When Lexus announced the RX 500h F Sport Performance, it immediately caught attention as the most powerful RX ever built. While it may not be the most powerful Lexus of all time, it certainly takes the RX lineup into a new dimension of performance, design, and comfort. This SUV blends the brand’s well-known luxury DNA with sportier engineering elements, making it an interesting rival to German models like the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE. In this review, we’ll cover everything from performance and design to comfort, technology, and pricing, so you know exactly what this Lexus has to offer.
Design and Styling of the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance
The exterior of the RX 500h F Sport Performance is striking and immediately recognizable as a Lexus. Draped in Iridium Silver, the SUV shines brilliantly under sunlight, showing off its bold proportions. The front fascia carries Lexus’s spindle grille in a gradient finish, flanked by triple-beam LED headlights and L-shaped running lights. The lower section of the bumper gets a sportier splitter design to match its performance tag.
On the side, you’ll notice the floating roof design and satin black 21-inch wheels, which perfectly contrast with the silver body. At the rear, a full-width LED tail light stretches across the tailgate, highlighting Lexus branding in a modern way. While some buyers may prefer the Copper Crest finish seen on other Lexus models, the Iridium Silver remains one of the classiest shades in the lineup.
Inside, the RX 500h F Sport Performance continues Lexus’s tradition of luxury. The cabin is draped in supple leather with rich Cabernet red tones, Alcantara inserts, and carefully stitched detailing. The F Sport seats are sportier than the regular RX, offering larger bolsters for more support during spirited driving. Ambient lighting, brushed aluminum trims, and an overall meticulous build quality make the interior feel far more premium than many competitors.
Performance and Powertrain
The Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance gets a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with Lexus’s hybrid technology. The combination produces 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful RX in history. The SUV can sprint from 0–60 mph in the mid-5-second range, which is quick for a luxury hybrid SUV.
Unlike other RX hybrid versions, the 500h comes with a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT. This improves driving engagement and reduces the droning sound typical of CVTs. The SUV also features Lexus’s Direct4 all-wheel-drive system, ensuring strong grip and better power distribution.
On the road, the RX 500h delivers an impressive balance between comfort and performance. Rear-wheel steering makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, while adaptive variable suspension improves stability at higher speeds. However, the steering still feels light and lacks some of the connection found in European rivals like the BMW X5.
Performance Specs Table
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cyl hybrid |
| Horsepower | 366 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | Mid 5 seconds |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Direct4 AWD |
| MPG (EPA est.) | 27 MPG (tested: 31.7 MPG) |
Comfort, Space, and Practicality
Even though the RX 500h F Sport Performance is the sportiest RX to date, Lexus has not sacrificed comfort. The cabin remains whisper-quiet, with superb insulation from road noise and vibrations. Heated and cooled seats in both rows, a heated steering wheel, and Lexus’s climate concierge make long journeys effortless.
Rear passengers enjoy good legroom and supportive seats, with features like three-zone climate control, USB-C charging ports, and optional seat recline. Headroom is slightly limited with the panoramic roof, but still sufficient for most adults. Cargo space measures about 30 cubic feet with the seats up and nearly 47 cubic feet with them folded down. While not class-leading, the wide tailgate opening makes loading luggage easier.
Cargo and Seating Space Table
| Cargo Space (Seats Up) | ~30 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Space (Seats Folded) | ~47 cu. ft. |
| Rear Seat Comfort | Heated & cooled, reclining seats |
| Climate Zones | 3-zone climate control |
Technology and Features
Technology has become a core selling point for Lexus, and the RX 500h F Sport Performance does not disappoint. The centerpiece is the 14-inch touchscreen with Lexus Connected Services, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and advanced navigation. A head-up display projects key driving info on the windshield, while a fully digital instrument cluster adds a modern touch.
Other highlights include:
- Mark Levinson premium audio system with rich sound quality.
- 360-degree cameras and a digital rearview mirror.
- Active sound control that pumps artificial engine noise into the cabin (can be turned off).
- Advanced safety with Lexus Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and collision prevention features.
The user interface is better than older Lexus models, as commonly used climate controls remain visible on the screen at all times. However, the steering wheel touchpads for media and safety systems can feel a little fiddly compared to traditional buttons.
Pricing and Value
The Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance starts at around $65,000. Our test model, with additional features, was priced at approximately $75,000. While it isn’t the most expensive RX in the lineup—that title belongs to the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid—it still competes in the same price territory as the BMW X5 and Genesis GV80.
The RX offers excellent long-term value thanks to Lexus’s reputation for reliability and strong resale. However, enthusiasts seeking pure performance might still prefer German rivals with larger engines and sharper handling.
Final Verdict
The Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance is the most powerful RX ever and a strong step forward for the brand’s mid-size luxury SUV. It blends sporty upgrades with Lexus’s signature focus on comfort, refinement, and luxury materials. While it may not be as aggressive or performance-focused as a BMW X5, it offers a smoother, more reliable, and highly luxurious alternative that still delivers quick acceleration and hybrid efficiency.
For buyers who value comfort, technology, and Lexus reliability over pure driving thrills, the RX 500h F Sport Performance is a fantastic choice. If performance is your top priority, however, you may still want to look at European rivals.
FAQs about the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance
Q1. Is the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance the most powerful Lexus ever?
No, it is the most powerful RX ever, but not the most powerful Lexus overall. Models like the LFA and LC500 are more powerful.
Q2. How fast is the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance?
It can go from 0–60 mph in the mid-5-second range.
Q3. Does the RX 500h F Sport Performance have good fuel economy?
Yes, the EPA rates it at 27 MPG, and real-world tests showed up to 31.7 MPG.
Q4. What is the price of the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance?
It starts around $65,000, with fully equipped models reaching $75,000.
Q5. Who should buy the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance?
Buyers who want a luxury hybrid SUV that balances comfort, performance, and reliability should consider it.
