New Lexus RX Review

There are now four powertrains, allowing you to find a good fit for your luxury lifestyle. As the first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in the new Lexus lineup, the 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ in Phoenix stands out with an electric driving range of up to 37 miles. This luxury crossover achieves an impressive 83 miles per gallon-equivalent (mpg-e).

The RX 350h, equipped with a standard 2.4-liter four cylinder engine and hybrid drive, produces a robust 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid RX achieves impressive fuel economy. You can expect to earn up to 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

2026 Lexus RX 350 models feature a 275-horsepower engine with 317 lb-ft of torque. Driving enthusiasts who are looking for the ultimate treat will appreciate the 2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance. These Lexus SUVs merge a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with hybrid electric drive, yielding an exhilarating 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft. Lexus Direct4 AWD uses dual electric motors to intelligently distribute drive force between front and rear axles.

With its generational reboot, the 2026 Lexus RX in Phoenix gained inches where it really matters. This means more rear legroom, keeping your kids or adult passengers more comfortable.

This wider, longer build also means that the cargo area is bigger. It measures 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to a whopping 46.2 cubic feet when the second row is folded. It’s easier to access with its lowered loading height. If you choose the plug in hybrid (RX 500h), it comes with a power-fold second row.

If your focus is on performance, you’ll love Lexus dynamic rear steering. This feature allows the rear wheels to turn separately from the front wheels. An adaptive variable suspension helps take the bounce out of the ride and enhance the already luxury-level ride quality.

These two-row SUVs come with an extra-long 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid warranty. If you are interested in a third row of seats, you should check out the new Lexus TX 3 row SUV.

Style is emphasized throughout the cabin with classic and modern motifs in a cohesive design. High quality materials include Nuluxe faux leather, semi-aniline leather, textured fabric, and ultrasuede. Each adds soft touches to the interior. Ambient lighting offers numerous color choices and 14 themes for easy customization.

Phoenix AZ luxury car shoppers will love that the Lexus RX offers ventilated seats for the front and rear rows. That’s air-cooled comfort for everyone.

Of course, dual-zone automatic climate controls keep the air conditioning flowing to both rows. Watching over passenger health, an automatic recirculation mode may be triggered by a smog sensor.

Front seats are 8-way or 10-way power adjustable and offer memory features that allow you to enter and exit more easily. Drivers can find the perfect angle with the power-adjustable steering column. Reclining rear seats may be upgraded with power adjustments.

Top models have a panoramic glass roof and a Mark Levinson surround sound system with 21 speakers. For more information about trim levels and standard features, check out this extended Lexus RX review.

Teek Geeks will appreciate the array of connectivity features in every trim level of the new Lexus RX. The driver benefits from a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touch screen. Both feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Wireless charger is a new standard for 2026. A new digital gauge cluster is among the premium audio options.

WiFi Connect introduces an AT&T hotspot and Integrated Streaming, allowing direct linkage of Amazon Music or Apple Music to the system. The 14-inch multimedia system can maximize its efficiency with Drive Connect. This subscription provides Cloud Navigation, updates, and Destination Assist with live agents for navigation assistance.

Intelligent Assistant takes voice command capability to the next level. With a simple "Hey Lexus," the new RX driver can make requests, such as adjusting the air conditioning. For a stress-free driving experience, Traffic Jam Assist helps navigate busy highway traffic.

A Remote Starter, a Smart Key, and a Digital Key offer a seamless experience from approach to departure. Safe exit assist may activate the Digital Latch system to prevent children from stepping into the path of a moving vehicle.

Every Lexus RX model comes equipped with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System, encompassing front-end protection with forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and associated emergency braking. The system also includes intersection support, motorcycle detection, and an emergency driving-stop function.

Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) is a standard feature on all RX trims, functioning even when cruise control is off. PDA subtly applies brakes and/or steers to match prevailing conditions, ensuring a safe distance from other vehicles and gently braking if the driver approaches a curve too swiftly.

With Curve Speed Management, adaptive cruise control assists the 2026 Lexus RX through winding roads. Road Sign Assist strategically displays important information on the driver display and the available Head Up display.

Lane Tracing Assist offers gentle steering support when cruise control is activated, similar to the lane departure alert and lane keeping assist that function when cruise control is inactive.

The available Four Parallel View Monitor utilizes cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors to provide a complete view around the vehicle. Advanced Park leverages these features to autonomously maneuver the vehicle into both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.

If you want to see how these systems work, it’s easy at Earnhardt Lexus. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to demonstrate. Schedule a test drive at your Earnhardt Lexus dealership Phoenix AZ.