How many gears does a Lexus RX have?
The answer varies by drivetrain: gasoline RX models use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while hybrid RX variants rely on an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that doesn’t use a fixed number of gears.
To understand how the gear system works across the RX lineup, it helps to separate the gasoline-powered options from the hybrid ones. The gasoline RX 350 lineage typically pairs with a traditional automatic gearbox with eight fixed gears, whereas the hybrid RX models blend internal combustion with electric drive through an e-CVT for seamless acceleration.
Gearing by Model Type
Gasoline RX models
Gasoline-only variants use a traditional automatic with discrete gears to manage engine output and driving feel.
- RX 350 (gasoline): 8-speed automatic transmission
- RX 350 F SPORT (gasoline): 8-speed automatic transmission
In everyday driving, the 8-speed automatic provides stepped, predictable shifts and solid responsiveness for most conditions.
Hybrid RX models
Hybrid variants employ an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), which provides seamless power delivery without a fixed gear count.
- RX 450h (hybrid): e-CVT
- RX 500h (hybrid): e-CVT
Because of the e-CVT setup, hybrids emphasize smooth acceleration and efficiency over traditional gear-shift feel.
What this means for drivers
If you prefer the tactile progression of fixed gears, the gasoline RX models with an 8-speed automatic are the better fit. If you value quiet, uninterrupted acceleration and hybrid efficiency, the RX hybrids with an e-CVT are designed to deliver that experience.
Summary
Across the current Lexus RX lineup, gasoline models such as the RX 350 use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while hybrid models like the RX 450h and RX 500h use an electronically controlled CVT (e-CVT) rather than a fixed set of gears. The choice between these configurations influences how the vehicle feels to drive and how it delivers power.
