An Aggressive New Look

The Lexus SUV, "RX," has received a minor change. The key updates are the exterior, now featuring Lexus's new identity called the spindle grille, and improvements to handling. Additionally, the sporty version, named "F Sport," is noteworthy.


Emotional can be interpreted as aiming for qualitative improvement in areas that drivers find intuitively pleasing, beyond what can be expressed numerically. While specific elements like suspension improvements are numerous, the essence is that you'll understand once you drive it.


Regarding the stronger, more distinctive identity, particularly the front mask, a designer explained, "This reflects market research indicating the previous model was perceived as somewhat feminine in the US market." While the aggressive look might seem too intense for Japanese users, it's fitting for a model emphasizing sportiness.

Meets Expectations

The model test-driven was the RX450h F Sport, the sportiest specification among the updated RX models. The suspension system, combining metal springs and air dampers, features dedicated tuning, and like the recently released new "GS," it incorporates performance dampers.

The result is, as intended, a car that is enjoyable to drive. Compared to the previous RX, its overall refinement as a vehicle has improved, with no discernible flaws in any driving condition. The electric motor compensates for low-end torque, while the gasoline engine offers satisfying acceleration in the mid-to-high RPM range.



As a hybrid, it excels in fuel efficiency in city driving. However, the F Sport version's agile performance makes it fun to drive, shifting the focus from economy to sportiness. Those interested in this model are likely drawn to its sporty nature, and in that regard, it does not disappoint.

Onto the Winding Roads

The RX450h's strengths lie in its acceleration and handling. On winding roads, both uphill and downhill, the car's agile movements make for an enjoyable drive. The electric active stabilizer likely contributes significantly to this, controlling body roll and enabling effective weight transfer for stable posture, resulting in quick steering response.

It's satisfying to maneuver a vehicle weighing over two tons with such ample torque. The suspension absorbs minor vibrations while providing a smooth ride, a characteristic shared with large-engined German cars.


The interior craftsmanship is also of high quality, with comfortable seats and excellent quietness contributing to a sense of luxury.

Notably, the Remote Touch interface, designed for intuitive mouse-like operation, has been upgraded to the second generation, following the new GS.

Previously, a side button was pressed with the thumb to confirm selections. The second generation allows for a simple downward push. Cursor movement on the screen no longer has the feeling of being drawn to on-screen buttons, which was a characteristic of the previous model. Lexus states this change, based on market feedback, is an "improvement."

Focus on the Variation Models

Of course, the RX is not solely the hybrid "RX450h" (starting at 5.59 million yen; the F Sport featured in this article is 6.74 million yen). The lineup is diverse, including the front-wheel-drive "RX270" (4.30 million yen), praised for its agility, and the 3.5-liter V6 "RX350" (starting at 4.75 million yen), available in both front-wheel-drive and AWD versions.

Among these, the four-wheel-drive "RX350 F Sport" (5.60 million yen) left a strong impression with its fundamental high level of refinement. Its cornering behavior feels more natural, and it's not underpowered, making it nearly as enjoyable. It's worth considering as an option.


While it's debatable how many people buy an RX specifically for fast driving on winding roads, the overall refinement of the vehicle has improved in every aspect. For those seeking a spacious SUV, this minor change is welcome news.

Ideally, the rear seat cushion could be more comfortable. Its flatness means passengers' thighs don't make full contact with the seat, leading to a feeling of instability. While designers explain this is due to constraints like floor height, adding a thicker cushion at the front or other refinements could further enhance its value to customers.

LEXUS RX450h | LEXUS RX450h
Body Size | Overall Length 4,770 x Overall Width 1,885 x Overall Height 1,690mm
Wheelbase | 2,740mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,630/1,625mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 175mm
Vehicle Weight | 2,100kg (2,130kg for Version L + air suspension; 2,040kg for front-wheel-drive models)
Transmission | Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
Engine | 3,456cc V6 DOHC
Bore x Stroke | 94 x 83mm
Compression Ratio | 12.5
Maximum Engine Output | 183kW (249ps) / 6,000rpm
Maximum Engine Torque | 317Nm / 4,800rpm
Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection
Maximum Front Motor Output | 123kW (167ps)
Maximum Front Motor Torque | 335Nm
Maximum Rear Motor Output | 50kW (68ps)
Maximum Rear Motor Torque | 139Nm
Drive Battery | Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery
Fuel Economy | 16.8km/ℓ (JC08 mode) 18.8km/ℓ (10-15 mode)
For Version L + air suspension: 16.4km/ℓ (JC08 mode) 18.8km/ℓ (10-15 mode)
For front-wheel-drive models: 17.4km/ℓ (JC08 mode) 19.4km/ℓ (10-15 mode)