The Lexus RX 350h, introduced in December 2022, represents the fifth generation of Lexus’s popular luxury crossover SUV. Positioned as a core model within the RX lineup, the 350h variant offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency and performance through its full hybrid powertrain. It slots into the range as the standard hybrid option, offering a more economical alternative to the RX 350 (non-hybrid) and the higher-performance RX 450h+. The RX 350h is built on the GA-K platform, shared with other Toyota and Lexus models, and is primarily targeted at buyers seeking a comfortable, refined, and technologically advanced SUV with a focus on reduced emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX V |
| Type (Engine) | 350h (246 Hp) Hybrid E-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | December, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | SULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156.4 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 259.2 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 182 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (1) | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 54 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (2) | 121 Nm (89.25 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 246 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 316 Nm @ 4300-4500 rpm (233.07 lb.-ft. @ 4300-4500 rpm) |
| Internal combustion engine power | 185 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.4 Hp/l |
| Internal combustion engine torque | 241 Nm @ 4300-4500 rpm (177.75 lb.-ft. @ 4300-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A25A-FXS |
| Engine displacement | 2487 cm3 (151.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.38 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 103.38 mm (4.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2021 kg (4455.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2608 kg (5749.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 587 kg (1294.11 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 838 l (29.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1308 l (46.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1585 kg (3494.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 453 kg (998.69 lbs.) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 207 mm (8.15 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340.11×27.94 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 340.11×18.03 mm |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The RX 350h utilizes Lexus’s fourth-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive system. At its heart is the A25A-FXS 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, employing a direct-injection and multi-port fuel injection system for optimized combustion. This engine produces 185 horsepower and 177.75 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a high compression ratio of 14:1 and utilizes a Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) system for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine is paired with two electric motors – a primary motor integrated with the e-CVT and a rear motor providing on-demand all-wheel drive. The front motor generates 182 hp and 199.14 lb-ft of torque, while the rear motor contributes 54 hp and 89.25 lb-ft of torque. The combined system output is 246 horsepower. The e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) seamlessly blends power from the engine and electric motors, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. The nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on cargo space.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 350h delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The e-CVT provides smooth, stepless acceleration, although it lacks the immediate response of a traditional automatic transmission. The combined output of the engine and electric motors provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds. The rear electric motor enhances traction, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the standard RX 350, the 350h offers improved fuel economy, but slightly less outright acceleration. The hybrid system prioritizes efficiency, often utilizing electric power at lower speeds and during gentle acceleration. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally seamless, though some drivers may notice a subtle change in engine note during heavier acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 350h typically comes well-equipped with standard features including Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (featuring Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control), a 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and premium synthetic leather upholstery. Higher trim levels add features such as a larger 14-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson premium sound system, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Available options include a head-up display, triple-beam LED headlights, and a digital rearview mirror.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 350h features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, tuned for comfort and stability. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride. All-wheel drive is standard, enhancing traction and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RX 350h has been well-received by critics and consumers alike, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Compared to the non-hybrid RX 350, the 350h offers significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. However, the 350h is typically more expensive than the RX 350. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the RX 350h stands out for its refined driving experience and Lexus’s reputation for reliability.
Legacy
The A25A-FXS engine and the Hybrid Synergy Drive system have proven to be reliable and durable in other Toyota and Lexus applications. The RX 350h is expected to maintain strong resale value due to Lexus’s reputation for quality and the growing demand for hybrid vehicles. While long-term reliability data is still emerging for the fifth-generation RX, the previous generations of RX hybrids have demonstrated excellent longevity, suggesting that the 350h will be a dependable and efficient SUV for years to come.
