2021 Lexus RX

History/Overview

Lexus introduced the current, fourth-generation RX mid-sized crossover in 2016. This upscale model got a few updates last year, including refreshed styling.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2021, the RX adds a new Black Line Edition trim package for the entry-level RX 350.

Available Trims

Lexus offers the RX in a single trim that can be augmented with option packages. The base spec brings a five-seat interior, and an RX L adds a third row. RX 350 models use a 3.5L V6 engine, an eight-speed transmission and AWD; RX 450h is a hybrid that matches the V6 with electric motors and a continuously variable transmission and AWD.

Standard Features

RX’s standard exterior features include passive keyless entry, a power tailgate, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED taillights and daytime running lights, heated/power-adjustable side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and a rear spoiler.

Inside, you get push-button start, a touchpad infotainment interface with 8.0-inch touchscreen, a 12-speaker stereo, Apple and Android smartphone integration, a heated/leather-trimmed steering wheel with power adjustments, auto-dimming rearview mirror, eight-way power-adjustable heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, perforated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic A/C, and a 4.2-inch driver info display.

Every RX comes with a suite of driver assists comprising forward collision warning with automatic braking, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, tire pressure monitoring, automatic high beams, radar cruise control, and lane tracing assist.

RX 450h L models gain a 12.3-inch infotainment display with navigation, a 15-speaker stereo, wood steering wheel trim, upgraded leather upholstery, an acoustic windshield, a head-up display, 20-inch wheels, triple-beam LED headlights with auto leveling, LED fog lights, and upgraded taillights.

Key Options

Most of the RX’s option packages build on each other so that you accumulate features as you move up the line.

A Luxury package adds triple-beam LED headlights with auto-leveling, LED fog lights, parking sensors with rear cross traffic braking, navigation, 20-inch wheels, wood steering wheel trim, four-way lumbar support, 10-way adjustable front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, and lighted front scuff plates.

The new Black Line pack brings black 20-inch wheels, performance suspension dampers, Nuluxe upholstery, and black exterior accents.

F Sport Series 2 gets an adaptive variable suspension, and F Sport seats and wheels.

Executive package models add wireless smartphone charging, a head-up display, panoramic sunroof, surround view cameras, hands-free tailgate, and a 15-speaker stereo.

F Sport Series 3 combines the Series 2 and Executive packages.

The three-row RX 350 L offers the Executive package in six- and seven-seat versions with second-row captains’ chairs or bench seating, respectively.

Fuel Economy

Lexus’s fuel consumption estimates for the RX are 12.2/9.0 L/100 km (city/highway) for the RX 350, and 13.1/9.4 L/100 km in the larger RX 350 L. RX 450h ratings are 7.5/8.4 L/100 km in the standard model, and 8.1/8.4 for the RX 450h L.

Competition

The Lexus RX is among the more laid-back options in the mid-size luxury crossover class. It competes with sportier models like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Audi Q7, while other cross-shoppers include the Lincoln Nautilus, Buick’s Enclave, the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo’s XC90, and the Infiniti QX60.