Car Buyer Labs

Car Buying Advice, Tips, and Reviews

A blue Lexus RX350 is shown parked on a city road.

The New Lexus RX: Drive In This Dreamy SUV

A car ride can be many things: a quiet space in which to commute to various meetings, errands, and social events, a leisurely drive while enjoying the latest episode of your favorite podcast or the next chapter of an audiobook, a luxurious experience, even as you navigate through traffic, and more. You spend quite a bit of time inside a vehicle, and though the destinations and purposes may vary, how you travel matters at the end of the day. Instead of driving a plain, serviceable vehicle, why not opt for a sleek, stylish car with luxury features? That is Lexus’s new RX for you: A dreamy SUV with all the premium features you want, with enough options to customize the Lexus RX to your heart’s desire, including a hybrid powertrain option.

When you look for a Lexus RX for sale, you will notice what a difference in care and quality can make – the styling, features, and mechanics. The road feels like a ribbon, slowly unfurling toward your destination. The hushed interior of the RX, paired with the smoothest ride, turns what once had been dull and tedious into a sacred space designed especially for you.

The black interior and dash of a 2023 Lexus RX for sale is shown.

Fuel Efficiency

The Lexus RX is extravagant and efficient, a rare combination appealing to the connoisseur. An elegant framework and nimble mechanics offer a ride unlike any other, and along with that unique, relaxed feel comes a fuel efficiency that might surprise you due to its impressive size. The RX is classified as a mid-size SUV, perfect for the small family or solo individual. Multiple powertrains offer a range of efficiency, from the gas-powered RX350 to the RX F Sport, a hybrid with an electrified powertrain capable of producing 366 hp.

If you choose the gas-fueled route, your Lexus RX will sit incredibly comfortably at 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most efficient mid-size SUVs with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive will lower that a bit, but if you decide instead that you want to try out one of the hybrid options, the RX500 is rated at 28 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, while the RX350h is rated at 37 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway. If you enjoy spending time in your vehicle but want something more efficient, the Lexus RX has what you need to ensure a lovely drive with fewer fueling stops.

Environmentally Friendly

Aside from being incredibly fuel efficient, the Lexus RX hybrids are more environmentally friendly due to the use of electricity, which results in the production of fewer emissions. You have seen what damage a vehicle can do when there is nothing environmentally friendly about it: smoke pouring from the exhaust pipes, constant stops for refueling, rising temperatures on the road, and other such unpleasant effects. Automotive companies are beginning to understand the consequences of relying on harmful systems, which has created a new market for environmentally conscious drivers: hybrid and electric vehicles.

Due to the newness of the venture, there may not be multiple charging stations in one area, or even if there are, they may need the correct plug for a specific vehicle. It is one of the most important things to consider. Will you be able to charge your car at home, or will you need to locate a public charging station? If you prefer to stay out and walk around town, the public charging station will do nicely, as long as it is near your favorite shops, restaurants, and other venues. If you prefer to leave the city and relax at home, then the at-home charging option would be best. And, of course, you can go with a gas-fueled powertrain, which is still quite efficient and more environmentally friendly than Lexus’ competition. There is no right or wrong answer here – simply choose which powertrain will bring you the most satisfaction.

Comfort & Convenience

Lexus knows what drivers want: comfort, luxury, and convenience, which is why the Lexus RX interior is lush with plenty of hi-tech features and a stylish, convenient layout. The Lexus RX F Sport is upholstered with black trim and plush seating, while the RX350 is decorated with open-pore wood trim and textured fabric on some of the upper door panels. Ambient lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere. Leather upholstery is also available for those who enjoy the luxurious experience of sinking into a premium leather seat.

A 9.8” infotainment center comes standard in some of the lower trim levels, but a 14” infotainment center can be had if desired. The infotainment center is an excellent hub, capable of connection to your phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and if you decide to spoil yourself, you can request the installation of the Mark Levinson PurePlay Surround Sound stereo system, perfect for those romantic date nights, solo driving trips, and impromptu day trips with the family. You can also add a color Heads-Up Digital Display, a 10” display that projects onto your windshield so that you can keep your eyes on the road while ensuring everything is in perfect working order.

Pros & Cons of Gas Vs. Hybrid

While there are some critical differences between the gas-powered RX350 and the RX350h in terms of power source, in the end, they are similar enough in other areas that you will not have to compromise luxury for being environmentally friendly. As previously stated, if you enjoy being in the city and there are plenty of public charging stations that can charge your Lexus RX, then the hybrid is the best choice for you. The hybrid model tends to keep its motor and engine in good shape, as neither is being used full-time. If it is convenient, go for the hybrid model, but if you know there are no good public charging stations, and you have doubts about whether or not you’ll be able to charge at home, then the gas-powered powertrain is the better option.

You can also choose your power level, which becomes a priority if you drive through particularly hilly or mountainous areas. If you do not need much power, the smaller powertrain with less hp might be better suited to your lifestyle. To reiterate, there is no right or wrong answer here. You have plenty of options available, so why not take advantage and pick out what works best for you?

The white and black rear seat interior of a 2023 Lexus RX is shown.

Take Your RX With A Spoonful of Sugar

You can have a sleek, luxurious, efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicle with plenty of hi-tech and comfort features to appreciate. Luxury can be a rare commodity, so take it where you can find it and allow yourself to luxuriate in the Lexus RX. Whether the Lexus RX F Sport has caught your eye or you are mulling over the idea of the Lexus RX 350h, allow that sweet sensation to sink in. You do not have to compromise on your convictions or your comfort. You get to have both with the Lexus RX. Doesn’t that sound delightful?

The Lexus RX is a dream of a vehicle – sweet as sun-ripened grapes, with a subtle sophistication that only a true enthusiast can appreciate. Other cars may all look the same and have limited options, but you no longer have to succumb to that sad fate. You deserve better. Take your RX and relish the sweetness of a luxurious experience. The Lexus RX is waiting for you – step into your wildest dreams and revel in its smooth contours, soft lighting, and premium features. You will never be the same.