Deliveries for the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance, the most potent RX in the line-up, have commenced in India
It’s almost a year now since the Lexus RX SUV was launched in India and now the deliveries of the 500h F Sport Performance variant have commenced. Showcased at Auto Expo 2023, the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance is the top-of-the-line RX, priced at Rs 1.18 crore (ex-showroom) and puts sporty thrills in focus.
Talking about sporty thrills, let’s get to the hybrid powertrain that allows such thrills to take place. It is a 2.4-litre, turbo-petrol engine that delivers 272 hp, paired with two electric motors–one 64-kW unit at the front and a 76-kW one at the rear—for a combined 371 hp and 550 Nm. six-speed automatic transmission handles engine power transmission duties, with the rear motor kicking in whenever needed. There’s also some cool performance trickery such as dynamic rear steering, active sound control, electronically controlled brake system, and multiple drive modes.
The SUV itself stands out on the outside with its spindle front grille, sharp LED headlights, a sculpted bonnet and C-shaped side intakes exclusive to the RX 500h F-Sport Performance variant. Inside, there’s a driver-focused cabin inspired by the Japanese ‘Tazuna’ concept complemented by a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display and a customisable head-up display. Other features include wireless Apple Carplay, wired Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, ventilated and heated front and rear seats, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, three-zone climate control and ADAS.
Rivals to the Lexus RX include the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Land Rover Discovery, Range Rover Velar, BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90.
