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The new generation of the most popular mid-size luxury crossover is here and it brings tons of novelties. Once again, the base version continues with the “350” moniker, even though the engine is completely new. Still, the powertrain isn’t the only aspect that brought important upgrades. The new generation brings improvements in nearly every aspect, starting from the passenger space, weight savings, new technologies etc. The new generation debuts as the 2023 Lexus RX350.
Of course, you will also notice a completely new styling, which makes the new model looks a little bit more conventional than before. More importantly, the new platform brings significant improvements regarding ride quality, which is no wonder considering the massive weight savings.
With all these improvements, we have no doubt that the new generation will retain the leading position in the segment, outselling the closest rivals by a large margin. We expect that the launch date will be scheduled for this fall.
2023 Lexus RX350 Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, this redesign brings tons of novelties. For example, the RX has finally switched to Toyota’s new TNGA platform and the benefits are quite obvious. First of all, the new platform brings lots of new possibilities regarding new technologies, whether it’s about powertrain or advanced driver-assistance features. Also, you may count on a lower center of gravity which, combined with a significant 200-pound weight saving, provides much better ride quality. At the same time, the comfort should remain at the same level.
Of course, it’s hard not to notice the new styling. Compared to the previous generation, which aged surprisingly well, the new look utilizes a little bit more conservative approach. The new iteration of the spindle grille looks a little bit toned down, which is something that could attract an even wider range of potential buyers in the future. The overall shape looks a little bit sportier, though, with shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase. The latter gained 2.4 inches.
Interior
The interior changes are also pretty significant. You can notice a completely new cabin, with a typical Lexus design approach – classic and well-built. The new dashboard looks pretty attractive, while the materials and attention to detail are at super-high levels. Still, the most prominent part of this area of the cabin is the new infotainment screen. Not only that it is big, but it is also touch-sensitive, which wasn’t the case with the previous generations of Lexus vehicles, which were relying on a remote touchpad, which wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
The new cabin looks even more upscale than before but also brings more passenger space. With the additional 2.4 inches in wheelbase, it provides more legroom in both rows of seats. Interestingly, the company decided not to offer a three-row version anymore. Instead, Lexus will introduce an all-new three-row crossover in the near future.
We still don’t know the numbers regarding cargo capacity, but we presume there could be some improvements in this aspect as well.
2023 Lexus RX350 Specs
The base version of the new generation continues as the RX350 but things are notably different compared to the previous generation. Instead of the good-old, super-reliable 3.5-liter V6, the new generation features a 2.4-liter turbo-four. Interestingly, the new engine has a little bit less power than the V6, 275 compared to 295 horsepower. However, it offers significantly more torque (309 pound-feet), which results in better driving dynamics. For example, the new model needs 7.2 seconds to hit 60 mph, while the V6-powered model needs around 7.8 seconds.
On the other hand, the new generation continues with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It received just minor tweaks on this occasion, which should improve fuel economy and make the ride even smoother.
2023 Lexus RX350 Fuel Economy
Despite the smaller engine, we don’t expect that the rear-world mpg ratings will be much better compared to the previous generation. Models with the V6 engine were good for about 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway and presume that the new turbo-four will improve these numbers by no more than 1 mpg.
The real improvements in fuel efficiency should come with a new hybrid version. The Japanese manufacturer has prepared three new hybrid powertrains, starting from the base system that’s pretty much the same as in the Highlander, with 246 horsepower. We will also see a plug-in hybrid version, with 300+ horsepower, while the range-topping model, called the RX500h, will come with a turbo-four-based setup and a max output of 367 horsepower.
2023 Lexus RX350 Release Date and Price
We expect that the new generation will hit the market this fall. In terms of the 2023 Lexus RX350 price, we presume it will be slightly higher compared to the outgoing model, which starts at around 47.000 dollars. The new generation will probably start at around $49.000, while models like BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE will remain key competitors.
