Used Lexus RX Quick Facts
- The best used RX is probably a 2018 through 2021, followed by the 2011-2015 version.
- The Lexus RX continually earns praise for its excellent resale and dependability.
- The RX offers a choice of gas, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrains.
There are very few sure things in this world, even less so when buying a used car or SUV. One vehicle that bucks this trend is the Lexus RX. From the start, the RX made a name for itself by delivering exceptional comfort, luxury, and value in a vehicle with an enviable history of reliability and class-leading resale. While there have been a few years where the RX has fallen short of its standard, most Lexus RX models prove to be great used SUV choices.
- What Is the Best Model-Year Used Lexus RX?
- Lexus RX by Generation: Which Trim Should You Buy?
- How Much Can the Lexus RX Tow?
- Does the Lexus RX Offer a Hybrid Engine?
- Can the Lexus RX Go Off-Road?
- What are the Most Reliable Years for the Lexus RX?
- What are the Least Reliable Years for the Lexus RX?
What Is the Best Model-Year Used Lexus RX?
If you can find one in good condition with low miles, one of the best RX generations is the third, emphasizing the 2012-2015 models. If you’re looking for something with more tech, better safety, more room, and improved fuel economy, the fourth generation (2016 through 2022) is a better choice. The fifth-generation RX, which debuted in 2023, is also appealing, but some may not like the somewhat polarizing styling and use of turbocharged 4-cylinder engines over the proven V6 from previous generations. This generation has also experienced a few uncommon issues and complaints with an RX.
For those seeking luxury on a budget, a third-generation RX may be a good choice, but there are a few problem areas and years to avoid. We’ll delve a little deeper in sections below.
Of course, buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) Lexus RX is the best way to avoid costly repairs. Sold through the Lexus dealer network, a CPO RX must be six years old or newer and have less than 80,000 miles. It will have to pass a 161-point inspection and come with an extended warranty that adds two years and unlimited mileage to the original 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.
Lexus RX by Generation: Which Trim Should You Buy?
Fifth Generation: 2023-Present Lexus RX
The fifth-generation Lexus RX marks a radical departure from the previous generations. It’s the first time a V6 is no longer available, replaced by a series of 4-cylinder engines for gas and hybrid models. The third-row seat option also disappears.
The fifth generation includes four distinct models, each with numerous trim levels. The gas-only RX 350 employs a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine good for 275 hp. It’s offered with a choice of front-wheel (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The RX 350h adds a hybrid setup pairing a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with dual electric motors for a combined output of 246 hp. The RX 450h+ adds a plug-in component generating 304 hp and a 35-mile all-electric range. Finally, there’s the RX 500h, which merges the 2.4-liter turbo with dual electric motors for a combined 366 hp. Unlike the other hybrid RX models, which have a continuously variable automatic transmission, the 500h uses a traditional 6-speed automatic, which we think is a better transmission when it comes to performance.
The base RX features bi-LED headlights, LED fog lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, heated side mirrors with auto tilt-down in reverse, and a driver’s side auto-dimming feature.
The RX 350 includes a comprehensive suite of driver aids and safety systems, all part of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. You get adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, and intersection assist, which can help avoid collisions with vehicles when crossing an intersection.
Other features include a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and traffic sign recognition.
Luxury and technology have always been a Lexus calling card, and even in the base model, there’s an abundance of both. NuLuxe faux leather covers the seats, which include 8-way power driver and passenger seats. Also standard is a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats, Smart Access with push-button start, ambient interior lighting, multi-zone automatic climate control, and a 7-inch digital multi-information instrument cluster configurable to show a variety of readouts.
The standard infotainment system comprises a large 9.8-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.
Optional equipment for the RX 350 includes a power moonroof, heated windshield wiper de-icer, a wireless charging pad, Digital Key, and Intuitive Parking Assist that uses front and rear parking sensors to warn when getting too close to stationary objects.
The hybrid RX 350h is nearly identical to the RX 350, other than the mechanical changes, a hybrid-specific instrument cluster, and an EV mode added to the Drive Modes.
Moving up the trim ladder brings even more features. The Premium trim adds heated and ventilated front seats, memory for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and mirrors, a power tilt/slide moonroof, and a wireless charging pad. Intuitive Parking Assist comes standard.
Optional equipment for the Premium includes a motion-activated power liftgate, a heated wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel, a 360-degree Panoramic View monitor, a digital rearview mirror camera, and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with a three-year trial to Drive Connect.
The available Lexus Advanced Park can automatically parallel or perpendicular park the vehicle with minimal input from the driver.
The Premium+ adds customizable ambient interior lighting, an advanced climate control system with smog-sensing automatic recirculate mode, perforated leather-trimmed seats, and a heated wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also has a 14-inch touchscreen.
Premium+ options include heated and ventilated rear seats, a panoramic glass roof, 21-inch alloy wheels, triple-beam LED headlights with washers and cornering lights, a 10-inch color head-up display, and a Mark Levinson audio system featuring a 1,800-watt amp powering 21 speakers.
Building off the Premium+, the Luxury trim adds semi-aniline leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats with 4-way power lumbar support, Ultrasuede interior door trim, 21-inch alloy wheels, and the 10-inch color head-up display.
Options beyond those from the Premium+ include power-folding and reclining rear seats.
The F Sport Handling combines some luxury features from the RX 350 Premium and Luxury with a more aggressive suspension and steering setup. It also has a unique mesh grille and front bumper, 21-inch gloss black alloy wheels, and gloss black highlighting the roof rack, window trim, and side mirrors.
Performance enhancements include an adaptive variable suspension, F Sport-tuned front and rear lateral performance dampers, and 6-piston front brake calipers.
The RX 500h F Sport Performance builds on the F Sport Handling, adding perforated leather seating, 21-inch matte black alloy wheels, and Active Sound Control, which amplifies the engine’s performance sounds through a speaker hidden behind the dash.
Options for the F Sport Performance include heated and ventilated rear seats, upgraded 21-inch wheels, and a 120-volt inverter.
While this generation offers the latest in infotainment and driver assistance, it has had a few issues early on. They include glitchy infotainment screens, 12V battery failure on the hybrid models, and a few recalls, including a risk of the driver airbag not deploying and fuel pump failure.
Model Year Changes:
2025: Minor features update.
2024: Lexus debuts the plug-in hybrid RX 450h+.
Fourth Generation: 2016-2022 Lexus RX
The fourth-generation RX is probably the most desirable among the used generations. It still has the proven 3.5-liter V6, features an available hybrid engine, includes many high-tech driver assists, and offers a stretched platform, adding a third-row seat. This generation is also highly regarded for its quality and reliability.
The fourth is slightly larger, more powerful, and has more amenities than the third-generation RX.
Models for this generation include the RX 350, RX 350 F Sport, RX 450h, and RX 450h F Sport. The RX 350 trims employ a 295-hp 3.5-liter V6, while the RX 450h uses the same engine teamed with a hybrid electric system producing 308 hp. Both trims are FWD and offer the option of AWD.
Fuel economy for the FWD RX 350 is 20 mpg city/27 mpg hwy/23 mpg combined. Models with AWD see a one mpg reduction. The RX 450h earns 31 mpg city/30 mpg hwy/30 mpg combined.
Base models include luxury items such as a power rear liftgate, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, 18-inch alloy wheels, and Siri Eyes Free for iPhone.
The F Sport trims offer 20-inch wheels, paddle shifters, and an adaptive suspension.
Optional upgrades include leather upholstery, a power sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, a Mark Levinson audio system, a hands-free power liftgate, navigation, and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen.
Optional driver assists include forward collision warning and braking, a blind-spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. As the years pass, some of these features move from the options list to the standard equipment list.
Within this generation, the 2016 and 2017 models suffer a few issues, including complaints about engine vibration, rattles inside the cabin, failure of power door lock actuators, and oil leaks. There have also been several instances where the sunroof exploded without an obvious cause, although this phenomenon is not unique to Lexus.
There are also a few recalls for the 2016 model year, including possible failure of airbags to deploy and a damaged brake actuator.
The 2018-2022 period is a better choice, as many early issues seem to be ironed out.
Model Year Changes:
2022: Fog lights become a stand-alone option.
2021: New standard equipment includes a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and power-folding self-dimming mirrors. Lexus Remote complimentary for three years, a wireless charging pad joins the options list, and the F Sport gains a power moonroof and heated steering wheel.
2020: Lexus adds Android Auto integration, standard paddle shifters, an improved suspension, and an available adaptive suspension for the F Sport.
2019: No significant changes.
2018: The extended, three-row RX 350L and RX 450hL join the lineup. Base models offer a blind-spot monitor and power sunroof.
2017: Lexus Safety System+ becomes standard, bringing automatic emergency braking to all trims. The RX 450h gains rear cross traffic alert and a blind-spot monitor, while the F Sport offers a front-wheel drive option. All hybrid models gain standard all-wheel drive.
Third Generation: 2010-2015 Lexus RX
The third-generation RX grows more sophisticated, displaying Lexus’ new L-finesse design language, a new transmission, and a new all-wheel-drive system. The V6 from the previous generation carries over, only with more power and better fuel economy. The third-gen RX also gets a more modern interior, better tech, and upgraded driver assist features. However, if you’re looking for touchscreen infotainment or smartphone integration, you’ll have to move up to the fourth-generation RX.
The RX 350 comes with a 275-hp 3.5-liter V6, while the RX 450h uses the same engine, only coupled to a hybrid electric system for a total output of 297 hp. The hybrid features two electric motors up front and a third in the rear when equipped with all-wheel drive.
Standard features on the RX 350 include automatic climate control, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, reclining and sliding second-row seats, premium audio with a 6-disc CD changer and Bluetooth, 10 airbags, and standard traction and stability control.
Options for the RX include semi-aniline leather seating, 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, headlamp washers, heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, Mark Levinson audio, intuitive park assist, a pre-collision system with automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control.
While not horribly unreliable compared with the rest of the RX family, this generation has more problems, including glitchy touchscreens, engine issues such as bad fuel injectors and oil leaks, and the dreaded unintended acceleration recall.
Model Year Changes:
2015: All trims gain a new 7-inch display screen and rear backup camera. The 6-disc changer gets pared down to a single unit, and the speaker count moves from nine to 12.
2014: Minor changes include the availability of Siri Eyes Free.
2013: The RX gets a new spindle grille and standard power liftgate. The F Sport arrives touting an 8-speed transmission and stiffer suspension.
2012: No significant changes.
2011: Smart Stop, a technology that cuts engine power if the throttle and brake are depressed simultaneously, becomes standard.
The Lexus RX Early Years: Generation one and two (1999-2009)
2004-2009:
The second-generation RX gets a 230-hp 3.3-liter V6 and a new name: RX 330. Lexus adds more luxury features and a more refined look. New features include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive front headlights, Mark Levinson audio, rain-sensing wipers, an air suspension, and adaptive cruise control.
The second-gen RX is also the first to offer a hybrid powertrain, which debuted in the RX 400h.
This generation is well regarded for its reliability, although some 2004-2006 models have transmission and suspension component issues. Other complaints from this generation include cracked dashboards, leaking brake master cylinder, and oil leaks due to a failed VVT-I oil line.
1998-2003:
The OG RX made quite a splash when it debuted, ushering in the era of the luxury crossover SUV. Bringing Lexus quality to a small SUV made the first RX a hit. It featured a V6 engine, a long list of luxury features, a soft ride, and the option of all-wheel drive. Some of the more unique options include a choice of Pioneer or Nakamichi sound systems, DVD navigation, a wood and leather steering wheel, and full airbag coverage, including side-impact airbags.
Although aging, this first-generation RX is considered a reliable SUV. Just be sure to have a mechanic give it a good once-over before buying.
How Much Can the Lexus RX Tow?
Many second, third, fourth, and fifth generation RXs can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with a tow package. Some trims without the package are lower.
Does the Lexus RX Offer a Hybrid Engine?
Lexus has offered a hybrid engine in the RX since 2005. The fifth-generation model also offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) alongside the standard hybrid.
Can the Lexus RX Go Off-Road?
While the RX’s all-wheel-drive system is pretty capable, the suspension isn’t off-road ready. However, the RX will probably do fine on dirt roads, mild trails, and snow-covered pathways.
What are the Most Reliable Years for the Lexus RX?
The RX spans five decades, over which most models are highly regarded. Of the generations, the most reliable seem to be the fourth and fifth, centering on the 2011-2015 RX, the 2018-2021 RX, and, for those looking at something older, the 2012-2014.
If you go with an RX older than six years, a private-party sale may be advantageous as you can negotiate a better price and, if it’s the original owner, obtain the car’s past repair history. A car only a few years old might be better bought from a dealer that can provide an inspection and some type of warranty, as found on certified pre-owned (CPO) cars.
What are the Least Reliable Years for the Lexus RX?
There are a couple of years with more problems than others. The second generation, specifically 2004-2007, has more issues than we’d like. If you’re looking at this generation, shoot for a 2008 or newer.
Other years with some red flags include 2010, 2016, and 2017. These models have several complaints, including oil leaks, glitchy infotainment systems, engine vibration, and multiple airbag recalls.
