2026 Lexus RX Review

The 2026 Lexus RX 350 delivers confident acceleration with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This powerplant produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission keeps shifts smooth and responsive. Front-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive adds capability for $1,600. The RX 350 price starts at $51,175 MSRP, making it the entry point to the lineup. Fuel economy estimates reach 22 city and 29 highway mpg with front-wheel drive. This turbocharged setup balances everyday usability with enough power for highway merging and confident passing.

Looking for better fuel efficiency? The RX 350h hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for 246 combined horsepower. The Lexus RX 350h price begins at $53,475 MSRP with standard all-wheel drive. This hybrid achieves an impressive 37 city and 34 highway mpg. The continuously variable transmission provides seamless power delivery. 

For those who want more performance, the RX 500h combines a turbocharged engine with hybrid components for 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It's nearly as efficient as the 350h but considerably quicker. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offers 304 horsepower and an EPA-rated 37 miles of electric-only range. This PHEV now comes in a more affordable Premium trim for 2026. Every RX is backed by Lexus' generous 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing long-term confidence.

The midsize SUV segment has plenty of competition, but the RX stands out with its distinctive design. The spindle body creates a sleek, athletic profile with a low center of gravity. Up front, the seamless grille commands attention without looking overdone. Available 19-inch or 21-inch wheels add visual presence. The single-lens taillamps wrap around the rear, emphasizing the wide stance. F SPORT models bring even more aggressive styling with unique bumpers and black trim. The new Appearance Package for 2026 includes black 21-inch wheels and orange brake calipers. Every angle of this luxury crossover shows careful attention to proportion and detail.

Step inside and you'll find a cabin that lives up to the luxury SUV promise. The tiered dashboard flows seamlessly into the door panels. High-quality materials cover nearly every surface you touch. Six interior color options range from sophisticated Black to warm Rioja Red. Real wood or aluminum trim adds character depending on the grade. The front seats offer heating and available ventilation. Second-row passengers get generous legroom for adults. 

Cargo capacity measures 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 46.2 cubic feet with them folded. An ambient lighting system with 64 colors and 14 themes lets you set the mood. Premium and higher trims add a moonroof for an airy feel.

With Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is a comprehensive suite that includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection. Automatic emergency braking can intervene if you don't react in time. The system even watches for oncoming vehicles during left turns. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from traffic ahead at all speeds. Lane-tracing assist helps keep you centered in your lane. Road sign recognition displays speed limits and other signs on your instrument cluster. Emergency steering assist can help you avoid obstacles. Automatic high beams switch between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic.

Beyond the core safety suite, every RX includes blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Front and rear parking sensors make tight spaces easier to navigate. Safe exit assist can warn rear passengers about approaching traffic before opening doors. Available features include a 360-degree camera system that provides a bird's-eye view. 

Advanced park assist can handle parallel and perpendicular parking with minimal input. Low-speed Traffic Jam Assist represents a hands-free option for stop-and-go highway driving. The 2025 RX earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. These systems work together to provide confidence whether you're navigating Scottsdale streets or Phoenix highways.

The 2026 Lexus RX keeps you connected with modern technology. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displays key information right in your sight line. The central 9.8-inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties, with a larger 14-inch screen available. The interface responds quickly to inputs. 

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard for seamless smartphone integration. New for 2026, wireless phone charging is standard across all trims. No more fumbling with cables. Six USB ports throughout the cabin keep devices powered. A 12-speaker premium audio system delivers clear sound, while a 21-speaker Mark Levinson system is available for audiophiles.

Beyond entertainment, the RX offers several connected services. A Wi-Fi hotspot lets passengers stream and browse. Remote Connect lets you lock, unlock, and start the RX from your smartphone. You can even use your phone as a digital key on equipped models. Drive Connect includes cloud navigation and a voice-activated assistant. Navigation updates over the air, so you always have current maps. These features make the midsize luxury SUV experience more convenient.

Modern driver assistance makes every trip easier. Traffic Jam Assist can take over steering, braking, and acceleration in slow highway traffic. Proactive driving assist provides gentle steering and braking inputs to help you maintain safe distances. The system can even help with obstacle avoidance. Adaptive cruise control works at all speeds, making it useful in both highway and city driving. It smoothly adjusts your speed based on traffic flow. Lane-keeping assist provides subtle corrections if you drift toward lane markers.

The 2026 RX lineup includes seven distinct grades. Standard trim delivers an impressive baseline with 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, and heated seats. Premium adds a moonroof, heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. Premium+ includes the larger 14-inch touchscreen and upgraded lighting. Luxury grade brings semi-aniline leather, a panoramic moonroof, and the Mark Levinson audio system. F SPORT Design adds sporty styling with black 21-inch wheels and unique bumpers. F SPORT Handling includes adaptive suspension for sharper handling. F SPORT Performance pairs the powerful 500h hybrid powertrain with sport-tuned dynamics.

Different trims serve different priorities. Daily commuters might prefer Premium for its comfort features. Families may gravitate toward RX Luxury trims for maximum refinement. Enthusiasts will appreciate the F SPORT variants. The new Premium grade on the 450h+ plug-in adds more technology and amenities. The Appearance Package brings blacked-out styling for F SPORT buyers. With this many combinations of powertrains and trims, you can truly customize your luxury crossover. When you're ready to explore your options, financing solutions can help make the RX that fits your lifestyle more attainable.

The 2026 Lexus RX proves that a midsize luxury SUV can excel in multiple areas. Four powertrains mean you don't have to choose between efficiency and performance. Standard safety technology provides peace of mind. The refined interior creates a relaxing environment. Advanced connectivity keeps you linked to what matters. Whether you need room for the family or simply want a comfortable daily driver, the RX delivers. The combination of reliability, luxury, and versatility explains why this model remains so popular.

The 2026 models are arriving soon at Earnhardt Lexus in Scottsdale. We invite North Scottsdale and Phoenix-area drivers to visit and experience the RX firsthand. A test drive reveals how the different powertrains feel and which trim level suits you best. Schedule a test drive.

Our team can walk you through the available inventory and discuss financing options that fit your budget. Discover why the Lexus RX continues to define what a luxury crossover should be.