Lexus RX: A luxury SUV that drives like a sedan
Re-designed in 2023, the 2024 Lexus RX is the latest version of America’s most popular and best-selling luxury vehicle for 10 consecutive years. Stylish and dependable with Lexus’ award-winning reliability, the brand’s newest crossover is a powerful combination for families who desire practicality and comfort.
“The (2024) RX builds on the extraordinary refinement introduced on the fifth-generation RX in 2023,” Lexus said in its 2024 RX unveiling release. “Based on customer feedback, the 2024 RX enhances the available technology and convenience features to optimize the driving and in-cabin experience.”
There are six premium grades offered with the RX – Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F Sports Handling and F Sports Performance. Additionally, a new RX 450h+ Plugin Hybrid Vehicle adds a bit of high-performance enthusiasm to the platform’s sustainable portfolio.
A True Game Changer
Groundbreaking in 1998, Lexus introduced the world to something very new – the first-ever mass-produced crossover utility vehicle (CUV). The RX 300 was an evolution for road-going transportation, as it combined the best features of its sedans and the practicality of an SUV.
“The RX ushered in a new standard of comfort, design and performance for manufacturers worldwide,” said Lexus, who reported nearly 42,000 RXs sold that year.
Now in its fifth generation, the 2024 Lexus RX comes in numerous powertrains, catering to a wide variety of interests. Customers enter the space with the 350 and 350h models, the latter hybridizing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a high-output, low-resistance battery that produces a combined 246 horsepower. Both versions come in all-wheel drive, while the 350 offers a front-wheel drive standard.
At an estimated 37 miles per gallon, the RX 450h brings together efficiency and acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds). The plug-in electric hybrid system allows for the security of a four-cylinder engine married with the raw power and efficiency of an electric powertrain.
New for 2024
Lexus did not forget performance enthusiasts either. The new RX 500h F Sport takes the CUV experience to a new level, bringing together its 271 horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four with an 80-kilowatt electric motor and direct rear-wheel inversion. Instantly responsive, the 450h produces a combined output of 366 horsepower and 406-foot pounds of torque while still achieving 27 miles per gallon.
Alone, the electric motor produces 35 miles of electric power, while the all-wheel drive system ensures that power hits immediately and evenly throughout the entire drivetrain.
HENDRICK LEXUS I HENDRICK LEXUS NORTHLAKE I HENDRICK LEXUS CHARLESTON I HENDRICK LEXUS KANSAS CITY I HENDRICK LEXUS KANSAS CITY NORTH I LEXUS of PLEASANTON
Goodies fill the F Sport Performance version. Adaptive Variable Suspension and specially designed McPherson front struts maximize cornering, while still giving passengers the smooth, seamless ride they expect from a luxury crossover. Braking-wise, lighter-weight, twin-piston calipers also bolster the F Sport’s sports car feel.
At slower speeds, the vehicle’s available dynamic rear steering system allows the CUVs front at rear wheels to turn in unison, allowing for an impressive four-degree steering angle for tighter maneuvers.
HENDRICKCARS.COM I SHOP INVENTORY I SCHEDULE SERVICE I HENDRICK CAREERS I BLOG
Centering Gravity Lower
One of the primary differences between an SUV and a CUV is their center of gravity. SUVs are traditionally top-heavy, whereas the RX crossover concept is more like a luxury sedan. Optimized proportions and a more dynamic shape give the vehicle a lower center of gravity. Available 19 and 21-inch wheels add to the look and feel.
Lexus also added aerodynamic upgrades, directing airflow more efficiently and helping with both handling and fuel mileage. Special black accents, piano black grille and 10 exterior color options further distinguish the F Sport’s exterior.
On the interior, the cockpit is oriented towards the driver, intuitively directing essentials and information. Gauging, heads-up display and critical controls are all within the forward sightline of the driver. The central console box is accessible by both front seat occupants, while two of the vehicle’s USB ports are easily usable as well.
Six interior colors and an indirect lighting system that features 64 colors and 14 themes add to the overall experience. Darkened side sills and steering wheel logos, along with optional red and black color schemes, give the F Sport models its distinct look.
HENDRICKCARS.COM I SHOP INVENTORY I SCHEDULE SERVICE I HENDRICK CAREERS I BLOG
Convenient Technology
A 9.8-inch touchscreen comes standard in every RX, while a 14-inch high-definition screen is also available. The display features interactive apps such as Apple Car Play or Android Auto, designed to mimic the experience many have with their smartphone technology. Drive Connect and a full-time “Intelligent Assistant” affords the driver numerous voice-recognition capabilities that operate items such as climate control, navigation and multimedia.
HENDRICK LEXUS I HENDRICK LEXUS NORTHLAKE I HENDRICK LEXUS CHARLESTON I HENDRICK LEXUS KANSAS CITY I HENDRICK LEXUS KANSAS CITY NORTH I LEXUS of PLEASANTON
Expanded features such as Remote Connect -- a subscription service where passengers can adjust the climate controls, vehicle lock and unlock and operational systems remotely -- Safety Connect and Service Connect each enhance the Lexus experience overall. Additional safety features include pedestrian detection, pre-collision warning, proactive driver assist, road sign detection, lane departure, lane tracing and intelligent high beam technology.
The new Lexus RX F Sport also comes with All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses radar and camera technology to keep the vehicle at a preset speed and distance, even in stop-and-go traffic. When the road clears, even from a stopping point, the vehicle resumes its preset pace.
HENDRICKCARS.COM I SHOP INVENTORY I SCHEDULE SERVICE I HENDRICK CAREERS I BLOG
AdChoices