The sportiest RX has returned for 2025 with a brand new restricted version referred to as Black Line. It builds on the F Sport Efficiency 3 Bundle with a blacked-out physique package, black five-spoke wheels flanked by orange brake callipers, distinction inside stitching, black ground and cargo mats, and illuminated door sills. Black Line prices simply shy of $3,000 over the FSP3 mannequin. Whether or not that’s price it’s extremely subjective however the underlying exhausting product continues to be a powerful piece of package.
The RX 500h ranks as the costliest and essentially the most highly effective RX within the secure however don’t be fooled. The IS 500 F Sport Efficiency may need you consider there’s a V8 underneath the entrance hood with its comparable naming schedule however as a substitute, there’s a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a battery and electrical motor. It produces a mixed 367 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque by a 6-speed automated gearbox and is the powertrain of alternative for individuals who want a responsive and fascinating SUV, however that is no BMW X5.
A fast stab of the go-fast pedal is met with near-instant acceleration. There’s sufficient accessible torque to really feel concerned and rewarded within the low and mid-sections of the powerband the place we are inclined to spend nearly all of our time, and the Direct4 all-wheel drive system ensures optimum grip on all surfaces. The 6-speed automated transmission is a curious alternative as most of its opponents now use extra environment friendly 8-speeds however might be the one one within the Toyota elements bin that matches with this hybrid setup. It’s clean, refined, and extra importantly, quiet. We’d take this over these brash and whiny CVTs any day of the week.
The RX 500h emits an aggressive and thrilling roar underneath extensive open throttle, one thing we’re not used to from a Lexus SUV. We’re conscious that a lot of it’s pretend synthesized noise piped in by the cabin audio system nevertheless it’s nonetheless thrilling to listen to such a melodic notice accompanying the punchy acceleration. The exhaust noises within the RX 500h are eerily much like the notes produced by the 5.0-litre V8 engine within the Lexus IS 500.
Whereas it’s the quickest RX hybrid we’ve pushed, we had been dissatisfied with its general gasoline economic system, as our metropolis and freeway driving averaged 10.8 L/100km. That’s first rate in comparison with non-hybrid SUVs of this measurement however we anticipated extra from our previous experiences with Lexus hybrids. The reason being that the powertrain is tuned to maintain the engine operating for optimum pace and efficiency, and is usually unwilling to slide into EV mode. The RX 500h prioritizes clean transitions and full of life acceleration as a substitute and solely shifts into EV mode when totally stopped or when the battery is nearly totally charged. The 6-speed gearbox might be partly accountable as properly, as torque converters aren’t typically as environment friendly as CVTs. Annoyingly, the RX 500h requires 91-octane gasoline too, which dumps salt on the wound of those that sought a hybrid to avoid wasting most {dollars} on the fuel station. The gasoline tank isn’t very massive both, with our vary hovering on the 500 km mark after a fill-up.
The RX 500h rides properly, layered with an underlying firmness like within the outgoing RX. It neutralizes minor oscillations fairly successfully and is compliant and comfy general. Nonetheless, it takes a second or two to settle and stabilize after hitting bigger bumps. It doesn’t supply the identical form of driver engagement or street safety as a BMW X5 nor does it gel with a winding street or discover concord in tackling corners at greater speeds. It’s extra of a calming SUV with a pointy edge to take out occasionally.
Draped in a contemporary coat of Incognito paint (the identical shade supplied within the IS 500) with contrasting orange callipers, the RX seems extra masculine than the rose gold instance we drove again in 2023. This beluga whale’s entrance finish matches the fetching rear and its full-width mild bar, accentuating its dimensions and bigger silhouette.
The inside is comparatively clear and uncluttered. The middle console is extensive and expansive, housing adjustable-depth cupholders and a mini gear lever borrowed from the LC Coupe. Storage choices are plentiful with a hidden wi-fi cellphone charging pad and USB-C shops. A large and vibrant touchscreen is perched on the dashboard and now handles each operate from the local weather controls to the driving modes. We nonetheless have dials for the temperature and audio quantity, and it’s a pleasant enchancment over the fussy system from earlier than and its mousepad. It sports activities a reasonable studying curve however those that want a extra acquainted interface will discover wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto loaded in.
As anticipated, the construct high quality within the RX is superb with not a free sew or panel hole in place. The doorways are electrically operated like within the NX and are engaged with simply the push of a button on the interior and outer door levers. The steering wheel is much less chunky and obstructive than earlier than – the rim circumference is far thinner and feels sporty to know.
The steering column permits a fantastic vary of changes to cater to all driving positions, however we’re unsure how these haptic contact sensors on the steering wheel have made it into manufacturing. There are touchpads on all sides however they’re not labelled. You solely uncover what they function while you contact the pad and look on the driver’s show. As soon as there, you may click on the secondary button under it to alter the web page of what operate the buttons are paired to.
There’s additionally a clumsy delay, which means in the event you press the pad, it gained’t register something. It’s important to contact it first and let the show acknowledge your enter, and solely after a second press will it’s submitted. This turns into irritating while you need to rapidly change a track or flip the driving force’s gauge show. It doesn’t matter how a lot time you’ve spent making an attempt to beat the educational curve both. We’d say it’s worse than the flimsy touchpads within the outgoing Mercedes fashions. Japanese electronics are sometimes essentially the most ergonomic, logical, and practical items of package you should purchase however we’re unsure the place this idea was conceived and finalized.
Whereas not essentially the most comfy, strongest, and even essentially the most environment friendly SUV in its phase, the RX 500h remains to be a well-rounded and well-mannered household hauler that delivers the trusted and dependable Lexus expertise that one would anticipate from the model. Together with wonderful acceleration, improved dealing with with the 4-wheel-steering system, and thrilling exhaust noises to match, we’ve come out impressed however scratching our heads at why Lexus didn’t make investments extra right into a hot-rod RX with their off-the-shelf 5.0-litre V8 and technical know-hows from their GT3 packages and RC F learnings. As a result of we will’t discover many wise causes to advocate the RX 500h over the extra environment friendly and cheaper RX 350h. Possibly the world simply isn’t prepared for that form of RX.
Specs:
Mannequin: 2025 Lexus RX 500h Black Line Version
Paint Sort: Incognito
Base Value: $82,239
Value as Examined: $90,874
Wheelbase(mm): 2,850
Size/Width/Top (mm): 4,890 / 1,920 / 1,710
Curb weight (kg): 2,155
Engine: 2.4-litre turbocharged inline-four cylinder, electrical motor
Horsepower: 367 mixed hp
Torque: 406 mixed lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automated
Engine & Drive Configuration: Entrance engine, AWD
Noticed Gasoline Consumption (L/100km): 10.8
