Lexus has a unique place in the luxury car market. While it may not be as prestigious as German brands due to its association with Toyota, that same connection makes Lexus appealing to buyers who value performance and reliability. The Lexus RX is a perfect example of this philosophy.
Technical specifications and differences with RAV4
The Lexus RX is essentially an upgraded version of the Toyota RAV4. In plug-in hybrid form, it uses the same engine as the RAV4 Plug-in, but its power has been increased to 304 horsepower. That means you get all the reliability of America's most popular crossover in a more attractive package.
Price and purchase value
These improvements come at a price. The cheapest RX Plug-in Hybrid is almost $20,000 more expensive than the base RAV4 Plug-in. But it's money well spent. As long as you avoid the F Sport trim, the RX has a smooth ride and handles well on most surfaces without disrupting the cabin.
Interior design and user experience
The interior design focuses more on functionality than aesthetics. While it may not be as attractive as a new BMW or Mercedes-Benz, the presence of physical buttons instead of large screens offers a better user experience. Having real buttons for important functions is much better than searching through a touchscreen.
Controls and displays
Unfortunately, most of the climate controls have been moved to the bottom of the 14-inch screen, but there are still physical buttons for adjusting the temperature and volume. The controls on the steering wheel are also real buttons, although the two pads on each side are unlabeled. Placing a finger on each one activates a function in the heads-up display that provides a map for each button.
Cabin comfort and space
The rest of the cabin is impeccable. The driver's seat is well-adjustable, allowing people of all body types to find their ideal position. The digital instrument panel is easy to read and displays all the necessary information, including the range of motion in all-electric mode.
Driving experience
The steering is light and smooth, as are the brake and accelerator pedals. There's plenty of room for adults in the back seats, and the cargo space is decent. A thoroughly satisfying experience, without thrills, but for those looking for a thrill in their driving, the BMW is a better option.
Conclusion
Overall, the 2025 Lexus RX is a combination of comfort, reliability, and simplicity that makes it an ideal choice for buyers looking for luxury without the flash.
