Among all of the Lexus models, I have a special soft spot for the RX, it sits there somewhere between a fat sedan and a full sized SUV. I guess that's pretty much what defines the concept of a crossover but the Lexus RX somehow feels different, special, and more enjoyable to drive than a typical mass-market cookie-cutter crossover. With this new generation of the Lexus RX it clearly pushes more towards being a great looking sport wagon on the outside but a surprisingly large amount of practical cargo space on the inside. To test it out, we took Jim on his first road trip since before the pandemic - no easy feat when you consider he has to travel with an O2 concentrator, breathing machine, stand-up walker, and bariatric wheelchair. Surprisingly - and thankfully - everything fit into the back along with bags and gear for three adults!
To be completely honest I wasn't sure this car was going to work for this trip. While I've really enjoyed doing road trips in the fourth generation Lexus RX, that model felt more like a traditional crossover. This time though, I wasn't sure. Luckily I was wrong and even the interior space was good for three full-sized adults to be comfortable for 4-5 hours at a time while touring SW Michigan!
Interior and Exterior Design
The 2024 RX 500h F SPORT Performance exterior design showcases Lexus's latest styling evolution, centered around a seamless spindle grille that flows into an athletic body profile. The vehicle's proportions have been optimized to reflect its low center of gravity, while aerodynamic elements including flush window molding, a rear spoiler, and dimpled underbody covers enhance both efficiency and stability. The F SPORT Performance model distinguishes itself with exclusive 21-inch wheels wrapped in specially-developed Michelin® Pilot Sport® tires, along with model-specific front and rear bumpers and piano black accents. A standard panoramic glass moonroof crowns the exterior, which can be finished in any of 11 available colors, including premium options like Ultra White and Eminent White Pearl.
Inside, the RX's cabin architecture prioritizes a driver-focused layout while maintaining generous space for all occupants. A standard 12.3-inch multi-information display integrates seamlessly into the dashboard, accompanied by a 14-inch central touchscreen. The interior features detailed craftsmanship with six available color schemes and four distinct ornamentation styles. Key interior features include:
- 40/20/40 power split-folding rear seats
- Six USB ports throughout the cabin
- Available heated and ventilated seating
- Qi-compatible wireless charging
- Customizable 64-color ambient lighting system
F SPORT Performance models receive additional interior enhancements including sport seats with enhanced bolstering, aluminum pedal trim, and exclusive Rioja Red or Black interior themes. The cabin's ergonomic design includes thoughtful storage solutions, including a dual-access center console and a front cubby with sliding lid.
Technology and Safety
The RX 500h F SPORT Performance integrates a comprehensive suite of technology systems centered around the Lexus Interface platform. The standard 14-inch high-definition touchscreen serves as the primary interface for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle controls. The system incorporates cloud-based navigation with Google POI integration, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity, and an available 21-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound system utilizing Quantum Logic Surround technology.
The vehicle's safety architecture builds upon the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 platform, incorporating multiple active and passive safety features. The Pre-Collision System employs both camera and millimeter-wave radar to detect vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists, providing warnings and automatic emergency braking when necessary. The system also includes Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking. Advanced driver assistance features include All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist. Additional safety technologies include:
- Traffic Jam Assist with hands-free capability
- Advanced Park with Remote Park
- Safe Exit Alert
- Digital Key functionality
- Remote Connect services
While the lane-following system worked great to make this road trip more enjoyable and less stressful, one thing that continues to frustrate me with semi-hands-free systems is that I can't wear my polarized sunglasses to block glare while driving. This isn't an RX or even a Lexus thing ... pretty much all of these systems have a similar limitation right now since they depend on ensuring that your eyes stay on the road.
Regardless though, it's something you should be aware of if considering a Lexus with this system since it can be quite annoying and I couldn't figure out a way to turn off the warning chime.
Handling and Performance
The RX 500h F SPORT Performance's driving dynamics are built upon a sophisticated chassis system that begins with MacPherson front struts designed for precise turn-in response and linear handling characteristics. The rear utilizes a five-arm multi-link suspension setup that optimizes both handling precision and interior space efficiency. The Adaptive Variable Suspension system employs linear solenoid-type actuators to continuously adjust damping force based on driving conditions and road surfaces.
The model's brake system features opposed six-piston aluminum calipers paired with 15.74-inch front rotors, marking a 2.4-pound weight reduction compared to the components used in Lexus's LS and LC models. The Dynamic Rear Steering system provides up to 4 degrees of steering angle adjustment, operating in either the same or opposite direction as the front wheels depending on vehicle speed to enhance both high-speed stability and low-speed maneuverability.
The RX 500h's hybrid powertrain system combines a 271-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with a sophisticated electric drive system. The combustion engine works in conjunction with a six-speed automatic transmission and integrated Power Control Unit, while the rear axle features an 80-kW eAxle that incorporates both an inverter and electric motor. This hybrid system employs a high-output, low-resistance nickel-metal hydride battery to help deliver total system output of 366 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque.
Power delivery is managed through Lexus's DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system, which coordinates torque distribution between the front and rear axles in milliseconds. This sophisticated power management system provides immediate response to changing driving conditions while minimizing body movement for enhanced ride comfort. The integration of the rear eAxle with the primary hybrid drive unit creates a seamless power delivery system that maintains consistent performance across various driving scenarios.
A Great Car is About The Memories And Experiences
This was one of my favorite car reviews in a long while. Not just because the Lexus RX is a great vehicle - it is - but it hit everything right. Not only was it fun to drive, beautiful to look at, smooth to ride in, and big enough to be comfortable for three adults (a fourth would also have been good) - but we got people asking about it in parking lots.
This particular model, trim, and paint just gives off a special feeling that almost begs you to take a road trip somewhere fun.
That's what we did and the memories of showing Jim where we hope to be able to live one day soon will last for weeks and months ... likely years after the car goes back to the fleet manager.
With a price starting at $66,150 for the Lexus RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD, this is a relatively affordable for such a great car and I can't wait to take it on more adventures in the future!
