The Lexus RX is the best-selling luxury SUV in the country, so it's no surprise Lexus is making a couple of updates to keep things fresh for 2022.
What's New for Lexus in 2022
For 2022, Lexus will offer two new color options on all models: Cloudburst Gray and Iridium. Grecian Water is a new exclusive color for F SPORT models. For 2022, you can also get standalone fog lamps, which Lexus says give you the option for added lighting on any grade or package without additional add-ons.
Based on customer feedback, the NuLuxe trim option will continue to be offered across all grade levels from base to Premium grade vehicles across the RX and RXL lineup. In the Luxury grade, Glazed Caramel replaces the Noble Brown interior. The Premium grade adds Glazed Carmel as well to the color palette.
Lexus Black Line Edition
The 2022 RX Black Line models are also back for 2022. Based on the Premium Package, they'll be limited to 2,500 units – split 2,100 gas and 400 hybrids across North America.
Credit: Lexus.
The Black Line Edition is available in two exterior colors, including optional Eminent White Pearl and Caviar and rides on 20” black wheels.
Driving Dynamics
The RX received some major changes in 2020 to enhance the driving dynamics. Both the front and rear stabilizer bars are hollow to reduce weight, yet their thicker diameters and reinforced bushings help reduce body roll and improve steering response. The shock absorbers were re-tuned to work with the stiffer roll bars, while upgraded dampers feature a friction control device that helps to control high-frequency vibrations for a smoother ride. Lexus says the stiff suspension is designed to reduce the noise and vibration from the road. On turns, the active corner braking will help prevent understeering by braking the inner wheel and providing more stability to the vehicle handling. Additional rigidity is achieved through additional spot welds and adhesive.
Technology
Also in 2020, Lexus designers moved the Lexus Multimedia System touchscreen nearly 5.5 inches closer to the driver. You can choose the standard 8-inch display or available 12.3-inch high-resolution, split-screen multimedia display. The 12.3-inch multimedia system includes Dynamic Voice Command (DVC) which we think is really terrific. The system can recognize millions more phrases than conventional Lexus systems.
Photo Credit: Lexus
You'll get both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration along with Amazon Alexa. The Lexus App allows guests to do everything from starting their vehicle remotely with a smartphone to contacting dealers for a service appointment and much more. With an active subscription, the Lexus App dashboard provides a personalized view of convenient vehicle and connected service information, including the Vehicle Health Report, scheduled maintenance, and vehicle health alerts. Guests also can manage their subscriptions right from the palm of their hand. (You can remotely start the engine from your smartphone with the 3-year Lexus Enform Remote trial.)
The RX comes with six USB ports and designated cell phone storage.
Safety Features
The 2022 RX comes with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+. It includes Pre-Collision with daytime bicyclist detection and low-light pedestrian detection along with Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) along with All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Yes, you also get standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).
F SPORT
The RX 350 F SPORT is split into two trims: a base F SPORT package and a Handling package, (formerly called the Performance package.) Both include a unique steering wheel and shift knob, aluminum pedals, bumpers, grille, badges, front sport seats, meter, aluminum ornamentation, and 20” wheels. Front and rear performance dampers, LED ambient illumination, a stainless-steel rear door garnish, steering memory with seat memory call, and scuff plates are also included.
While the F Sport focuses on looks, the F Sport Handling package adds Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), based on the Lexus LC500. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is added on RX 350 (standard on the hybrid). A sound generator, Electric Power Steering (EPS) sport steering, moonroof, and heated/ventilated seats are also included in the F SPORT Performance Package.
450h Hybrid
The RX 450h is equipped with the Lexus Hybrid Drive System that delivers 308-horsepower and an EPA-estimated 30 combined MPG.
Photo Credit: Lexus
The system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transferring gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the all-weather drive system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels, when needed, to help maintain optimal traction.
Photo Credit: Lexus