The Lexus RX and Toyota Highlander look similar on paper. The two SUVs are similar in size and use some similar powertrains. Both are tall, large SUVs that seat many people and can be ordered with two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. While the new 2023 RX and the 2023 Highlander are related, they are not the same.
The new 2023 Lexus RX is not based on a Highlander
For 2023, Lexus has completely redesigned the RX. It’s part of Lexus’ new goal to make SUVs and cars less boring, and with the new 367-horsepower RX 500h F Sport Performance version, it’s likely to succeed. It uses the latest version of Toyota’s GA-K platform, which is shared with the RAV4.
The Highlander was the last new model for the 2019 model year. The Highlander, however, is based on the closely related but different TNGA-K platform. This is shared with some larger cars and SUVs. Powering a wide variety of Toyota and Lexus vehicles, both platforms are designed for a multitude of different uses, while keeping costs low. The upcoming Lexus TX will share more with the Highlander than the RX.
By 2023, the RX and Highlander are two different vehicles
The previous generations of Highlander and RX were more closely related than the current two. The new RX is completely different for 2023, while the Highlander continues with just a few changes for 2023. For 2023, the Highlander will get a more refined engine. Instead of the old V6, it gets a new turbocharged four-cylinder with 265 horsepower. Although it has less horsepower, its increased torque means more power as you step on the pedal. It also means the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
In the Platinum trim, though, the Highlander’s $49,075 price tag certainly puts it in Lexus RX territory. But the Highlander has one big advantage over the RX: The Highlander seats seven. For 2023, the Grand Highlander will also debut, which is an even longer version that adds some critical space in the rear so real adults can use the third row. The Highlander Hybrid version is also popular, accounting for 25% of Highlander sales, according to Forbes.
What’s new for the 2023 Lexus RX?
Lexus redesigned the RX for 2023 with new sheet metal and more. Lexus is making the RX a more performance-oriented SUV. For the first time, Lexus will build an RX500h F Sport version of the RX. The new 500h combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with two electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear. F is the Lexus performance level.
The result is 367 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds. The F Sport also adds Lexus’ high-performance adaptive variable suspension and a new all-wheel-drive system. But there will also be some more pedestrian (and affordable) versions, including the RX 350 and 350H, or the hybrid version.