Lexus RX Facelift Previewed: New PHEV Powertrain and Design Upgrades Expected

Lexus is gearing up for a significant update to its popular RX luxury SUV, with a facelifted model anticipated to debut in the first half of 2027. Spy shots from the Nürburgring test track have confirmed that the RX will receive styling revisions, primarily focused on the front fascia.

Japanese media outlet "Goo-Net," based on these sightings, has rendered an image of the updated RX. The facelift is expected to incorporate a redesigned grille and front bumper, aligning the RX's aesthetics with Lexus's current family design language, similar to the ES model. Inside, the cabin is predicted to mirror the modern layout found in the ES and TZ models, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by the latest Arene OS, promising enhanced technological convenience.

Under the hood, the powertrain lineup is set to undergo changes. Lexus plans to phase out purely gasoline variants, focusing instead on Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) options. Notably, the new PHEV system will adopt the same 2.5-liter unit found in the current RAV4 PHEV. This powertrain is expected to deliver a combined output of 329 horsepower and offer an electric-only driving range of 135 kilometers, surpassing the current RX 450h+ in both performance and fuel efficiency.

The updated RX aims to maintain its competitive edge in the luxury SUV segment by offering a blend of refined styling, advanced technology, and improved eco-friendly performance. The focus on electrification, particularly with the enhanced PHEV system, signals Lexus's commitment to its hybrid strategy while meeting evolving consumer demands for efficiency and sustainability.