This "stealthy" 2023 Lexus RX 350h Redefines Smooth, Comfort, and Quiet...

Is this the best NEW RX? Here's why the 350h is very impressive.
RX 350h (AWD)
A hybrid motor coupled with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with 246 total system horsepower and 233 lb.-ft. of torque is teamed with a high-output, low-resistance nickel-metal hydride battery that offers a high level of output and fuel economy. The 216-cell battery is located below the rear seat, thus enabling improved passenger comfort and storage capacity. RX HEV can be equipped with E-Four, Lexus’ innovative all-wheel drive system, which places a motor at the rear axle for near-instantaneous drive force application in low-grip or acceleration scenarios.
The all-new 5th generation #LexusRX comes in so many flavors. This #luxury trim of the new #Rx350h powertrain is loaded with features options and luxury.
Lexus pioneered the luxury crossover segment with the launch of the first RX more than 20 years ago and never looked back. Today, Lexus redefined what the RX means to guests with the global reveal of the all-new RX at the Lexus New Product Showcase. And as the first luxury brand to offer a hybrid in the segment, it’s only fitting that RX returns with a variety of electrified powertrains. The 2023 Lexus RX, the fifth generation for the Lexus core model, is completely redesigned from the wheels to the roof rails, featuring a new global platform, two all-new grades, available Digital Key, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and Lexus Interface Multimedia System.
While pursuing a unique identity for 2023, the redesigned model maintains what makes an RX an RX: a comfortable, quiet in-cabin atmosphere, refined ride comfort, excellent grip and drive force control and confident driving enjoyment.
“Nothing exemplifies our commitment to the transformation we’re making as a brand and Next Chapter for Lexus product more than the renewal of our best-selling vehicle - the RX,” said Andrew Gilleland, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “We’re breathing new life into the segment-leading RX with enhanced safety and technology, human-centered design and undeniable performance from a diverse mix of powertrains.”
00:00 - The new Lexus RX lineup is impressive
03:59 - Fuel Economy
04:49 - Interior improvements
05:15 - Handling, Ride, Brakes
06:18 - Cabin Noise
06:55 - 350h the best RX?
08:15 - 0-60 and performance
10:33 - Which RX is right for you?
11:36 - Final Thoughts on RX 350h

[@mark_u]

The RX350h is definitely the pick of the line-up. The 2.5 hybrid is adequately speedy, provides excellent fuel economy, and has already been proven to be reliable. I believe this trim perfectly encapsulates the RX's mission of a being no-nonsense, comfortable cruiser.

[@KirkKreifels]

Don't forget luxury smooth and quiet

[@zemo2332]

Does it require premium gasoline?

[@matthewalexis]

@@zemo2332 Recommended. It isn't required.

[@joeycandelario8707]

Kirk, I always appreciate your in depth reviews….. thank you very much!

[@justSTUMBLEDupon]

Glad you uploaded the video even with the almost missed stop sign. Showed how the car would behave in a real life situation of hard breaking with a little fear mixed in. Handled well.

[@YA-xi9nf]

Test drove it today. Love it 💞

[@KM-lz2ch]

I watched the 500h video and realized that what I really want is a luxury ride. I'm so glad you posted this video because it appears this just might be the car I've been looking for..and after a year of looking at cars, it's a relief! I have a couple questions for you.. (1) If smaller wheels give a smoother ride, then why would Lexus put them in the lesser priced packages and not the higher? Don't you want a smoother ride with the 350h since it's about luxury and comfort? (2) How is the glare on that 14" screen? I never looked at the RX before..but now this baby has caught my eye! Let's see if I can get my hands on one next year! The 350h Luxury model looks perfect for me! BTW..you just gave the 'California Stop' a whole new meaning!😆 Stay safe out there and thank you for your reviews and all the NEW Lexus RX info you've been pumping out!

[@jsfbay1]

I think that the large wheel thing is a fad (that hopefully starts reversing itself soon) so Lexus needs to compete in that department. Although having a short sidewall means less sidewall flex and potentially better handling. The engineers can compensate for the big wheels and short sidewall heights by changing spring and shock rates, increasing suspension travel, adding adaptive dampers (and other things likely beyond my knowledge level) but a giant pothole can break a rim, there's only so much you can do (with suspension design) when dealing with such short sidewall tires. Maybe, just maybe, those vehicles that read the road ahead might be able to adapt the shocks before hitting the pot hole and thereby not breaking a rim. Maybe.

[@sammydavis991]

Kirk, I watch most auto reviewers. You are top notch. Keep it up.

[@KirkKreifels]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@sayandebbhattacharyya355]

Does this take regular or premium gas ?

[@MrKeyman04]

Premium preferred but not required

[@ibrahimbashir6634]

How clean the design is ❤😘 Want one 😭❤❤❤

[@whyallthefuss201]

The 350h is the model I’m probably going to get it for my wife. Not interested in

[@letsgobrandon5800]

05:50. Kirk coming in hot!!!

[@zyxzyx3030]

He sure is😎

[@jassmaan4295]

I pick up 250h yesterday 2023 guys very good car

[@rzemos]

The engine options are great, they have something for everyone!

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Agreed .

[@user-gw5rs7fp9j]

Except a smooth V6…😥

[@rzemos]

@@user-gw5rs7fp9j The new turbo I4 is as smooth as the old V6, if not smoother.

[@user-gw5rs7fp9j]

@@rzemos ok. I guess I just love the smooth and to me sophisticated sound of a v6 compared to a 4. Prefer the nicer sound over performance in my case. Oh well gotta stick to the the previous model then aye. Ty for your reply.

[@waynefaber4477]

This is my third RX in a row…..by far their best edition. My 2023 rx350h is superb. Plenty of zip, mileage is way up now. Seats are terrific, ambient lighting, great screen and very intuitive.

[@styner3]

This is the exact model I’m buying including the interior/exterior colors.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Excellent choose indeed

[@toronado455]

Seems very good. ✅

[@lolkzmk3548]

I love that word 'buttery smooth' from your mouth every time

[@Eatshhhushi]

This is going to be the car for my wife!

[@leol1989]

I like this color

[@tommytqt1]

Hello Kirk, how does the RX (in general) compare to the GLE?

[@MrRichardyc]

how is the turning radius? I have a 22 and find it's hard to get in and out tight parking space.

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

Kirk, great review, and really on point for me. I own a 22 RX 350L, which I love for its quietness, smooth ride, and awesome Levinson audio. For my next vehicle, I was leaning towards the 500h, but the qualities you emphasize--ride and silence--are crucial to me. And the normally aspirated 4 with a hybrid system is potentially highly reliable. Though I don't know what batteries will do to long-term reliability and resale. I didn't expect the 350h to be so smooth. Thanks again.

[@namvet1968]

Interesting. How much does the base model of the 350h cost?

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

@@namvet1968 I believe it is unknown at this time.

[@dalehuhtala9285]

Do you think the quiet and comfort is equal to the Genesis GV70 (with 19" wheels) or does one stand above the other?

[@mitchlader]

Hi Kirk, The NX350/450+ have wood trim if you select the Luxury Package (LL) . Mitch From Freeman Lexus

[@pavloshylov6669]

What size of wheels 🛞 would you recommend for this RX 350h AWD ? 19 or 21???

[@OmarSlimati]

I would love to know which is more comfortable the mercedes glc /gle with airmatic or this new lexus rx 350h

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Krik excellent video .Rx is only getting better and better .❤💙.

[@billymccall5803]

What camera are you using ? The colors are vivid

[@peter300pete]

if preorder opens in October, and you place an order right away, I guess you should expect a delivery at least 8-12 months from then. I have been waiting for my nx350h for 7 months now and no update yet.

[@joniboulware1436]

All the Lexus and Toyota hybrids are loooong waits.

[@josefernandez2722]

Hi Kirk. I was waiting for this. How does the RX350h compare with the NX350h when it comes to nimbleness and handling?

[@blessabe1]

Do you know if it requires premium gas? I have 2019 RX 350 which uses regular gas. If the new 350 h can use unleaded regular gas, I may switch. My 350 uses 13.2litters for 100km.

[@Fightdog]

I think they finally got the grill right

[@kazukinakamura1110]

Hope the steering is tighter. I tested the 2022 RX and I’m not used to such a light steering wheel. I like my 2017 LS460 F Sport steering. So maybe for RX, the F Sport is needed.

[@normt430]

Compared to the Midsize Premium SUV segment, Lexus owners are more often women, are older, and enjoy a lower median annual household income. J.D. Power data shows that 42% of Lexus RX owners are female (vs. 38% for the segment), that their median age is 65 (vs. 58 for the segment), and that their median annual household income is $155,303 (vs. $184,248 for the segment).

[@aurorajones8481]

I approve this message.

[@VishalSiva11]

do you have a rough estimate about how much this 350h model will cost ? in the 450h+ video you had mentioned 55k-65k

[@TheDoltonboy]

What purpose do paddle shifters have on a CVT?

[@roysmith4953]

Does it have lane centering or lans keeping?

[@MedMed-fd9mh]

Thank you for great review if I may ask from comfort point view Which Ride better ES or the new RX

[@KirkKreifels]

They're close. I'd say ES narrowly but I haven't driven the Rx with 19" wheels

[@MedMed-fd9mh]

@@KirkKreifels what about the difference between the ride quality of Rx and NX ?

[@calcham1]

I've been looking at the colors for the rx350H. From videos I've seen, it appears the blue color is a lighter shade of blue, almost royal. In previous years, the blue was "midnight mica" (I think), and that was closer to a navy blue. Do you know if the rx350H 2023 comes in a new lighter blue or navy?

[@RGM.13]

Went to a dealership 2 days ago. Can cofirm the blue is very dark almost black under certain light - didnt see it in the sun. Its a really beautiful blue.

[@calcham1]

@@RGM.13 Thanks so much! i prefer the darker color.

[@CapitalJ25]

Great review! Now can I afford it??

[@ohcanadaeh]

Does the RX350h come with a spare tire ?

[@Mico77777]

What about the stereo sound quality and the comfort level of the seat? I don’t care about the stitching and dashboard, just want to know how the seat feels.

[@livingstone2k1]

Hey Kirk, having driven both the NX350h and the RX350h, what do you think about performance and power on both, particularly the RX? DOes the increased weight translate into a bit of lag? BTW, I loved your NX review; one of the reasons why I have a Grecian Water NX350h sitting in my driveway! 😜

[@KirkKreifels]

Hi mate! They feel super similar. Rx just bigger. Not much slower to my senses. NXh in g.w. paint is amazing! Congratulations

[@windtherapy99]

@@KirkKreifels how’s the quietness and ride compared to the NX?

[@warrenbares9493]

Kirk, Great review. Just one question. I read a September, 2022 review by Motor Trend. The review had the following comment: "Unless you constantly drive the 2023 Lexus RX350h while wearing thick-soled boots, the biggest dynamic issue with the new SUV doesn't require fast driving to notice. In two examples we drove, the accelerator and brake pedal transmitted more feedback than we'd like. While certainly not a deal-breaker, it was far more pronounced in the RX 350h hybrid than in the RX 350, RX 500h hybrid, or RX 450h plug-in hybrid we drove on the same day." Can you please comment on this? Did you notice this excessive feedback with the accelerator and brake pedals?

[@KirkKreifels]

I drove them all in the same day too. Didn't notice a difference in pedal feel. If it's too aggressive then select Eco mode.

[@ACCBARES]

@@KirkKreifels Did you notice any significant feedback from the pedals with any of the 2023 RX models?

[@jsfbay1]

Any idea if changing rims from 21" to 17 or 18" rims mess with suspension calibration? Because the first thing I'd do if I bought an RX with 21" rims and tires is to sell the tires/rims and buy new ones. Certainly one thing to be sure of is that the new tires are about the same diameter so that the speedometer indicates correctly.

[@CuriousGeorge1111]

I skipped the Luxury package on my 22 RX for the same reason--to get stock 18" wheels instead of 20". The 23 21" rim/tire combination has the same diameter as my 22 18" wheels. I see nothing indicating they wouldn't be a direct swap. So if I get a 350h, I'll try swapping wheels, and keep the set I prefer.

[@RnBFAN06]

I know these are pre-production, but it's still funny to see that the wood in the steering wheel doesn't match the other bamboo wood.

[@InvestBetter.]

Lexus RX350h Has become a larger, slightly quieter Rav4 Hybrid I thought that was the job of the Highlander?

[@zyxzyx3030]

Is it my imagination or do these have available windshield sunshades?

[@bradcolby3624]

Still like my 2022 RX 350 V6 after all of these videos. Can’t stand a CVT..and loud buzzy turbo 4..in the new 350. Maybe MDX in the future

[@vutsup1]

Hey Kirk. Thanks again! This one is also on my list to try. More than likely I think we will be purchasing a Lexus RX over Genesis GV just because of the drive, price & longevity. What are your thoughts?

[@dalehuhtala9285]

I was close to pulling the trigger on the RX but went with the GV70 instead for the technology, looks interior and price. The 2.5T is $10,000 less than the Lexus in Canada. I'm not disappointed!

[@naveenthemachine]

You should just purchase a gv80 and forget the RX.

[@GuuiYae]

If you close the Panoroof shade, it's going to be even more quiet.

[@dyoolan]

Just put down a deposit for the rx350h premium plus model. Can't decide between copper crest(looks like rose gold) or iridium(silver) color exterior. Choosing black interior for classy and clean look

[@duchoang7856]

Does the 4 cylinder has both direct and port fuel injection or direct injection only?

[@timothydevries383]

Both. It's the usual A25A

[@AutoEnthusiastJC]

what was the first model year RX to come with apple carplay?

[@AutoEnthusiastJC]

@@chezzyperson3339 Ah, yeah, I knew Lexus has been slow on the tech updates. Was almost wondering whether this new one was the first 😄. Love its new screen.

[@naveenthemachine]

2020, when it also brought back a touchscreen but still kept the trackpad

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@naveenthemachine OK NAVEENTHEMACHINE .Dont START NOW.🙄

[@haduong5828]

With your expectation, Will Lexus come out 450H or something in between 500H with more HP but no plug-in. I’m waiting for it. This 350H has less HP!

[@Xyleryx]

It's about time they redesigned it

[@Danielle-tx2es]

rear camera mirror?

[@jsfbay1]

Kirk, is this the 5th generation hybrid system in the new RX? Just curious.

[@KirkKreifels]

I believe it's 4th

[@jsfbay1]

@@KirkKreifels That seems like a big miss. Maybe 5th gen is for smaller lighter vehicles.

[@Danielle-tx2es]

which is this trim?

[@linnmagic]

Is it true that Lexus don’t offer the Mark Levinson Audio system on the RX350h?

[@KirkKreifels]

This is false. It is on luxury and available on premium plus I think

[@vprrealtor6244]

I was told that Lexus RX took Unleaded Gasoline. Is that accurate?

[@shaunsebastian532]

What kind a gas they use on this car

[@LamNguyen-zp1yv]

RX 350h do they have F. Sports?

[@william6765]

So my NX 350h has 240 HP, so if it has the same 2.5 liter engine and most likely the same rear electric motor, how does the RX350h get 246 HP?

[@garman7921]

I believe it has a bigger rear E motor

[@william6765]

@@garman7921 that would make sense. I would like to know for sure

[@garman7921]

@@william6765 I have a 22 RX 450h, I was told that the RX series has a stronger rear motor

[@WhiteLakeDan]

I just placed an order for a 350h in Pearl white with the “ultra” package (the one just below the executive). Ordered it sight unseen and price unknown but I suspect it’ll be more than acceptable once I see it and drive it. Can’t wait! ….. Edit 2 months later . So disappointed in the car when I saw it and drove it. Uncomfortable and very noisy when I stepped on it not to mention the mind boggling controls. I got my refund back and glad to have at least try it.

[@paulbugoni2846]

They ruined it.

[@Moondoggy1941]

Go to Ventura to eat some Mexican food, just off Hwy 33 to Ojai and and the 101, 4200 N Ventura Ave Maggie's On the Ave, get the fried flour tacos.

[@sak1339]

This seems to be a great road trip car, based on this review.

[@sammydavis991]

Is this hybrid the fifth generation version? Not that I know the difference between the 4th and fifth

[@KirkKreifels]

Fourth I believe. 5th has a new lithium battery I understand

[@arhamkhakwani5851]

@@KirkKreifels interested to see how that will do. The 4th Gen is already an amazing power train.

[@ibrahimbashir6634]

Man just declear it best in class 👑💜 Before naveenthemachine comes 😂😂😂

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Agreed .maga and naveenthemachine already in action.

[@ag4eng]

That’s such a nice 5-seater SUV that compliments the bigger models. My gripe is Toyota got rid of the V6.

[@AeroDude73]

246hp/233 pft seem pretty strong to me 🤷‍♂️😉👍🏼

[@stephenr6194]

What a shame for such price point you get a front wheel drive four cylinder not even 300hp and not made in Japan

[@paul9874]

I tried to order a 2023 RX350h. You can not order that vehicle from the factory. There is no factory ordering. All you can do is tell the dealer what you are hoping for and they then search the current built vehicle database to see how close they can get to what you want. For a $60K vehicle that seems dumb to me. The dealer has my deposit and I will give them a month or so to see what they can do but I am still researching vehicles.

[@happyhippo1710]

Does it use premium gas or regular?

[@cheezehdglen9468]

I just bought a 2022. I can't see a 4 cly turbo burning anything but Premium. I refuse to ever buy a Premium burning vehicle again.

[@MrKeyman04]

Premium fuel preferred but not necessary

[@user-gw5rs7fp9j]

All nice but that cvt? Sound oh my

[@letsgobrandon5800]

Far superior to anything Volvo makes ( reliability) and much better than MB, BMW and Audi.

[@iana36s]

Depends what you want in a vehicle.

[@8xus_]

Its just a slight bit disappointing they switched to 4 cylinder, but I’d take the 2023 anyday

[@tonyantonuccio4748]

Is premium gas a requirement or a recommendation?

[@KirkKreifels]

Recommended

[@sjrp]

Lexus salesman told me premium mandatory

[@garman7921]

@@sjrp on 2022 hybrid yes, 2023 recommended

[@william6765]

I don’t think 21 inch tires are a good idea for places that have tough winters. I would go with the 19 inch wheels as there is a better selection of tires as well.

[@BigPowerAL]

Would be great to go over buying options. My wife and I dropped by our Lexus dealership to inquire about the 2023 models. They have very little information on availability, pricing etc.

[@alengreen589]

If this car comes with a price between $ 45 - 60k? Than the RX must be a hot seller in the US.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

More like 49k to 70k i am saying overall in terms of the trim levels

[@alengreen589]

@@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961 $ 70k maybe the RX with 366 HP Hybrid AWD fully loaded? but i think that the most customers buy the cheaper one´s?

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@alengreen589 rx350h

[@appleforever6664]

@@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961 - $55K for the hybrid is my guess.

[@alengreen589]

@@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961 👍

[@martynsolajide6177]

Question, is the all new RX350 14” center screen black and white lcd or color screen? Looking at other rivals-GLE350, BMW X5 and Audi, their center screens looks more like OLED screen. Very crisp and clean and tastefully colorful. The RX screen looks very cheap to me. Almost as if it’s some kids iPad. 🤔🤷🏾

[@Dholt]

Was all good until you said “on premium fuel” 😢

[@Azul36550]

I really wish the Rx500 could've been equipped with their V8. I would loved a mean sounding RX with that styling. The 4 cylinder on their performance model is disappointing sound wise.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

WELL THE RX NEVER HAD A V8 SO ITS NOT ISSUE

[@Azul36550]

@@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961 So? There was never a 500 trim either. Why not make it a V8 like the other 500 trims. IS500 and LC500.

[@mark_u]

The RX was never meant to have a V8 😅 But I quite agree that the naming scheme for engine trims is very convoluted atm

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@Azul36550 i answered you in my comment itself . Again .rx never had a v8 and its fwd based so v8 is not possible .rx is a not huge vehicle so these engines are more than powerfull enough .remember rx500h has more power than the mdx type s .lol. just less than gv80 lol.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@mark_u well every brand does that lol.mercedes use s580 does not mean v8 .lol

[@jasutenliubo]

Do you think the 450H+ will be more expensive than the 500H?

[@blackwhirlwind1245]

500H will be more expensive, but probably not by much.

[@yagsarsh7165]

But to get to 50mph I have to floor the pedal with my Rx 350H

[@cpg8000]

“Throw it in the turns”… 🤨

[@freehypes]

lol wtf is this guy laughing about for not stopping at a stop sign jesus...

[@GudInformation]

Who the is designing these grills, am I the only one who thinks they are getting worse?

[@dandelionsbeauty]

CVT transmission?

[@madcowusa4277]

There's no way I would enjoy washing this car given all the effort it would require for those wheels and especially the cheese-grater grill.

[@bensonwu1238]

The 2023 Lexus RX 350h shares the same interior with the 2022 Lexus NX350h.

[@jml9550]

I sat in both at the dealer last week. the RX is wider with more leg and shoulder room. Interior material has seems better in the RX. The price differences similarly spec is around $10K.

[@level10boy]

I'm shocked they've removed the drive mode selector, huge mistake that, probably one of the most used knobs in both our Lexi. And why is it in the NX and but the RX, typically strange decision making from Lexus. Too many deal breakers in this RX!

[@KirkKreifels]

It's not hard to implement! Frustrating I agree

[@mark_u]

Always loved the "Shrek ears" drive mode adjustment in the UX, ES, LS, and LC. Thought they looked cool and those were significantly more intuitive than on-screen controls 😀

[@tommycastro7357]

Big mistake. The V6 Rx350 was the best ever made. This may be ok in the beginning but won't last yrs on the road. When the battery goes bad. It will not be covered. At that time the warranty has already expired and it will cost you a fortune. And running an electric companions that's going to be questionable not a good idea at all

[@rampy4963]

The problem with this car is thr extra long wheel base. I own the 2017.... can't imagine maneuvering the newer RX with an even longer wheel base. Great if you're sailing down the highway, crap driving around town.

[@Vnguyen0i0]

is this video paid by Lexus?

[@fbp452]

Lexus paid for flights and hotels for auto journalists from all over the world to review the new RX in southern California. Most auto manufactures do the same. Up to you to interpret how important that is.

[@iana36s]

Ugh. Lexus is definitely not chasing my type. Thank god for different manufacturers with different missions.

[@desert-fax-only]

California stop 😅

[@Phil-D83]

Interior needs work

[@emerycomputer]

Honestly, you sound like Toyota is paying you for this gig; the hyperbole is strong in this one. The engine(s) configuration is way noisier than previous 450h V6 hybrid, for one. The acceleration way poorer as the torque values are diminished. The design is getting dated. And yes, if I pay that kind of $$$ I expect the car this size/weight to do better from standstill to 100. This is the definition of old lady's car.

[@bradbrown1240]

You’re talking way too quickly Kirk!

[@sinbad5702]

Rx would be my first choice if there was an option of turbo v6