Along with the second-gen NX, Lexus is working on a mid-cycle refresh for the fifth-gen RX, which broke cover in May 2022. The BMW X5 rival is expected to receive this update in the U.S. next year.
Here’s everything we know and expect from the new Lexus RX:
Design
In line with Lexus’ familiar approach to mid-cycle refreshes, the fifth-gen RX’s exterior is likely to stay largely faithful to the current design. While cosmetic revisions are expected around the vehicle, a major character change is unlikely, and spy shots of early prototypes support that view.
The Lexus RX facelift will likely have tweaked headlamp graphics and a newly designed bumper at the front. Lexus transitioned from the signature ‘spindle grille’ to a ‘spindle body’ for the RX when it redesigned the model for its fifth generation.
It will likely further steer away from the original direction with the upcoming refresh, bringing an even more sophisticated architecture that doesn’t look like a traditional grille.
On the sides, the only thing new in terms of design will likely be the wheels. In the U.S., Lexus should give multiple new wheel options in 19- and 21-inch sizes.
The rear-end will likely incorporate changes such as a revised bumper and bolder tail lamp graphics. Lexus may also offer some new paint options to further distinguish the new RX from the current model, but we don’t expect an overhaul in the looks department.
Interior
Spy shots suggest Lexus is redesigning the dashboard of the RX to give it a sleeker and more low-profile look.
The driver-facing section of the dashboard may no longer be angled toward the driver in the RX. Lexus may also visually separate the 12.3-inch instrument cluster from the 14.0-inch infotainment screen, giving the dashboard a cleaner, more horizontal look, like the new ES Hybrid.
Both the instrument cluster and infotainment system are likely to be new units with updated software. The latter may not integrate climate control and volume knobs into the display like in the current model.
Lexus should use touch-operated buttons for the climate control system and embed them into the dashboard, on the flanks of a knurled scroller to adjust the volume.
Specifications
Lexus offers three electrified variants for the current RX: 246 hp 350h hybrid, 366 hp 500h hybrid, and 304 hp 450h+ plug-in hybrid. The 350h and 450h+ variants have a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, while the 500h variant sports a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.
Toyota introduced a redesigned RAV4 for MY26 with hybrid and plug-in hybrid upgrades. Since Toyota and Lexus share powertrain technology, the new RAV4 offers a useful indication of what could be in store for the new RX.
Hybrid
The redesigned RAV4 Hybrid uses Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, which includes a reworked transaxle, power control unit, and battery. These updates increased output without compromising efficiency.
If Lexus adopts a similar system for the next RX 350h, it could retain the same basic layout, combining a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, while delivering slightly more power and improved real-world fuel economy.
Plug-in Hybrid
Toyota recently introduced its sixth-generation plug-in hybrid system in the redesigned RAV4, and the next RX 450h+ could use a version of this setup.
In the RAV4, the new system includes a larger battery, a more powerful onboard charger, and DC fast-charging capability for the first time. The current RX 450h+ does not support DC fast charging.
If Lexus follows a similar approach, the RX 450h+ battery capacity could increase from 18.1 kWh to around 22.7 kWh. It could also support DC fast charging at up to 50 kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes.
The EPA-estimated electric range could rise from the current 38 miles to around 45 miles, while total system output would increase as well.
Price & Release Date
The prices of the facelifted Lexus RX’s hybrid variants could range from around USD 56,000 to approximately USD 69,000. Its plug-in hybrid could be priced between around USD 68,000 and approximately USD 75,000.
We expect Lexus to release official information about the updated RX by early 2027.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
