The 2025 Lexus RX represents the next model year in the longstanding and impressive tradition that is the compact, five-passenger RX.
The RX has been one of the top choices in the luxury compact SUV class, giving drivers a luxurious alternative to the mainstream models from Honda and Toyota. Going into 2025, this Lexus SUV has two impressive powertrains, but a new setup is incoming. When you want an SUV that does many things well despite not being the sportiest or most engaging, the 2025 Lexus RX can be the SUV you want to drive.
Lexus RX Pros and Cons
Pros
- Plush seats
- High-quality materials
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
- Three hybrid powertrains to choose from
- Sharp bodywork
Cons
- Overly tranquil driving demeanor
- Lackadaisical acceleration
- Doesn’t have the wow factor that comes with many rivals
- Base hybrid powertrain could be skipped
- PHEV model only comes at the highest trims
What powers this Lexus SUV?
RX350
The nonhybrid version of the RX comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This power is routed to the wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the powertrain can be set up in FWD or AWD. The FWD models achieve 22 city/29 hwy mpg while AWD versions are good for 21 city/28 hwy mpg.
RX350h
The base hybrid model has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors to deliver 246 horsepower through a CVT. This hybrid Lexus is only offered in AWD and can achieve 37 city/34 hwy mpg.
RX500h F Sport Performance
When you want the most engaging and dynamic hybrid version of the 2025 Lexus RX, you’ll want to drive the RX 500h F Sport Performance model. This model gives you a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors to produce 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to the wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission and returns 27 city/28 hwy mpg.
RX450h+
The PHEV version of the RX is the RX450h+, which gives you a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and three electric motors. This power setup is strong enough to produce 34 horsepower and 199 lb-t of torque, which is sent to the wheels through a CVT. This plug-in hybrid version can drive for 37 miles on electric power, making it the most efficient model among the RX SUVs.
Has Lexus added anything new?
The gas-only RX now as seven trim levels, including three that start with F Sport. The F Sport Performance model has leather seats and the other two have synthetic upholster. The Sport Performance also comes standard with a larger touchscreen and a panoramic glass roof. The Sport Handling has larger six-piston front brake calipers instead of the dual-piston models for the other F Sport versions.
The new news for the hybrid models is the addition of the RX500h Sport Performance Black Line Special Edition, which will have black exterior trim, black wheels, and orange brake calipers. Every model of this special RX is painted Incognito, which is a new gray color added this year. You’ll also find a new F Sport Design trim for the RX350h that adds a more aggressive look to this base hybrid SUV.
The expected cabin arrangement
Every model of the 2025 Lexus RX is a two-row, five-seat SUV, giving you the setup you want when you’re looking for an upscale compact SUV. The latest version is much more modern than before, giving you added styling with texture fabric sections on the upper door panels and ambient lighting. There’s plenty of cargo room behind the second row, making it easy to carry everything you need for a weekend adventure with your family.
If you choose the RX500h F Sport Performance model, you’ll find more heavily bolstered front seats, black interior trim, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and aluminum pedals. These items give this sporty hybrid the exciting interior look you deserve.
Which Lexus RX should you choose?
If you’re sticking with the nonhybrid model, the RX350 in the Premium Plus trim could be the right choice for you. This mid-range trim has the benefits of a 14.0-linch infotainment screen, leather upholstery, and an optional head-up display.
When you want a hybrid version of the 2025 Lexus RX, but you’re not looking for added power and excitement, the RX350h Premium Plus is similar to its nonhybrid counterpart. Of course, if you’re looking for the most exciting version of this luxury SUV, the RX 500h F Sport Performance is the right model to drive, but its also one of the most expensive versions.
Which version of the 2025 Lexus RX will you drive?
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