2023 Lexus RX 450h+

The midsize Lexus RX crossover SUV is the automaker's top-selling model in the U.S., outselling the runner-up model, the smaller NX crossover, nearly 2-to-1. You'd think Lexus might tread cautiously with an all-new redesign of its cornerstone model, but that doesn't look like the case here. Lexus has doubled down on the RX's exaggerated trapezoidal grille shape with a flatter, more upright design that wouldn't look out of place on a Tundra pickup.

This new fifth-generation RX is the same size as the previous generation model, but Lexus says it's a bit lighter and offers more rear legroom and cargo space inside. On the outside, the 2023 RX has a similar look to the previous model. The most noticeable change is that Lexus replaced the top half of the previous hourglass-style grille with a body-colored panel that extends the hood line.

As before, this new RX will compete against other midsize luxury SUVs such as the Acura MDX, BMW X5 and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The RX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid. That means it can drive short distances on all-electric power before switching over to regular hybrid operation with its gasoline engine. At the time of our review's publication, however, Lexus had not provided any information on what kind of plug-in hybrid powertrain the RX 450h+ will have.

We do expect it will be more powerful than the 2023 RX 350h, which has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system that combine to produce a total of 246 horsepower. We wouldn't be surprised if the RX 450h+ ends up having the same powertrain as its smaller Lexus counterpart, the NX 450h+. That vehicle has a plug-in hybrid system that produces 302 hp and can drive about 37 miles on a fully charged battery.

The RX interior gets a comprehensive overhaul, with all the usual Lexus luxury touches appearing in place: perforated leather upholstery, contrast stitching, wood trim and brushed metal accents. The most obvious change is in the center console, where a large touchscreen floats above thin horizontal air vents, replacing the narrower widescreen display of the previous RX.

Notably, Lexus has finally done away with the touchpad controller that made the user interface so clunky and difficult to interact with in last year's model. This new touchscreen is similar to the units we've tested in several newer Toyota and Lexus products — including the new Toyota Tundra and Lexus NX 350. While it's not eminently user-friendly, it is significantly easier to navigate around the menus than the RX's previous interface.

An updated bundle of safety technologies, called Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, is also included. It adds new features and enhances existing features such as pedestrian detection, intersection support (alerts if the system detects a possible collision while the vehicle's making a left turn through an intersection), motorcyclist detection, adaptive cruise control that can slow down for curves, and a self-parking system that can reverse into perpendicular parking spaces.

Lexus is launching the redesigned RX with the 350, 350h and 500h models first. The plug-in 450h+ will come out later, although Lexus has not been any more specific than that as of our review's publication. It's even possible it won't come out until the 2024 model year.

Bolder styling diminishes the RX's formerly more subtle, sophisticated design, but updated infotainment and driver safety features will help the RX keep pace with its European luxury rivals. The RX 450h+'s plug-in hybrid system could also be appealing, though we'll need to wait until Lexus provides official information to know for sure.