Elevate your Journey with the Luxurious and Versatile Lexus RX

The Lexus RX is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by Toyota from 1998 to 2003, available in a 5-door, front-engine, front-wheel-drive, or front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout. The Lexus RX is a successor to the Toyota Harrier (XU60)  and this article explores the Lexus RX's four-generation evolution, highlighting key engine, feature, and body style developments since 1998. 

Lexus RX: XU10

From 1998 to 2003, the Lexus RX XU10 featured three engine options, 4-speed U140/F automatic transmission, improved snow mode traction, Pioneer sound system, Nakamichi customized system, Walnut wood interior, rear cargo area, LCD dashboard, and air conditioning. Toyota has updated the 2000 RX 300 model with safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and optional electronic stability program, along with revised headlights, taillights, and engine

Lexus RX: XU30

The Lexus RX 330, produced between 2003 and 2008, featured four engine options and a 5-speed U151E/F automatic CVT (hybrid) transmission. The second-generation models feature a sleeker body, LED taillamps, Golden Bird's Eye Maple or Walnut wood trim, dual-zone climate control, Mark Levinson premium sound system, DVD navigation, and heated seats. Toyota provides full safety and security for all RX models with eight standard airbags, vehicle stability control, an optional adaptive front-lighting system (AFS), HID headlamps, and a backup camera. Toyota introduced the RX 400h in 2004, featuring a unique front grille, round fog lights, LED taillights, and a hybrid information display navigation screen, powered by a 3.3 L gasoline V6 engine, similar to that of the RX 330 powered by a 208 hp and 268 hp for the Lexus Hybrid Drive. 

Lexus RX: AL10

The Lexus RX, launched in 2010, is powered by a 2.7 L I4 and 3.5 L V6 gasoline engine and can be equipped with 6-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission. The Lexus RX 350, the third generation, features a 3.5 L V6 engine, Active Torque Control all-wheel-drive, Electric Power Steering, and double-wishbone rear suspension for improved cargo handling. The RX 450h, a 20% more fuel-efficient vehicle, underwent a 2010 facelift featuring new head and taillamps, grilles, and LED running lights.

The new generation of the RX features an improved exterior design, SmartAccess interior with keyless entry, Bluetooth, power 10-way seats, multi-function display, VoiceBox Technologies, and a 15-speaker surround sound system. Toyota has enhanced the security features of its new RX models, including twin-chamber front and side passenger airbags, active headrests, Vehicle Stability Control, and Hill Assist Control. Toyota introduced the F sport in its third generation, featuring an 8-speed automatic transmission and a sporty interior. 

Lexus RX: AL20

The Lexus RX, introduced in 2016-present, is the fourth generation, featuring a Toyota K platform and a body resembling the Toyota Highlander (XU50). The Lexus RX offers three engine options: 2.0 L turbocharged gasoline engine in RX 200t/300 with a power output of 235 hp, 3.5 L V6 engine in RX 350 with a power output of 295 hp, and 3.5 L V6 hybrid engine in RX 450h with a power output of 259 hp, with 6-speed, 8-speed automatic, or sequential shift mode transmission.

The Lexus RX's fourth generation features a bolder Spindle Grille, a larger body, an increased wheelbase, and more interior room compared to previous generations. Toyota has enhanced the sporty appeal of the Lexus RX with features such as Adaptive Variable Suspension, an active anti-roll bar, twenty-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof.

Finally

The Lexus RX has been popular among buyers seeking luxury, reliability, and practicality in the mid-size SUV segment. It competes with other luxury SUVs like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. You can now check the latest or earlier models in the Lexus RX stocklist.