Where is the 2023 Lexus RX made?
|
After launching the all-new subcompact NX crossover in 2021 and the next gen full-size LX SUV in early 2022, Lexus has turned its attention to its North American bestseller, the mid-size RX SUV. Show The fifth generation 2023 RX represents a significant departure from the current model which has been in the lineup since 2015. From a completely reimagined design to new powertrains, tech features, trims and advanced safety kit, there’s a lot to unpack here. Before diving in, a few caveats: the reveal in Texas was static, so there are no driving impressions, and no pricing was announced. To reset, the 2023 RX model lineup is as follows:
With four powertrains:
Two things of note before going further: one, no information was revealed regarding the 450h+ and two, the three-row L model has been discontinued. Details were shared for the gas and gas-hybrid models, however, and they are as follows:
Because the 500h F Sport Performance is a new model, Lexus shared some details regarding its powertrain and standard equipment. The 2.4-litre turbo is paired a 6-speed automatic and a new (for Lexus) hybrid electric system that features an inverter and an electric motor that works in concert with a rear eAxle unit comprised of a high output electric motor, inverter, and reduction gearbox.
The DIRECT4 AWD system is also new, but not much was revealed about how it works just yet. As for model-specific design features, the 500h receives six-piston brake calipers, a mesh grille, unique front bumper, and 21-inch aluminum wheels. On the inside, there’s a slew of F Sport details, including a perforated leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, suede-trimmed door panels, F Sport scuff plate, leather seating, aluminum pedals, and more. Looking at the 2023 RX line overall, the one thing that really stands out is its exterior design. Compared to the outgoing car, which Lexus was kind enough to park beside a pre-production copy of the new 500h, the ’23 has a much sleeker and bolder look. Viewed from the front, the car now has a distinctive “nose”, with a hood that rises in the centre and redesigned LED headlights on its flanks. The signature Lexus spindle grille has been reshaped and integrated into a “spindle body design” where the grille and bodywork have a more seamless appearance. Detailed specs have yet to be released, but Lexus did say that the new car has a lower centre of gravity than its predecessor with a 60mm longer wheelbase and a rear overhang that is 60 mm shorter. To the naked eye, the new design also appears to have a lower roofline and a wider stance. From the rear, the RX carries forth design cues shared with its LX and NX siblings. Most noticeable to these eyes are the stretched Lexus wordmark and L-shaped taillights that run the length of the rear deck and wrap around the corners. Other exterior design highlights include standard 19-inch dark gray machined finished wheels, colour-keyed over fenders, and available 21-inch wheels. From a chassis standpoint, the ’23 RX rides on a new GA-K platform that is shared with the Toyota Highlander and Sienna. As a result, the new car is stiffer and lighter (up to 90 kg) than the outgoing model. Lexus also claims the GA-K platform produces a more refined ride that is quieter and offers more comfort. It also introduces a new rear multi-link suspension that is attached to a rigid high-torsion body frame. The benefit, according to Lexus, is more consistent suspension travel during acceleration, deceleration, and certain steering inputs.
As for the cabin, the RX follows a path set forth by the new NX, with the inclusion of an e-Latch system for its doors, multi-coloured illumination accents and new door trim options. Other available features include a panoramic glass roof and head-up display. Like the NX, the ’23 RX also receives the new Lexus Interface, and it can be outfitted with an optional 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display. The colour palette is broad both inside and out, with 10 exterior hues and six interior finishes that vary depending on grade. On the safety front, the ’23 RX receives Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a suite of advanced tech that can be ordered with Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support which includes a new Motorcycle Detection feature. Also included are All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Emergency Driving Stop System.
For the first time on the RX, Advanced Park is also available, which supports back-up parking and forward-facing parking, with the latter permitting forward-facing / back up exits. As with the current car, the 2023 RX (except for the 450h+) will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada’s Cambridge South plant in Cambridge, Ontario. The 2023 Lexus RX is slated to go on sale at the end of 2022. YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN...Whether it’s a first-drive feature from the sun-soaked California coast, a quick news story about an off-road pickup that may (or may not) be coming to your local dealership or a review of a hot new sports sedan, somewhere Lee Bailie is writing about cars and car culture, something he’s been doing for almost a decade. A car guy to the core, he went on his first automotive plant tour at age seven. Will there be a new Lexus RX in 2023?Lexus has introduced a fully redesigned RX for the 2023 model year. The midsize SUV enters its fifth generation with a new design, new engines, a performance-oriented model with a new hybrid powertrain, and a new plug-in hybrid RX450h+ model. Consumers will also find a redesigned interior, along with new tech features.
Is Lexus RX Made in Japan?A majority of Lexus models are made in the brand's three production plants in Japan. All models except for the ES, RX and RX Hybrid are produced in Japan. Lexus has a plant in Lexington, Kentucky, that produces its ES model. Meanwhile, the RX and RX Hybrid are manufactured at the brand's plant in Cambridge, Ontario.
Where is the Lexus 350 RX built?Cambridge, Ontario, Canada is home to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. This plant is responsible for the Lexus RX and RX hybrid. Finally, the US home to Lexus is Georgetown, Kentucky, United States.
Is the rx350 Made in Japan?Most Lexus models are assembled in Japan, but there is one plant in Cambridge and one in Lexington, Kentucky. Here's which RX configurations are made at the Cambridge and Kyushu plants: Cambridge, Ontario, Canada: RX and RX Hybrid. Kyushu, Japan: RX, RX L, and [RX L Hybrid]
|
