Lexus launched the RX SUV in India in April last year, but the company has begun deliveries of the range-topping 500h F Sport variant only now; Lexus was only delivering the entry-level 350h variant. until now. The RX 500h is priced at Rs 1.18 crore (ex-showroom), which has remained unchanged since launch.
- RX 500h is powered by a 2.4-litre petrol-hybrid engine
- Sprints from 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds (claimed)
- Gets sportier styling over the 350h variant
Lexus RX 500 F Sport powertrain
The RX500h F-Sport+ gets a 2.4-litre turbo-petrol engine paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. In combination with the e-motor, it produces 371hp and 460Nm of torque, and all-wheel drive tech helps it do the 0-100kph dash in 6.2 seconds (claimed) and go on to a claimed top speed of 210kph. Lexus uses a bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery in the new RX. It also gets rear wheel steering.
Lexus RX 500h F Sport exterior, interior and features
The RX500h gets the F-Sport body kit that has some visual differences over the 350h; the latter gets chrome accents on the outside, while the F-Sport gets piano black accents. The front bumper additionally features larger air intakes and the black, 21-inch alloy wheels have a different design. However, the interiors don't have this differentiation.
In terms of equipment, the RX 500h F-Sport gets a 14-inch touchscreen, an electronic latch for the doors, connected car features, wireless charger, wireless Apple CarPlay – Android Auto is wired – and a panoramic sunroof. Safety kit includes 7 airbags, dynamic radar-based cruise control, an anti-collision warning system and a safe door opening system, among others.
The Lexus RX rivals the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Range Rover Velar and Audi Q7.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
