2022 Lexus RX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Available with two or three rows of seating, the 2022 Lexus RX offers tremendous versatility for families in the United States. This midsize crossover SUV has an abundance of luxurious amenities, including a tri-zone HVAC system and gorgeous interior appointments. From the 12.3-inch multimedia display to the 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, this upscale Lexus model is available with scores of high-tech objects. Smartphone users will love the Lexus App, Lexus Enform services, Bluetooth and other connectivity options.

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 Lexus RX has been upgraded with an array of captivating exterior colors! Choose from the shimmering Iridium and Cloudburst Gray, or opt for a sporty Grecian Water finish if you get one of their F Sport trims. For something even more exclusive, go all-in on the Black Line Special Edition to indulge in its unique black open-pore wood decoration and distinctive stitching that elevate this already luxurious car interior.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Lexus RX – The Pros

1. Powerful V-6 Engine

Standard under the hood of the 2022 RX, a 3.5-liter engine block whips out a total of 295 horsepower. Consisting of six cylinders in a V-shaped formation, the naturally aspirated powerplant develops 268 pound-feet of torque. This 24-valve powertrain takes advantage of the Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-iW) design for enhanced precision and efficiency. Engineered to burn unleaded gasoline, the V-6 powerplant supports a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The optional Towing Prep Package adds an oil-based cooling system for the engine and a heavy-duty radiator with quicker cooling.

2. Efficient Hybrid Powertrain

Set to launch in 2022, Lexus has upped the ante with their RX crossover SUV. This luxurious vehicle is powered by a hybrid system that combines two electric motors and its standard 3.5-liter gasoline engine for 308 horsepower of commanding performance when pushed to its limits. Drivers can expect up to 31 MPG per gallon on city roads and 28 mpg on highways as certified under EPA standards - not just power but plenty range too at 540 miles owing from an impressive 17.2-gallon fuel tank capacity! To boot, drivers have access exclusively within this model family: EV Mode which enables them short distances rides running purely off electrical battery juice – granting a new era of smooth thrilling drives mere moments away!

3. Agile and Consistent Handling

Optional on the 2022 Lexus RX, the Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive provides superb all-weather traction. This highly adaptive AWD works in tandem with an eight-speed automatic transmission system. Driver-centric paddle shifters instantly engage the widely spaced gear spreads from the transmission. By turning the Drive Mode Select dial, the driver could quickly calibrate the shifting points in the gearbox. Preventing understeering and slipping in the wheels, the signature Active Cornering Assist delivers optimal braking power on curved paths. Skidding and other unpredictable motion on the road will be corrected by the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.

4. Sport-Tuned Mechanics

Receiving exclusive mechanical revamping and tweaking, the 2022 RX F Sport models surely stand out from the rest of the roster. The optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system significantly reduces body roll on tight turns. Delivering up to 650 unique adjustments, the exclusive AVS maintains an optimum combination of stiffness and softness. The F Sport models also boast performance-tuned dampers and the specially tuned Electronic Power Steering (EPS) for responsive and spirited driving on the highway. Additionally, the Sport S+ Mode is exclusively available from the Drive Mode Select dial in the center console.

5. Athletic Exterior Styling

Split into five spokes, 20.0-inch alloy wheels with the Dark Silver application are available on the 2022 Lexus RX. Having a 10-spoke split, 20.0-inch alloy wheels with the Dark Graphite design are exclusively installed on the F Sport editions. Also measuring 20.0 inches, black alloy wheels with black locks are installed on the Black Line Special Edition. Gloss Black accents embellish the car's front grille, front splitter and rear diffuser for contrasting visual effects. Installed along the vehicle's streamlined roofline, the aluminum roof rails clearly stand out.

6. Exquisite Craftsmanship

The Yamaha Gray Sapele wood trimming adds natural appeal to the 2022 Lexus RX's cabin. Some other elegant design options on the menu include open-pore brown walnut and matte bamboo wood. Consumers seeking a more contemporary design should select the aluminum trimming on the pedals and door-sill scuff plates. Ambient LED lights gently highlight the appealing trimming accents inside this luxurious Lexus crossover SUV. Some rich upholstery options for this upscale family vehicle include perforated semi-aniline leather and the synthetic NuLuxe material.

7. Comfortable in Any Weather

Cold winters won't disrupt the comfort level inside the 2022 Lexus RX, which has a dual-zone automatic climate control system, heated front seats, heated second-row seats and a heated steering wheel. A tri-zone HVAC system with multiple rear air vents provides even better comfort for every occupant inside this lavish crossover SUV. Manual sunshades and the signature Panorama glass roof deliver additional options for taking road trips during the hot summer season. Inclement weather won't be bothersome for the 2022 RX's driver because of the standard rain-sensing windshield wipers and a front windshield wiper de-icer.

8. Clever Utilities

Featuring the Kick Sensor, the 2022 Lexus RX's Power Rear Door provides enhanced utility for families that frequently transport lots of cargo. A single power button smoothly lowers the tailgate from a preset height to a fully closed position. Likewise, a dedicated power button completely folds the third-row seating system inside this upscale Lexus crossover SUV. The signature Lexus Memory System moves the driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors to preset positions. Additionally, the outside mirrors have a power-folding design with automatic dimming for extra utility.

9. Plenty of Advanced Electronics

A 12.3-inch multimedia display with pinch-to-zoom controls is optional on the 2022 Lexus RX. This high-resolution screen shows videos from the Panoramic View Monitor, which includes the Bird's Eye View, Moving View and See-Through View. Responding to a variety of phrases, the Dynamic Voice Command provides easy access to the Lexus Enform Navigation System. This premium crossover SUV also has a Wi-Fi hotspot, six USB ports, Bluetooth and other smartphone-optimized features. A color head-up display and performance-inspired digital instrumentation are available for enhanced visual feedback in real time.

10. Next-Generation Safety Features

Coming from the latest Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite, the 2022 RX's All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control appeals greatly to urban drivers. The LSS+ 2.0 bundle includes the Lane Tracing Assist, which helps the driver navigate curved roads. Some other default accident-prevention features on this midsize crossover SUV include the Lane Departure Alert and Road Sign Assist. Parking this premium Lexus model will be simple with assistance from the Intuitive Parking Assist. If the driver attempts to back up into an approaching car, the Rear Cross-Traffic Braking will come on.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Lexus RX – The Cons

1. Small Cargo Capacity

When equipped with two rows of seating, the 2022 Lexus RX offers a maximum cargo capacity of only 32.7 cubic feet. Families could only add 16.0 cubic feet of cargo behind the upright rear seats. Even worse, the three-row seating configuration comes with a standard cargo rating of just 7.5 cubic feet. Folding the third-row seats will only increase the cargo capacity to 23.0 cubic feet.

2. Low Fuel Economy on Non-Hybrid Models

Combining the standard V-6 gasoline engine with a front-wheel drive, the 2022 Lexus RX only gets up to 20 mpg in the city. An all-wheel drive system reduces the city fuel economy to just 18 mpg on some trims. Such a configuration yields a highway fuel economy of 25 mpg on select models. Families will barely get 480 miles of driving range from a full fuel tank. Fuel efficiency is slightly compromised by the 0.33 coefficient of drag.

3. Slow Driving on Highway

A FWD system and the default 3.5-L engine accelerate the 2022 Lexus RX from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. When running on an AWD system, some trims go from a standstill to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. Despite having quick torque-delivering capabilities, the hybrid powertrain is sluggish on the highway. This efficient powerhouse propels the luxury car from 0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Additionally, the hybrid models are limited to a top track speed of only 112 mph.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Lexus RX vs 2022 INFINITI QX60

Stepping into the luxury midsize crossover space, INFINITI's 2022 QX60 offers a dynamic driving experience made possible by its powerful V-6 engine that churns out 295 horsepower and 270 pound feet of torque—equivalent to Lexus' RX. Still absent from this model is any available hybrid system for added fuel efficiency on long city drives.

For an unparalleled driving experience, the Lexus crossover SUV doesn't disappoint. Its Sport S+ Mode, powered by Active Cornering Assist and special F sport features, helps drivers navigate dry and wet roads with grace - providing a boost of confidence while they explore every turn.

2022 Lexus RX vs 2022 GMC Acadia

Rated at only 228 hp and 258 lb-ft, the 2022 GMC Acadia's 2.0-liter turbo engine doesn't threaten the 2022 Lexus RX's standard V-6 powerplant. This GMC crossover SUV is available with the Active Torque Control AWD System with several settings for handling tough driving conditions.

However, the Acadia doesn't offer anything to match the RX's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management. Measuring just 8.0 inches wide, the GMC Infotainment System isn't as easy to view and manage as the RX's 12.3-inch touch screen. The Lexus Enform Navigation System also delivers better guidance than the basic navigation unit on the GMC model.

Conclusion

The 2022 Lexus RX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that offers families tremendous capability and safety. With seating for five or seven, the interior design of this vehicle has been crafted with versatility in mind. Its F Sport models have unique suspension systems perfect for those seeking dynamic performance capabilities while commuters will love its hybrid system providing remarkable fuel efficiency around town.