For the latest Lexus RX pricing and information:
https://www.kbb.com/lexus/rx/

It’s been eons since I’ve done a full review on a Lexus RX. It’s about time we checked in.


The 2021 model still rides on the 4th generation chassis and yet, the RX still sells like a champ. Why is that? Well, great resale values and the implied reliability of that Lexus badge don’t hurt. But the RX also more tangible positives.

For instance, the front seats. I’ve said it before, Lexus makes some of the best seats in the automotive world. No pressure points.
The cabin also provides more than enough space for adults in the 2nd row.

Sliding and reclining seatbacks add to the comfort.

The 3rd row found in the longer RX L is too cozy for long-distance adult travel, but kids can manage back there just fine. Passenger space aside the RX’s interior is quiet, filled with quality materials as long as you don’t explore the lower panels, and look, there’s a clock! A classy, classy clock.

The general aesthetic is starting to feel old but there’s still lots to like in here.

And, on a practical note, there are countless storage spots throughout the cabin including huge door bins and this cubby near the driver’s left knee.

For larger loads, the standard power liftgate hides a roomy cargo hold. You can drop the 40/20/40 split rear seats with these handy releases, though it would be nice if seats folded flat.


Very quickly, let’s acknowledge the RX’s exterior. After all these years, its big-grille angularity looks less odd to me, but I’m still not convinced it’s a pretty shape. You might feel differently. I do like our tester's blue paint though.


You might’ve noticed we’re driving an RX F SPORT, which adds unique fascias, 20-inch aluminum wheels, a sport steering wheel, aluminum interior trim and, sportier F SPORT dampers for the suspension. For comparison, here’s what the standard Lexus RX looks like.
So, the F Sport might look sportier but does it drive sportier?


Steering feels light and lackadaisical. Did I choose those words for the alliteration? Yes. But they’re also true.

From the driver’s perch, the RX does not thrill, even in racier F Sport guise. But clearly mellow ride and handling aren’t hurting this guy’s popularity.

Hybrid brakes feel unnatural but actually, work ok. I can come to a smooth stop. Feels weird. Works just fine.

Powering the RX 350 is a 3.5-liter V6 (295 hp 267 lb-ft) partnered with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front or, for an extra $1,400, all-wheel drive.

The RX 450h hybrid comes standard with all-wheel drive, merging a 3.5-liter V6 and 2 electric motors upfront, plus a 3rd electric motor to drive the rear wheels (308 hp Combined). The result is a hybrid that delivers decent acceleration and 30 mpg combined MPG (text: 30 MPG Combined).

For comparison, the non-hybrid all-wheel-drive RX returns 22 mpg combined.

If you want to keep things simple, a basic RX 350 costs a hair above $45,000. That price includes 10-way power front seats, smart key access, dual-zone climate control, and 10 airbags.


Some of the more compelling options are ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an adaptive suspension in the F Sport handling package, and a wide 12.3-inch display replacing the standard 8-inch unit, controlled by Lexus’s Remote Touch Interface.


Some have complained about the remote touch interface…and I will too. The touchscreen is better.

On a safety note, all RX trims include active driver aids like lane departure warning with steering assist, blind-spot monitor, and a Collision Warning System that identifies obstacles ahead including pedestrians, automatically applying the brakes if necessary.


If, as a smart shopper, you’re curious about the alternatives, you might consider the similarly priced Acura MDX, the somewhat pricier but very cool Genesis GV80, or a host of other choices offering varying degrees of affordability and indulgence.


The current RX is not the newest midsize luxury SUV but remains a livable and logical choice. Lexus could probably sell generation-4 for years to come quite successfully. That said, the next time I review a Lexus RX, I hope it’s generation 5.

00:00 2021 Lexus RX 450h
0:40 Interior
1:57 Exterior
2:31 Driving Impressions
3:26 Engine
4:00 Pricing
5:28 Competitors