2025 Lexus RX500h F Sport Performance

2025 Lexus RX
Efficient, luxurious, and now sportier.

The Lexus RX continues as a staple in the Lexus lineup for 2025 with minimal changes for 2025. The RX is a five-passenger mid-size crossover that is now in its fifth generation which launched in 2023 with a complete overhaul. New for 2025, RX adds a Black Line Special Edition package offered exclusively on the RX 500h F Sport Performance model with a new Incognito color option, expanded offerings of the F Sport Design, and a standard 12.3” multi-information display across the lineup.

For 2025, the RX is available in four distinct variants, RX, RX Hybrid, RX 500h F Sport Performance, and the RX Plug-in Hybrid EV. Joining the line up later in 2025 will be a Black Line Special Edition package offered exclusively on the 500h F Sport Performance model.

RX models start at $50,325 and include 11 variants that come with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque.

RX Hybrid models start at $52,475 and include 7 variants that come with two different powertrain options. 350h models come with a hybrid motor coupled with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with 246 total system horsepower and 233 lb.-ft. of torque.

RX 500h F Sport Performance models start at $66,150 and combine a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four that pairs with two electric motors and a battery to produce a combined 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque.

RX Plug-in Hybrid EVs are powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery paired with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine to deliver a combined 304 net horsepower with a starting price of $72,610.

Competition includes vehicles such as the Acura MDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Audi Q5/Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac XT5, Infiniti QX60, Jaguar F-pace, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Porsche Cayenne, and Volvo XC60.

I'm a sucker for a sport package that enhances the looks of a vehicle, and the F Sport package does that to the RX. For 2025, the F SPORT Design builds on the Premium grade and is available on the RX 350 and 350h. . F SPORT Design shares F SPORT Handling exterior characteristics, including the F SPORT front fascia, grille, rear valence and 21-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels with a gloss black metallic finish. Six exterior color options are available including: Ultra White, Cloudburst Gray, Iridium, Caviar, Copper Crest and Grecian Water. The interior features Birch and Black interior options with Black Open Pore Wood trim. Interior sport seats have enhanced bolsters with unique stitching in black and red. New this year is the Black Line Special Edition package that adds to the F Sport package on the RX 500h. This package features black exterior appearance parts, orange brake calipers and 21-inch split-five-spoke wheels with a black finish.

After driving the PHEV model in December, this time I spent a week in the hybrid model with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four that pairs with two electric motors and a battery to produce a combined 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This is the most powerful RX and it showed with a 0-60 time of around 5.9 seconds. Power transmits through a 6-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. It’s responsive and very agile for an SUV. I took some corners quickly and the RX remained grounded and glided around with ease and little body roll. On the road, the RX 500h delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, effectively absorbing minor road imperfections. The F Sport Performance came with the optional handling package that adds an adaptive variable suspension based on the LC500. Even with that, it remains a heavy crossover that takes some effort for the driving "excitement." It is offered with various drive modes including an available Sport S+ that does make it slightly more fun to drive with adjustments to the steering and suspension. While it offers spirited acceleration, overall, it is more tuned for relaxed cruising and is very refined in its road manners.

First Impression Summary:
Test Vehicle: 2025 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance
Exterior Color: Iridium
Interior Color: Rioja Red leather and Dark Graphite Aluminum trim
Notable Options: 120 V AC Outlet ($550), Convenience Package ($1,670), Premium Triple-Beam Headlights ($1,565), Mark Levinson Premium Audio ($1,160), Heated & Ventilated Rear Seats ($1,230), Advanced Park ($480), Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor ($150), Premium Paint ($500), Technology Package ($475), Puddle Lamps ($175), Illuminated Door Sills ($460), Illuminated Carpet Sills ($300), Mudguards ($170).

Price as tested: $74,795 (with destination charge)

Pros: Fuel Efficiency, Smooth Ride, Luxurious Interior, Standard Safety, Sporty Appearance
Cons: Average Cargo Space, High Price with options, Athletic Performance