, consisting of a single turbocharged petrol version and a choice of two hybrids – a first for the model.

Missing from the all-new fifth-generation RX is the entry-level 300 as well as the most potent V6 versions of the previous range, however, Lexus has substituted the absentees with more powerful and efficient powertrains across the range.

The most accessible point of the line-up is now represented by the 350 with a choice of petrol-only RX 350 or RX 350h mild hybrid, while the halo of the range is a new RX 500h, which is offered only in a newly introduced F-Sport Performance grade.

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All 2023 Lexus RX versions will be available exclusively with all-wheel drive and automatic transmissions, except the RX 350h, which will be offered in a choice of AWD or front-wheel drive.

Exact timing for a fourth variant is yet to be confirmed, but Lexus will also introduce a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) to the range after the 2023 model’s arrival with the RX 450h – the first PHEV RX and only the second offered in the Australian Lexus line-up.

Watch this space for more details closer to the RX 450h’s arrival.

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Lexus RX 500h

With 273kW and 551Nm, the new RX 500h is the most powerful petrol-electric hybrid yet offered by Lexus, necessitating the creation of the F-Sport Performance grade, and the variant introduces a host of new technology for the brand.

Firstly, with a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder under its bonnet, the 500h is the first Lexus to combine hybrid electric with a forced-induction engine. Secondly, its eAxle rear electric motor is the largest yet used and is the first to be given its own controller – separate to the front axle electrics.

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2023 Lexus RX 500h

The decision to make the rear motor independent of the front allows greater versatility of its Direct4 all-wheel drive transmission. Under hard acceleration, the rear motor can apply exactly the right amount of torque to prevent the tail squatting, while under hard braking, strong regenerative braking prevents excessive nose dive.

Finally, the independent rear motor also allows more precise distribution of power and torque from front to rear, improving traction on all surfaces including wet roads or unsealed trails.

Unlike previous Lexus all-wheel drive systems, which had a single motor on the rear axle and a pair at the front, the 500h has just one motor up-front to allow space for the extra ancillaries such as turbo plumbing and intercooler – but it too has been beefed up to earn its F-Sport Performance badge.

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Lexus claims the new flagship of the range will crack the 0-100km/h benchmark in 5.9 seconds, which is significantly faster than either the previous petrol-only V6 350 or hybrid V6 450h but, despite its higher performance, torque and power, uses less fuel.

A direct comparison is not possible however. Lexus claimed the previous V6 hybrids managed as much as 5.7L/100km but new more realistic WLTP testing positions the 500h fuel consumption at about 8.2L/100km.

The F-Sport Performance also gets enhanced braking and handling as part of the package with adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steering, 400mm brake rotors and six-piston calipers at the front, and 21-inch wheels included in the price.

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2023 Lexus RX 500h

Lexus RX 350

Beneath it in the range, the RX 350 uses the same 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol minus the electrified elements. It is also all-wheel drive but sends power to the rear wheels through a more conventional driveshaft and differential.

It produces peak power and torque of 205kW and 430Nm, can get to 100km/h from standstill in 7.2s and uses about 8.8L/100km.

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2023 Lexus RX 350

Lexus RX 350h

Rounding out the range is the RX 350h which pairs a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol to the company’s more traditional twin-motor front axle with continuously variable transmission and a single motor on the rear axle in the case of the AWD version.

Its maximum system output is 180kW and 316Nm – enough to do the 0-100km/h dash in 7.4s – while Lexus claims a combined fuel consumption of between 6.4L/100km and 6.7L/100km is possible.

Beyond confirmation that the 500h will only be available in exclusive new F-Sport Performance grade, Lexus is not detailing the specification level of the other variants at this stage – although it’s expected that the Luxury, F-Sport and Sport Luxury options of the previous range will continue and feature throughout.

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2023 Lexus RX 350h

Transmissions: CVT and torque converters

As for transmissions, the 350h continues on with Lexus’s unique continuously variable transmission, while the range-topping 500h hybrid and 350 are offered with a torque-converter automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

In the case of the 500h, it gets six speeds while the 350h has eight.

Architecture and dimensions

Regardless of the variant, all versions of the fifth-gen RX now roll on the new GA-K platform (the same as Toyota’s TNGA-K) bringing numerous significant changes.

With the switch to the more advanced architecture, the RX has lost between 40kg and 90kg depending on the variant and while, its overall length and height of 4890mm and 1695mm are unchanged, it is 25mm wider and has a 60mm longer wheelbase.

The dimensional changes, including a 45mm wider rear track, have increased dynamic stability and interior space, while lending a more purposeful stance to the RX’s posture, says Lexus.

Rear storage space is not impacted by choosing a hybrid RX, with all 2023 Lexus RX versions offering the same 1091-litre boot volume, and all offer space for five adults.

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2023 Lexus RX: The basics

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With the introduction of the fifth-generation RX, a seven-seater is not being offered.

Technology

Inside, the RX is equipped with a 9.8-inch touchscreen as standard, while higher-grade versions get a 14-inch screen, although both display sizes offer the same features. Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay is supported along with wireless and USB-C cable charging.

The driver’s instruments are also digital, supplemented by a colour head-up display, while electric front seat adjustment, heating and ventilation is expected to be standard across the range.

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Lexus Australia chief executive John Papas said the fifth-generation RX would continue to offer the luxury and value that Australians had come to expect, while bringing new levels of refinement to the model.

“RX is synonymous with Lexus in Australia. It has helped forge the Lexus brand here, pioneering the luxury SUV concept and winning customers with its refined luxury and thoughtful design.

“The all-new RX builds on the model’s long-standing qualities but now encapsulates it in a thoroughly modern and more sporting package that still delivers high on comfort and elegance.

“The Lexus human-centred ‘Tazuna’ concept builds the interior around the occupants with considered design touches to enhance the experience for driver and passengers alike. The RX is not only a great car to drive, but a great car to ride in.”

2023 Lexus RX pricing for Australia still to come

Pricing is also not being discussed at this stage, but given the significant addition of technology, the general cost of the new model is expected to rise over the existing line-up, which starts at $73,136 and tops out at $112,460.