Lexus has revealed its fifth-generation RX SUV, which gains plug-in hybrid power for the first time.

Along with the recently launched NX and newly revealed RZ, the new RX is expected to help build the ‘Next Chapter’ of the Lexus brand

The large SUV has been a Lexus bestseller over the last two decades and sold more than 3.5 million units sold worldwide since its introduction in 1998, bringing the fight to models such as the Volvo XC90 and BMW X5.

The new iteration ups the ante with a choice of three hybrids – including the first-ever plug-in hybrid – as part of the brand’s ‘Lexus Electrified’ strategy, along with new dynamic systems and latest onboard tech. Along with the recently launched NX and newly revealed RZ, it’s expected to help build the ‘Next Chapter’ of the Lexus brand.

It’s built on a new platform, making the switch to an enhanced version of Toyota’s GA-K platform that’s said to deliver excellent body rigidity and a low centre of gravity while also weighing in at 90kg less.

It also gains bolder and sleeker new looks with an extended bonnet, a 60mm longer wheelbase and 10mm lower roofline, giving a coupé-like feel, while the track has been widened by 10mm at the front and 50mm at the rear. Lexus has also made its ‘floating roof’ signature black rear pillar more three-dimensional in appearance, and teamed it up with large 21-inch wheels.

The interior gets a driver-focused, ergonomic Tazuna cockpit design, first introduced on the new NX and RZ and intended to drive safety under the principal of ‘hands on the wheel, eyes on the road’. It’s also said to improve the driving experience, with its intuitive and clean layout, enhanced by a new 14-inch touchscreen.

Interior space has been increased while the load height is now 30mm lower and the luggage compartment is 50mm longer. The 40:20:40 split rear seats can also accommodate items such as skis or surfboards.

In Europe, the RX will be offered with a trio of hybrids, catering for a variety of needs. The entry-level RX 350h hybrid is positioned as an efficient alternative to smaller diesel and petrol powertrains. The 2.5-litre hybrid engine provides 245hp and a 0-62mph time of 8.0 seconds along with expected CO2 of 143-150g/km and fuel consumption: 6.4-6.7l/100km (42.2-44.1mpg).

The line-up also gains the brand’s first-ever turbo hybrid, the RX 500h, which teams up a 2.4-litre turbo hybrid engine with six-speed automatic transmission, Dynamic Rear Steering and the Direct4 drive force control technology launched recently on the RZ 450e. It delivers 371hp of power, a 0-62mph time of 6.0 seconds and CO2 of 182-189g/km with fuel consumption of 8.2-8.5l/100km (33.2-34.4mpg).

The first plug-in hybrid RX also features and is expected to be the best-selling RX model in Western and Central Europe.

The RX 450h+ features a four-cylinder 2.5-litre hybrid engine and an 18.1kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery – able to deliver an EV driving range of around 65km (some 40 miles). An additional rear electric motor enables full-time all-wheel drive.

Total output stands at 306hp – around the same as the outgoing RX 450h but with more torque and faster acceleration; it’s expected to deliver 0-62mph acceleration in around seven seconds. It will also boast significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions. WLTP combined CO2 emissions are targeted to be less than 26g/km with fuel economy of less than 1.2 l/100km (235.4mpg). The RX 450h+ also introduces new connected features, including monitoring the level of battery charge, scheduling charging and a charging timer.

In Eastern European markets, Lexus will also offer an RX 350 variant with a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering higher performance than the current model – it will provide 279hp along with a 0-62mph time of 7.1 seconds, CO2 of 197g/km and fuel consumption of 8.8l/100km (32.1mpg).

Onboard equipment includes the third-generation Lexus Safety System+, provided as standard on all grades and with improved Pre-Collision System, new Proactive Driver Assist and Extended Safety Package. The RX also features the latest multimedia platform with Hey Lexus Smart Voice Assistant and the Lexus Link app, while the car’s DCM (data communication module) provides always-on connectivity, delivering live information on traffic events, accidents and road conditions.

Other highlights include the availability of an animal-free leather interior, created in response to growing demand from vegan and other eco-conscious consumers, and a new ‘Lexus Mood Selector’ feature that allows occupants to tailor the RX’s ambient lighting from a palette of 64 colours and 14 bespoke themes.

Easy smartphone integration is provided as standard – wireless for Apple CarPlay and with a wired connection for Android Auto. A wireless charging tray is available, with 50% quicker charging performance, and the RX can be specified with a digital rear-view mirror that provides a live 360-degree view around and pre-recorded view under the car from cameras that can now be cleaned automatically.

High-grade versions of the RX come as standard with a new 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound audio, and it’s available with an Advanced Park system, developed from that used on the Lexus LS flagship sedan.

Deliveries of the new RX will begin in the first quarter of 2023.