What do you have when you combine the popular Lexus RX with a turbocharged hybrid engine and the desirable F Sport trim?
You get a desirable electrified vehicle.
The Lexus RX have been a winner for the luxury brand since it was first introduced some 25 years ago. This generation’s model offers plenty of high style, combined with family comfort and greater utility. It is the right combination that attracts customers to this luxury SUV.
To answer the question above, we received a 2025 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance model to see if this is the right luxury hybrid SUV for everyone – or, just some people.
The exterior design offers a familiar fastback-esque roofline and side glass design as the RX’s signature look. The blunt front end sports the signature F Sport black fine mesh grille. This looks fine with the silver paint job. The liftgate offers a horizontal LED taillight unit finishing off the updated look.
On top of the grille, the RX 500h F Sport Performance adds a set of blacked out 21-inch wheels and F Sport badging to complete the overall package.
The interior features a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster that is highly customizable. The head-up display will show you which control will do exactly the function you need. The 14-inch touchscreen is driven by the Lexus Interface infotainment system is a short reach for drivers. Steering wheel controls are multi-functional.
The F Sport’s front seats are heavily bolstered, providing support for the seatback and cushion. Red-and-black leather and suede make a pronounced statement to its Performance status. There is plenty of space for four-to-five people inside, There is 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet with it folded down.
What motivates the RX 500h F Sport Performance is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine connected to two electric motors – one at each axle. It is rated for a net combined 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends that power to the Direct4 all-wheel drive system – an electronic system designed for electrified vehicles.
Performance is better than expected. It has plenty of acceleration for passing and on-ramps. Cruising is where this driveline comes into play, as it provided a smooth experience overall. As for fuel economy, we observed an average of 24.1 MPG.
The ride quality of the RX F Sport felt very solid in Normal mode. In Sport mode, the Adaptive Variable Suspension system firms up the suspension, which may be just fine when you are transporting more than yourself. This system absorbed the roadway with excellent dampening and a much quieter ride overall. Handling was solid with minimal lean and roll on extreme maneuvers and curves.
This F Sport Performance tester also included the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system with Dynamic rear wheel steering. We found this system delivers on great cornering
However, on-center feel was OK, even with driver assistance features enabled. As for the brakes, there was a bit of softness to the pedal feel that transmitted down to the wheels. The system yielded stops in normal and panic situations that were just fine.
Pricing for the 2025 Lexus RX starts at $50,475, with Hybrid models starting form $52,775. There is a choice of 14 trim levels and four drivelines available across the RX lineup. Our RX 500h F Sport Performance tester came in with a sticker price of $74,795.
The Lexus RX continues to be constantly challenged by several serious competitors. These competitors include the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5 and X6, Audi Q7 and Q8, Volvo XC90, Infiniti QX60, Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, Cadillac XT5, and Lincoln Nautilus. It is worth noting that same of these competitors offer a third row of seating, whereas the RX no longer offers such a model.
When it comes to the original luxury crossover, you are pipped for choice. The 2025 Lexus RX 500h is a compelling choice combining near-zero emissions with a sporting flair. The F Sport package adds more aggression – even when you have a hybrid engine underneath the hood.
