The 2025 Lexus RX is available in three powertrain options: gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Choosing the right powertrain for your needs can feel overwhelming. Read on as we break down what makes each one unique to help you find the best model for your Southern California driving.
2025 Lexus RX Powertrain Options: Understanding Your Choices
The RX 350 features a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD). The hybrid RX 350h combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors, resulting in a total system output of 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque. Although the hybrid models have less power than the gas models, they compensate with instant electric torque.
The plug-in hybrid offers 304 hp, placing it in the middle of the lineup in terms of performance. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) RX 500h F SPORT Performance and Black Line Special Edition models produce up to 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque from a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and electric motors. The RX 350 is available in both FWD and AWD configurations, while all hybrid variants (RX 350h, RX 450h+, RX 500h) come standard with AWD for better grip when you explore the trails in Bailey Canyon.
This luxury SUV faces off against the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Genesis GV80, and Lincoln Nautilus. The RX comes with a reputation for reliability and offers more electric options than most competitors. Each powertrain option appeals to different needs, so whether you want straightforward luxury or the latest plug-in technology, you can find the perfect model in the RX lineup.
Performance and Driving Dynamics Comparison
The gas-powered RX 350 with FWD goes from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the hybrid RX 350h with AWD accomplishes the 0-to-60 mph sprint in 7.4 seconds with its instant electric motor boost. The 2025 Lexus RX plug-in hybrid achieves 0-to-60 mph acceleration in 6.2 seconds, although MotorTrend testing confirmed the RX 450h+ accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. This model has a quarter-mile time of 14.2 seconds at 97 mph, making it quick enough to merge confidently onto I-10.
Weight matters when you’re winding through the San Gabriel Valley or sitting in downtown El Monte traffic. The rechargeable battery pack adds weight to Lexus plug-in hybrid models, making it more planted but less nimble than its lighter siblings, but the electric motors provide serious responsiveness in stop-and-go traffic.
If you like to head out on the weekend to one of the great camping spots near El Monte, you’ll appreciate that all RX variants offer a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The turning radius varies slightly between models, with sporty versions offering a curb-to-curb diameter of 38.7 feet. All models retain the signature Lexus smoothness you expect, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids run whisper-quiet at low speeds in electric mode.
Technology and Features Breakdown
Every RX comes with impressive technology. Standard equipment includes a 9.8-inch touch-screen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel display, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer upgrades, including a 14-inch touch-screen infotainment system with enhanced functionality and a 10-inch color head-up display. All models have a 12-speaker premium sound system that’ll make your morning commute soundtrack sound fantastic.
The 2025 Lexus RX offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo volume with the seats up and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Passengers enjoy 41.1 inches of legroom in the front and 37.4 inches in the back, providing a comfortable ride with sufficient room for adults on longer trips. Heated front seats and a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel come standard on all models except the base version. Luxury models feature a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 includes the following features:
- Precollision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
- Automatic high beams
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Intuitive parking assist with automatic braking
The plug-in hybrid RX takes the lead in fuel efficiency with an estimated 83 MPGe and a 37-mile estimated all-electric driving range, making it ideal for most daily drives around El Monte. Level 2 charging can fully recharge the battery in approximately 2 1/2 hours using the 6.6 kW onboard charger.
Choose Your Perfect 2025 Lexus RX at Longo Lexus
Deciding which Lexus RX is right for you depends on your driving needs and priorities. The traditional gas-powered RX 350 offers solid performance, but for improved fuel economy, consider the hybrid or plug-in hybrid. The performance-focused RX 500h F SPORT Performance and Black Line Special Edition provide thrilling acceleration.
Whether you’re dealing with freeway commutes, stop-and-go traffic, or weekend adventures, there’s an RX that can meet your needs. Contact us at Longo Lexus to schedule your test-drive and find your perfect 2025 Lexus RX match.
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