The 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is the most interesting version of the best-selling mid-size luxury SUV. The package is going to be even more interesting when the all-new vehicle hits dealerships. The company announced the update, including the powertrains we expect, as well as the trim levels. The F Sport Performance is a new member of the lineup, and we can’t wait to see what the RX is going to look like. Well, this upgrade is available for the hybrid RX 500h configurations.
All the versions are going to feature enhanced Lexus Safety System 3.0, Direct4 AWD, and the new infotainment system that supports more options. Six packages are ready for the all-new RX. Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F Sport and the F Sport Performance are trim levels that will be available for the RX lineup. A turbocharged four-pot engine is the main source of power. All the versions with the RX 350 badge will use it, including the F Sport. The other two options are hybridized.
The 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport is not the performance version. Yes, it enhances the look and the ride, but not the specifications. The outputs might get a minor boost, but it is nothing compared to some rivals, such as BMW X5 and the M model, or Audi Q7 with the SQ package.
Engine and Specs
As expected, the new generations of mid-size SUVs are dropping a V6 engine. First, the company did it with the Toyota Highlander, and now the Lexus RX is also replacing a 3.5-liter engine with a turbo-four setup. A 2.4-liter gasoline unit is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It sends power to all wheels, not only for the 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, but also for the entire lineup. The turbocharged engine is producing 275 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque.
We are still expecting the gas mileage from EPA. The manufacturer claims the entry-level engine can go 24 mpg combined. The RX will need more than 7 seconds to hit 60 mph from a stop. The F Sport model might be able to do it a bit faster.
New F Sport Configuration: 500h Performance
Toyota is electrifying the entire lineup. Standard configurations are still available, but the focus is on hybrids. A setup centered around a 2.5-l engine is going to produce 246 hp and 233 lb-ft. The carmaker is sacrificing power to gain extra mileage. The RX 350h hybrid can return 33 mpg. A CVT gearbox is a power router.
The 2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance is the new member of the lineup. A 2.4-liter turbo engine is getting support from electric batteries to enhance everything on the specs sheet. The plug-in hybrid is good for 367 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, increases the gas mileage to 26 mpg and cuts down the time needed for the 0-60 mph acceleration under 6 seconds. Plus, it features a special AWD system called Direct4. A six-pace auto transmission is mated to the hybrid engine.
2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport Colors and Other Accessories
The redesign of the entire lineup means the options through packages will be reshuffled. There are no details about the base version of the 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport, but we assume it will share some styling solutions with the 500h Performance edition. For example, the mesh grille makes the appearance more aggressive. Another standard option for the F Sport bundles will be a set of 21-inch wheels. A more powerful 500h edition also features six-piston brake calipers.
Inside, as its name suggests, and as we got used to it, everything is sportier. Perforated leather covers the seats and steering wheel. Suede-trimmed door trims are always a cool addition. The F Sport badges around the cabin are also there. One of the main upgrades is the Safety 3.0 system, with the driver-oriented approach. The SUV comes with a pedestrian alert, pre-collision alert, cruise control with curve speed management, and steering assist with lane departure alert. Optionally, you can add advanced park assist.
There are six standard themes for the interior: Macadamia, Black, Birch, Palomino, Peppercorn and Rioja Red. Some of those will be available for the 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport. The company also offers ornamentation styles: Black Cascade, Ash Bamboo, Black Open Pore and Dark Graphite Aluminum.
When Will 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport Be Available?
All the announced versions of the luxury SUV are coming out at the same time. The vehicle is in the final phases of launching since the company already made an official statement. Many details are already available, and we see the 2023 Lexus RX 350 F Sport and 500h F Sport as stars of the lineup. The price goes up compared to the previous edition, especially for the plug-in hybrid system. Precise pricing will be known when the SUV is officially launched for sales.
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