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Redesigned 2023 Lexus RX Unveiled As Cadillac XT5 Rival

Lexus just unveiled the all-new 2023 Lexus RX, debuting a long list of changes and updates for the Cadillac XT5 rival, including new styling, new tech, and a range of powertrain options highlighted by a new performance hybrid variant.

Outside, the 2023 Lexus RX is characterized by a large grille and sharp headlight housings, with a low roofline that enhances the model’s sportiness in profile. Under the fenders, the new RX rolls on 19-inch wheels with a dark gray machined finish and color-keyed fenders, while 21-inch wheels are also offered. A total of 10 exterior paint options make the lineup.

The 2023 Lexus RX range includes six trim levels, listed as Standard, Premium, RX-first Premium+, Luxury, F Sport Handling, and RX-first F Sport Performance. Options are plentiful, highlighted by a panorama glass roof, head-up display, 14-inch touchscreen, and Digital Key system. Customers will be able to choose from six interior color combinations as well.

Onboard safety tech is provided by the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which throws in the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Intersection Support with Motorcycle Detection, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Emergency Driving Stop System. Controls are via the Lexus Interface Multimedia System.

The 2023 Lexus RX will offer four powertrains, with the RX 350 equipped with a turbocharged 2.4L I4 gasoline engine, the RX 350h equipped with a 2.5L I4 gasoline engine and electric motor, and the RX 450h+ offering a plug-in hybrid, the details of which will be revealed at a later date. There’s also the new RX 500h F Sport Performance, which is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4L gasoline engine and rear-mounted electric motor, yielding a new level of performance for the nameplate.

Under the skin is Toyota’s GA-K architecture, with the crossover’s curb weight now nearly 200 pounds lighter than the outgoing generation. The wheelbase is also 2.36 inches longer, although the rear overhang was shortened an equal amount, which means that the overall length is identical to that of the previous generation.

The 2023 Lexus RX is set to go on sale at the end of the 2022 calendar year.

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Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

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Comments

  1. I’m glad Lexus is finally phasing out the “Predator” mouth grille but the RX brand is not the massive hit it used to be and I do think Lexus (due to Toyota dragging its feet) misses the mark by not having a full-EV variant.
    That being said, the interior looks fantastic and they finally eliminated the CD player.

    Reply
    1. They have an Ev coming that is essentially the EV version of the RX.

      Reply
  2. Shame that GM let the XT5 wither on the vine. Should have been significantly updated by now. But, of course, the LyriQ is the incoming replacement. But for those who don’t want an electric vehicle the XT5 is out of date.

    Reply
    1. @91fairladyz The XT5 looks nice bruh quit complaining

      Reply
  3. WOW, the front looks like a BIG Hitler Mustache.

    Reply
    1. If you can’t afford it just say that. Make sure to get your spark before it’s canceled.

      Reply
      1. Little dicky can’t afford his own name.

        Reply
        1. I never will understand why you won’t just use your name Peter?

          Reply
          1. I’m not Peter. I’m the middle school brat. That uses other peoples names when trolling.

            Reply
            1. So your Peter G as I said.

              Reply
              1. No, Peter G. Is a damn liberal, and I’ve been trolling all the damn liberals getting them to stop commenting.

                Reply
                1. No you are Peter g you both write the same way and talk identical I’m sorry you are so stressed that you feel the need to make a fake name on a crappy gm website.

                  Reply
                  1. Ignore him Peter G is a coward who is so desperate for attention he is so scared to get banned he created an alter ego which he trolls from, the dude is a straight pu$$.

                    Reply
  4. If by competitor you mean annihilator.

    Reply
  5. The interior is the nicest bit……..because from there one can’t see the exterior.

    Reply
    1. LOL, nice 1 Meg

      Reply
  6. I could care less on this one

    Reply
  7. I thought it looks like Voldemort for a second lol

    Reply
  8. Well now, that’s…………………………………..

    Still ugly.

    Reply
  9. Regardless what all of us think about its looks, it will sell well to the Lexus faithful and followers.

    Reply
    1. Johnls 39, yes build a Lexus and the sheep will cum.

      Reply
    2. Johnls_39:

      Yes, and I can sum it up with one word.

      “SHEEP”

      Reply
  10. I just don’t understand why Cadillac still isn’t competitive. I’m tired of hearing the newly imagined Cadillac for the last 30 years. Probably longer but I was too young in the 80s to pay attention.

    I don’t like Lexus, but Cadillacs today are still behind.

    Reply
  11. Once again, on a continuing theme, Lexus and the parent company produce the MOST UGLY cars on this planet. But, you must agree they have succeeded to a high degree in their strive to produce noticeable UGLY vehicles, if that’s called success.

    Reply
    1. success is being the most profitable auto company in the world.

      Reply
      1. steve: Can you back that up?

        Reply
        1. yes

          Reply
          1. Then do it. I can’t answer who is most profitable in the world. But I’m not confident it’s Lexus. So please share where you get your info.

            Reply
            1. fire up the google machine.

              Reply
  12. You know Lexus is invested in its vehicles when it reveals the RX in a way that they did. Can’t say the same for Cadillac with the XT5/XT6.

    You can only get the Cadillacs in a bland 3.6 V6 no frills, no V Series, mediocre Gas Milage, bland interior.

    At least Lexus decided to give its FSport trim an actual power bump this time around. 0-60 in less than 6 seconds which is good when you consider the combined 26 mpg it gets at being the bigger crossover. Looks like it has autonomous driving, actual racing tuned suspension, and a full pano. Plus the other bells and whistles

    You can’t possibly tell me you’d select a top trim XT5/XT6 versus what this RX Platform offers.

    If GM can’t answer to this, they’re in trouble. They’re the only brand in the luxury segment without a proper Performance variant: SQ5, AMG GLE/GLC, XM5, MDXAspec, FSport, Aviator, GV70/80.

    And the sales numbers prove a bigger point GM is nearly last in this segment which is a growing segment.

    Lyriq is okay but they’re not the only players in that segment, soon it’s going to be flooded with competition. I hope it goes without a hitch, I like the Lyriq, didn’t at first but I’ve came to like it.

    Reply
    1. Oops MDX Type S

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      1. Looking forward to the EV replacement for the XT5.

        Reply
  13. I have to say, the Cadillac Lyric got this beat. The car is unattractive and I expected more from Lexus. What’s happening this brand?

    Reply

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