√Everything you need to know about the Lexus RX

The Lexus RX is a premium, large SUV that is stacked with plenty of kit. Now in its fifth generation, we answer some frequently asked questions about one of Lexus’s most popular models.

Here at Drive, we recently conducted a road trip in the Lexus RX for Drive TV. A car with plenty of history and celebrating its 20th birthday in Australia this year, we thought we’d answer some frequently asked questions. Here is everything you need to know about the range.

What is the Lexus RX?

The Lexus RX is a premium, large SUV. The RX launched overseas in 1998 and arrived in Australia in 2003. In 2006, the RX broke ground when Lexus became the first luxury carmaker to offer a hybrid powertrain with the RX400h.

RX stands for radiant crossover, with the word radiant representing the bright new future Lexus anticipated at the car’s launch at the start of the millennium.

How much is the Lexus RX in Australia?

The Lexus RX line-up consists of six different variants, with the range kicking off with the RX350h Luxury 2WD ($87,500). At the other end of the spectrum, the range-topping RX500h F Sport Performance will set you back $126,000. Both prices exclude on-road costs.

How big is the Lexus RX?

The Lexus RX slots in between the NX and LX; however, shortly the all-electric RZ will enter the market. The RX sits on the same wheelbase as the RX but is shorter overall.

The RX measures in at 4890mm long, 1920mm wide, 1695mm high, and sits on a wheelbase of 2850mm.

Is there an electric version of the Lexus RX?

There is no electric version of the Lexus RX, but there are four hybrids available in the range. Lexus has recently launched its first dedicated electric vehicle – the Lexus RZ. This SUV is the second electric car in the Lexus line-up – following on from the UX300e small SUV that is based on the petrol-powered UX.

Does the Lexus RX have good standard features?

The base specification offers ample standard features, including eight-way adjustable heated front seats with two-way power lumbar adjustment, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, a power tailgate, safe exit assist, driver monitor camera, and three-zone climate control, to name a few.

It’s also equipped with plenty of safety, including but not limited to low-speed acceleration suppression, lane-departure warning, radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, parking support brake, blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.

Does the Lexus RX have a big boot?

The Lexus RX has a boot capacity of 612L with the rear seats up and 1678L with the rear seats folded.

While this is large, the capacity is down on its main competitors, including the Volvo XC90 (640L/1005L) and the Range Rover Velar (625L/1693L).

Does the Lexus RX come with seven seats?

No, the Lexus RX isn’t offered with seven seats. For more than five seats, the brand has the LX, which sits in the upper large SUV class.

Does the Lexus RX have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, the Lexus RX has Apple CarPlay, which is wireless. Those with an Android have access to Android Auto, but this function is wired.

Does the Lexus RX have a performance variant?

Yes, the Lexus RX has a performance variant in the RX500h F Sport Performance. The 500h is powered by a 2.4-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine packing two electric motors – it produces 273kW and 551Nm, making it the most powerful Lexus hybrid on sale in Australia.