This one is the BEST Lexus RX model! (Lexus RX 350h Luxury 2023 Review)

Tom reviews the 2023 Lexus RX, a new-gen luxury SUV that comes in two hybrid engines and one turbo petrol. Includes fuel economy and price.
The Lexus RX competes with the Audi Q5 and Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes GLE and Genesis GV70 and GV80.
This is an all-new RX generation with a choice of RX350h hybrid, RX350 turbo and RX500h turbo-hybrid engines.
The two specs we recommend are:
1. The RX350h Luxury with enhancement pack seen in this video
2. The RX500h F Sport Performance turbo-hybrid
As always, we don’t accept advertising from car manufacturers, and we’re powered by Budget Direct - so this is an independent, honest review of the Lexus RX.
Subscribe now! kzbin.info...
Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
0:50 - Range & Charging
2:10 - Battery Warranty
2:25 - Boot Space
3:05 - Interior
5:35 - Back Seats
6:47 - Driving
13:19 - Verdict
More Lexus content: www.chasingcars.com.au/lexus/
More RX content: www.chasingcars.com.au/lexus/rx/
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Chasing Cars is Australia's most independent source of new car reviews, car industry news, comparisons and car guides. We give you a critical look at every new car you should consider!

[@sohailqureshi22]

Love your reviews. Was waiting for this for a long time. 👍🏻

[@brandonho6343]

Awesome review, super detailed, thank you for the great content.

[@erin4938]

I went into Lexus to test drive the RZ450e I ended up falling in love with this one. Waiting for the plug in to be released and I’m ordering one! Amazing upgrade from the old RX. We loved it.

[@GEE819]

Thanks for the wonderful review again. Can you please do a review on the new ux Lexus luxury please .

[@stuartkennedy7362]

Great review, Tom! Had thought I'd go for the RZ450 but you've given me some more to think about. Keep up the good work!

[@chasingcars]

Glad I could help!

[@lasithamalalasekara1445]

Wow ,great review

[@chasingcars]

Thanks!

[@alexandergoldman]

Only 1 question: I understand that if you push the door handle twice, it will mechanically open, which makes sense. HOWEVER, if one is in an accident and passengers not able to open the doors and there is no power, can the doors be opened by emergency crews?! If not, this is incredibly dangerous and a serious oversight..

[@warrenkinnear8177]

This vehicle is always compared to an X5 or GLE, but is priced, at least in South Africa, against X3 and GLC equivalents. On that basis, it’s a much better al round SUV.

[@chasingcars]

Well, it’s not priced that way in Australia. It sits between X3 and X5 in both price and size.

[@user-sg6zi6vf9q]

تا

[@davidmargolis95]

I think it’s a tad smaller than the X5 and GLE and bigger than the X3 and GLC models, yet costs cheaper than the lesser Germans. Lexus holds great resell value and super reliable. I have a 2019 RAM Rebel right now but I’m waiting on the 2024 GX Overtrail

[@user-vm4fv6oy9u]

I’m in America and have been watching all the videos/reviews of the RX350h I can find before I pick up mine this weekend. The color you reviewed is called Nori Green Pearl here, and I think it’s gorgeous, esp in the bright sun. It was a close second to the Matador Mica Red I chose. It may be a bit of a learning curve since I drive with a lead foot and was only getting about 16 mpg in my Lexus IS350. I am looking forward to getting close to double that in my new RX. In America, we get a a spare tire and can get the Mark Levenson system as an option on many trim levels. I loved the 500h, but for the $, and sake of comfort I wanted something quieter and as cushy as possible. I hope I am happy with this one! Thanks for your opinions on the vehicle….

[@czekhoongtan7857]

Ordered an RX350h with enhancement pack BEFORE watching this review. Glad I did it!

[@andrewcattalini2098]

Thanks Tom very good review. I have a question regarding the adaptive variable suspension that is found in the 350h sports luxury model. How does this stack up on Australian roads compared to the lux model suspension?

[@huckietam6746]

Great review. Please review the RX500h soon. I would very much like to hear your opinion on the 4 wheel steering impact on this car. Also I watch from the US KOL review that this car has over the top intrusive warning if you don't drive in good manners. And then the German KOL review that the front hood shakes at high speed at their unlimited speed highway. Please comment on that at well. I am in the waiting list on this 500h and I am deciding if I should proceed.

[@grisa12345]

I’m in the US and I own a 500h. The issues you’ve mentioned are not concerns at all. The safety suite can easily be modified and turned off as you would like. No hood flutter. Drives amazing, tight yet still luxurious. ML sound system is great. Space is good, seats are exceptional.

[@chat2stephen]

Another great review!. In short, the RX350H EP2 is the one to get, and let's not forget the Khaki Metal (green) colour with Hazel interior :). SOLD!.

[@chasingcars]

*RX350h Luxury + EP. In my opinion the SL+EP2 is a bit crazily priced.

[@chat2stephen]

@@chasingcars Sure is. Per your review, I can go without the ML audio to save $20K. The deal breaker for me is the HUD which is standard on the 350H Luxury + EP2 ($5500).

[@daweigo6851]

Kruger a lot bigger.?

[@chriswu3176]

Hi tom, same drivetrain and platform etc with the kluger, I know it’s the luxury version of its Toyota sibling but you you reckon the extra price is worth the extra luxury compared to the kluger? Great video as always

[@k.w5804]

I liked the fact you brought up the Mark Levinson situation. I hope they could leave it as an option. In Canada, only the top trim has it. I ordered one trim below that and didn't have it. I assumed though, as I never order top trim or fully spec'ed out vehicle..

[@garyradley5694]

Bridgestone tyres are always noisy. Bought a Liberty with Potenza tyres a few years ago and took it straight to Tyrepower after picking it up for some Kumho tyres. Totally transformed the car.

[@sameerpurohit3385]

An interesting review for an interesting car. Would you consider the Sports Luxury as a family car or is the price too high for the benefits of the car? I am looking at changing from my XC60 and unsure whether to move brands to Lexus or continue with XC90.

[@csguak]

Gotta pay to play. Too many people with loads of $$$ even in this economy. The target audience is definitely for Lexus owners

[@parveshpoeran8036]

straight love from the Netherlands. Is air suspension more comfortable compared to what Lexus brings to the tables?

[@james0321]

I've tried both and I find Lexus to be a smoother ride

[@richardluong2011]

Been looking online at colours available in Aust. Any reason why we don't get meteor gray (nebula grey pearl in America)? That colour was available on previous gen NX here

[@richardluong2011]

Maybe its Sonic Chrome?

[@chasingcars]

Yep it's sonic chrome

[@richieduck67]

Love the copper colour

[@petergazarek9466]

❤👍🏻 PERFECT SUV

[@ANDY880130]

This hybrid system is VERY noisy when you push the paddle hard . the old V6 engine kluger, which I am currently driving , is silky smooth in any condition !

[@jamesalmond.155]

First of all it is pedal, a paddle is what you use to row up stream. Secondly the hybrid is made to be great on fuel not to be driven with full arm swing on the paddles. if you would like to go full swing then buy the RX500h. Thanks ANDY880130

[@lindyloulie80]

Sorry, but I was VERY disappointed by Lexus’ decision to drop the 6 cylinder normally aspirated engine. If the ‘23 Lexus RX models had offered a 6 cylinder engine as an option I would have gone for it, but having experienced the redesigned 2022 NX 450H+ PHEV, I HATED the whining of the 4 cylinder engine when driving on a long mountain pass which I frequently traverse. It gave me the impression that the poor little engine was crying its heart out which, in turn, made me wonder about the longevity of that engine. I actually love the last of the 6 cylinder RX hybrid models available - the 2022 RX450H. C’mon Lexus! Give us the newly redesigned RX with a 6 cylinder engine option! THEN you will have the best RX ever.

[@Eatshhhushi]

I agree 💯. The new 4 cylinder with turbocharger was a mistake. I was in the new 2023/2024 RX 350 and the engine is working hard. There was no refinement in the Lexus old way! Thisjis another reason I bought the last generation 2023 Lexus GX 460. Ah, the smooth V8 that was over engineered with plenty of HP.

[@richardluong2011]

I own a 2nd gen RX sports luxury with 18 inch wheels and the comfory is amazing. What's lowest size tyre available on the new Rx? Seems like at least 20 inches, does it sacrifice comfort on our bumpy Syd roads? :D

[@chasingcars]

19s as on the green car

[@richardluong2011]

@@chasingcars would love all sports luxury options but downgrade the wheels to 19 inches :)

[@richardluong2011]

That would "Experience Amazing!"

[@micheltran7115]

I am waiting for my 2023 RX. It comes with 235/50/21 but I will buy an extra set of 235/60/19.

[@richardluong2011]

@@micheltran7115 That's a great idea

[@ianteh20]

I wonder how this will compare with the Mazda CX 90. With in-line 6 sending power to the rear, the CX 90 sounds like it will be fun and Mazda hasn't been too shabby in its handling either. Maybe just a stretch to see Mazda in the same class as the Lexus, but brand snob aside, should I stick with the RX or look at the CX90?

[@lightshunshine3861]

cx-90 is the rival of hyubdai palisade, kia telluride, nissan patfinder and toyota highlander, rx seris is the reval of x5, gle and s6

[@huckietam6746]

@@lightshunshine3861 CX90 seems to be a very big car, bigger than RX. Probably in the same league as the newly announced Grand Highlander. (maybe call Grand Kluger in Aus). The top trim probably will be over 100K as well. If it has 4 wheel steering, I may also consider that.

[@MrTonilica]

I will stick with our v6 engine, RX450H, 2022 F-sport takumi. No thank you, I will leave it the honour of 4 cylinders engine with turbo for other customers. Very disappointed about skipping v6 engine, in my opinion it is a big mistake.

[@rosstuck3927]

In fact, I have just called Southport Lexus today to buy a new RX 350 Sports Luxury. My first Lexus was an LS 400 in 1989

[@johnjohnjohn353]

Hi Tom, this Lexus vs the new CX60, which one would you prefer? You reckon Cx60 comes close to this Lexus?

[@chasingcars]

I can’t say, because the only CX-60 I have been able to drive was a preproduction plug-in hybrid in left-hand drive, which was pretty rough around the edges. I have a feeling that the Mazda is gonna drive really well with the straight six petrol or diesel, but let’s wait until we can do a proper comparison.

[@johnjohnjohn353]

@@chasingcars Thanks for that Tom! Totally makes sense. Some of the cx60 international reviews I’ve seen on the PHEV and diesel seem to indicate that it needs some further refinement. Hoping the inline petrol will be a real Mazda.🤞🤞

[@simonchoi973]

Just noticed that it has no spare wheel? Is this not a concern?

[@bradleybprentice1497]

You may have converted me to possibly consider a Lexus product. Great review. Have you received many comments about the Budget Direct marketing inserts? It just doesn't suit the style of your reviews. Overproduced and theme music is weak. Just my opinion.

[@dennisjohnstone4739]

Another great review Tom. Like the car,but no spare wheel is a deal breaker for me. Why manufacturers are increasingly adopting this practice that's entirely unsuitable for this country once you're away from urban areas. Tyre side wall damage renders the tyre unrepairable with a can of tyre inflater rendering the car immobile.

[@RLS2228]

350 has a spare

[@james0321]

​​@@RLS2228 The 350h does NOT come with a spare. I checked at the dealership today. So I think the 350 does (as per your comment), the 350h does not, and the 500h does. Lexus are all over the place here!

[@RLS2228]

@@james0321 correct. No spare in Japan and Australia but a spare in 350h in the US (according to reviews). I don't get why, if they can do it in the US, they don't do it in Australia. One of the reasons why I went with a 350 after test driving that and the 350h

[@pipstar7015]

Good review...however there is a typo when transmission is shown it is showing 1-transmission ...is it 10-transmission? please check and correct it.

[@chasingcars]

No error. It’s a planetary gear set with one variable ‘speed’

[@kodessa]

That rose gold(?) colour is hawt!

[@chasingcars]

It’s beguiling

[@daweigo6851]

The lacknof spare rules out some regional buyers

[@sophaman9193]

Thanks for sharing your video RX model very popular in North America even Mercedes. BMW and audi not even come close to the RX from lexus and i don't know in Australia do they have the toyota highlander? Do you watch a few days ago in Chicago auto show do you see the grand highlander is very roomy for 7 adults and very powerful call hybrid max 362 horsepowers 400 feet pounds of TORQUE . And also i owned a 2022 toyota venza hybrid limited I love it good on gas lexus like interior in Japan and Malaysia call the harrier. Ok take care bye from milton Ontario Canada 🇨🇦

[@huckietam6746]

I watch that as well. Unfortunately Aus always get their new model at least 12 months later than the rest of the world.

[@mervinprone]

I don’t see how the slowest RX could possibly be the best one. As soon as I learned about a performance RX I knew that’s the one I’d want and I haven’t change my mind. If they insist on putting in a ridiculous 4 cylinder engine, then I want it turbocharged and electrified. It also stops in 102 feet from 60 mph and perhaps the most important of all, the RX500h has an actual shiftable transmission. Six gears.

[@grisa12345]

As an owner of a 500h I wonder why you say the 4 cylinder is ridiculous. Driving it, you won’t ever be able to tell what engine is under the hood. It’s an immensely complicated and effective (very quick) synergy of ICE and EV, and because it’s a Lexus, it will be reliable.

[@richardluong2011]

Also, any idea on wait time for new RX350h? Hopefully not 2+ years. One of our friends ordered new NX hybrid and advised 2 yrs

[@chasingcars]

Only 3-6 months on RX350h right now

[@richardluong2011]

@@chasingcars Wow, short wait to experience amazing!

[@jeremyjin3448]

Really? My salesperson said if you order now, it will be delivered July 2024.

[@dawnl4376]

I live in Canada. Ordered my Nebula grey RX 350h Executive trim. It is arriving the end of this month May 2023. We do have a spare tire in Canada. Can’t wait to receive it. First time Lexus owner.

[@realjohnboxall]

Thank you for being honest by calling vinyl seats ... vinyl seats.

[@chasingcars]

Most welcome

[@AJ-kv1po]

Is the name of the colours unique to australia and translate to a different name overseas?

[@chasingcars]

I think so, yes

[@93gus]

The multimedia unit looks exactly like the 12.3 inch unit in the MY23 Kluger Grande.

[@chasingcars]

It’s the same albeit with a slightly different skin/font package

[@snoopy13946]

Do you have to have that grille?

[@chasingcars]

the RX 500h’s grille is black

[@JL-hc3to]

Yep

[@bossoli60]

I think with the mileage you claim you are one of the test drivers who understand what’s an hybrid.Great review though 😊

[@user-wb4xj2um3u]

I think 500h definitely come near dynamically to BMW X5, or Mercedes GLE, as all around package simply by far much better from the Germans, reliability is something to be consider... 😀. RX is a luxury SUV therfore you should consider the 500h... price and the fuel economy are irrelevant .😀 ..

[@sheezy2526]

Perfect if you can afford it

[@Mark-jz5ye]

Nah, the copper is the stand out colour. The green is nice though

[@zigadiboom982]

When did Ed Sheeran start reviewing cars

[@brianmwirigi200]

I think the Lexus NX 350h will feel more powerful than the RX350h with the same engine because the NX is smaller and lighter

[@1lionmurrill]

That car is not $87,500. I don’t know where he got that price from.

[@gnatgawanis4481]

when is the RX plug in hybrid coming to australia?

[@HiddenWen]

I got to see one up close on my recent maintenance at a Lexus dealership, and I have to say I wasn't impressed. The doors have a fake and cheap feeling to them, especially the handles that don't actually do anything. I'm not a fan of these electronic door handles that don't move at all on these new RX and NX models. Another thing is the interior feels cheaper as well. So much more piano black and screens...the outgoing gen RX had a much more premium feel even though the interior looked dated.

[@richardluong2011]

I kinda agree with this, my 2nd gen RX sports luxury interior is dated in terms of tech, but it looks very luxury with plenty woodgrain finishing around. It also has the excellent Mark Levinson stereo too. Plus the leather is on the door panels, they now use less leather interior

[@richardluong2011]

But I am still a fan of Lexus comfortable ride, quietness and low maintenance worry free driving. Wouldn't change to Merc or BM :D

[@jspanga]

geez no thanks.. waaay too expensive when there are cupra/volvo hybrids to be had for around 64k

[@FriceRice2819]

The Rx is overpriced in Australia. The base Rx costs more than 100K and does not even have surround camera views that many cheaper mass market car have included. The higher trim RXs are priced near to German rivals. Who would buy a Rx if I can pay a bit more to buy a BMW? No wonder most RXs I see on the road are base models. Lexus needs to up their game in the value proposition and tech or be priced lower or risk losing their traditional market to the Korean and Chinese brands.

[@siquanwu3131]

First!☝️

[@chasingcars]

👏🏼

[@gjmob]

I was, but didn't want to say anything.

[@jupitersydney3555]

Sorry but still like driving a fridge … clinically perfect but oh so boring

[@burakdenizbinay7450]

The design of its nose.. İt won't look strange if you put a Honda badge.

[@-PORK-CHOP-]

Why does this guy remind me of Albanese

[@chasingcars]

I have no idea, since we look and sound virtually nothing alike

[@93gus]

@@chasingcars They both have that broad aussie accent, but one is Anglo. The other one Mediterranean.

[@rmanningau]

But it’s still pig ugly.

[@chasingcars]

Subjective

[@rmanningau]

Indeed.

[@user-sg6zi6vf9q]

ووا

[@thtupid]

I have no doubts this is the better vehicle but I just hate the rhino nose! And I personally like the touch pad RTI but I understand why people prefer having a touchscreen.

[@huto9606]

Can an Hybrid be ever perfect?