2027 Lexus RX Adds Red Calipers, Enhanced Powertrains

The 2027 Lexus RX is set to arrive at dealerships in Fall 2026, introducing a new visual enhancement for its F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance grades: optional red front and rear brake calipers. This update accompanies a continued focus on diverse powertrain options, advanced technology, and a refined driving experience for the luxury crossover.

Key Updates and Design

Beyond the new red brake calipers, the 2027 Lexus RX maintains its distinctive exterior styling, characterized by a seamless grille and optimized proportions that reflect its low center of gravity. Buyers can select from 19-inch or 21-inch wheel designs, depending on the chosen grade. The rear features a single lens taillamp that emphasizes the vehicle's width.

Inside, the cabin is designed with a driver-focused layout, ensuring essential controls and information are easily accessible. A 12.3-inch multi-information display (MID) is standard across all grades. The interior offers six color options and four ornamentation styles, along with an ambient lighting system providing 64 colors and 14 themes.

Powertrain Options

For the 2027 Lexus RX, a diverse range of powertrains is available to suit various driving preferences. The RX 350, offered in FWD or AWD, features a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The RX 350h AWD is a hybrid model, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque. Its E-Four all-wheel drive system provides immediate power to the rear wheels when needed.

The RX 450h+ AWD is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that pairs a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. It offers an EPA-estimated combined 85 MPGe and an EPA-estimated 38-mile electric-only range. This model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 6.2 seconds and fully charges in approximately 2.5 hours using a 240V outlet with its standard 6.6 kW onboard charger.

The performance-oriented RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD utilizes a high-performance hybrid system, featuring a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and an integrated Power Control Unit with an electric motor. This setup delivers a total of 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic gearbox and a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system.

Chassis and Technology Enhancements

The 2027 Lexus RX also features the GA-K platform, which contributes to overall rigidity through bracing at key points and provides a low center of gravity. The suspension system includes MacPherson front struts and a five-arm multi-link rear setup. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is available on F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance grades, adjusting damping force based on driving conditions.

Braking is handled by two-piston calipers with 13.39-inch front and rear rotors on standard models. F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance models receive six-piston aluminum calipers and larger 15.74-inch front rotors. The F SPORT Performance grade also offers Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS), which can turn the rear wheels up to 4 degrees to enhance maneuverability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds.

Technology features include the Lexus Interface with either a standard 9.8-inch or available 14-inch high-definition touchscreen, offering Cloud Navigation and an Intelligent Assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. Available features like Digital Key, Advanced Park with Remote Park, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound system further enhance convenience and connectivity.

The 2027 Lexus RX continues to offer a comprehensive package for luxury crossover buyers, blending performance, comfort, and advanced features across its diverse grade lineup.