What is difference between Lexus RX 2022 and 2023?

In brief, the 2023 Lexus RX expands the lineup with a new high-performance hybrid and brings styling, tech, and feature updates that the 2022 model year does not offer. The 2022 RX covers the traditional gas and hybrid options (RX 350 and RX 350h) with the older tech suite, while 2023 adds more powertrain variety and a refreshed interior and exterior.

The question covers what changed from the 2022 to the 2023 model year across powertrains, styling, technology, safety features, trims, and pricing, and how these updates affect buyer choice and ownership experience.

Powertrains and performance

Understanding how the engines and drivetrains differ helps buyers gauge acceleration, efficiency, and driving feel across model years.

• 2022 RX 350: Gas-powered with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive was available as an option on higher trims.


• 2022 RX 350h: Hybrid version combining a 2.5-liter inline-4 with electric motors; smoother power delivery and improved efficiency versus the traditional gas model.


• 2023 RX 350 and RX 350h: Carry over with minimal drivetrain changes, continuing to offer the gas 350 and the hybrid 350h, but with updated standard features and tech across trims.


• 2023 RX 500h: New high-performance hybrid introduced for the year, combining a 2.4-liter turbo engine with a multi-motor hybrid system to deliver substantially higher output than the 350/350h; AWD and an electronically controlled hybrid transmission (e-CVT) are part of the package.

In short, the standout difference is the addition of the RX 500h in 2023, providing a markedly more powerful hybrid option, while the core RX 350 and RX 350h remain in the lineup with incremental tech upgrades rather than new powertrains.

Design and exterior updates

Beyond engines, styling and appearance play a big role in the perceived modernization of the lineup. Here’s what changed.

• 2023 RX: Underwent a mid-cycle refresh with refreshed front fascia, updated headlight design (more modern LED elements), revised grille treatment, and revised taillights. The refresh also included updated wheel designs and new paint colors on select trims.


• 2022 RX: Retained the prior-generation look from the mid-cycle refresh that began around 2019-2020, with the established spindle grille and surrounding design cues.


• 2023 additional trim and appearance details: New or revised accent packages and available wheels to emphasize the refreshed appearance, particularly on higher trims such as variants of the F Sport handling package.

The 2023 model’s exterior refresh gives the RX a newer, sharper silhouette at first glance, while the 2022 model presents the previous styling language without the post-refresh updates.

Interior, technology, and safety

Inside the cabin, tech and safety features influence everyday usability and long-term ownership comfort.

• 2023 interior and tech upgrades: A larger, more modern infotainment experience (with a larger touchscreen option on higher trims) and improved interface; enhanced smartphone integration capabilities (e.g., better Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support) and updated driver-assistance features.


• 2022 interior and tech baseline: Smaller or older infotainment screens on many trims, with the earlier iteration of the Lexus Safety System+ and feature set that predated the 2023 upgrades.


• Safety evolution: The 2023 RX lineup widely adopts updated driver-assistance tech, with refinements to collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist that are more capable in the 2023 model year compared with 2022.

The 2023 model emphasizes a more modern cockpit with a larger display option and upgraded safety tech, while 2022 focuses on the established tech suite and earlier versions of assist features.

Pricing, trims, and availability

Cost and trim structure influence decision-making, especially when a new powertrain is introduced.

• 2022 pricing and trims: The RX lineup included RX 350 and RX 350h across several trim levels, with pricing aligned to those configurations and feature content prior to the 2023 refresh. Availability varied by market.


• 2023 pricing and trims: The lineup adds the new RX 500h as a higher-performance option, and overall pricing generally increases modestly due to the refresh, new powertrain, and updated tech; trim levels are reorganized to accommodate the 500h alongside the existing 350 and 350h.

As a result, buyers moving from 2022 to 2023 can expect a higher starting point on models that include the refreshed styling and new RX 500h, with price differences dependent on chosen trim and options.

Bottom line

The 2023 Lexus RX represents a meaningful step forward with the introduction of the RX 500h performance hybrid, a visual and interior tech refresh, and upgraded safety features. The 2022 RX remains a solid baseline with gas and hybrid options but lacks the 500h, refreshed styling, and newer tech suite found in 2023.

Summary

For buyers weighing the two model years, the choice comes down to whether you want the latest design and a standout performance hybrid (RX 500h in 2023) along with enhanced tech and safety, or you prefer the established, often more affordable setup of the 2022 RX with the proven RX 350 and RX 350h configurations. Either way, both model years deliver Lexus’s characteristic blend of luxury, comfort, and reliability, with 2023 offering a clearer path to higher performance and modern tech.

What is the best year of the Lexus RX?

The best Lexus RX years are generally considered to be the 2013-2015 models for budget-friendly reliability and the 2020-2022 models for a combination of modern features and dependability. Other highly-regarded years include the 2018-2021 range, with 2018 specifically noted for a lack of complaints, and the 2011 model for its strong reliability and comfort. 
This video provides a buyer's guide for the 2015-2022 Lexus RX, highlighting models to avoid and features to consider: 51sThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024
Recommended years

• 2013-2015: Often recommended for a balance of modern features and proven reliability, with owners praising their durability and smooth ride. 
• 2018-2021: This range is highly regarded, especially the 2020-2022 models, which are praised for their dependability and updated infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2018 model, in particular, is noted for having no major complaints. 
• 2011: Considered a standout year from an earlier generation, this model is praised for its reliability, comfortable and luxurious interior, and user-friendly technology. 

Other considerations

• 4th Generation (2016-2022): This generation saw a major redesign, with the 2016-2022 models offering more power and modern technology. 
• 5th Generation (2023+): While the newest models are reliable, they also represent a significant change from previous years and may be more expensive. 

You can watch this video to learn about the best Lexus RX model to buy from each generation: 43sThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 22, 2024
Factors to consider when buying

• Budget: The 2013-2015 models are a great option if you're on a tighter budget. 
• Technology: If you prioritize modern tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the 2020-2022 models are a better fit. 
• Safety: The 2016-2022 models include modern safety features like blind spot monitoring, which may not be available on older models. 
• Hybrid vs. Gas: Hybrid models are smoother and offer better fuel economy, but gas models are more affordable upfront. 

Which year to avoid Lexus RX 350?

Years to potentially avoid the Lexus RX 350 include 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017, as these models have been associated with more complaints regarding issues like oil leaks, engine problems, transmission failures, and dashboard cracking. These are often the first year of a redesign, or specific model years that experienced known issues.
 
Model years to avoid

• 2007 and 2008: These years may have issues with oil leaks and cracking dashboards. 
• 2010: Known for engine problems and rattling doors. Some models also have oil cooler hose issues that can be replaced with metal lines. 
• 2016 and 2017: These were the first years of the fourth generation and are often cited as problematic. 
  • The 2016 model saw issues with the new 8-speed transmission. 
  • The 2017 model had problems with faulty rain sensors. 

Why these years have issues

• First year of a redesign: New generations often have "bugs" that are worked out in subsequent model years. This is particularly true for the 2016 model year, which was the first in its generation. 
• Known common problems: Specific model years have common problems associated with them, such as the oil leaks in the 2007-2008 models and transmission issues in the 2016 model. 

If you must buy one of these years

• If you choose one of the problematic years, it is especially important to get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. 
• The 2010 model can be made more reliable by replacing the rubber oil cooler hoses with metal ones. 

What is the difference between 2022 and 2023 RX 350?

The main difference is that the 2023 RX 350 is a completely redesigned model, featuring a new turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and a significantly updated interior with a larger 14-inch touchscreen and new infotainment system. The 2022 model has a more powerful V6 engine, a traditional physical touchpad for infotainment control, and an older body style. 
This video shows a side-by-side comparison of the 2022 and 2023 Lexus RX models: 58sLexus of EdmontonYouTube · Feb 8, 2023
Performance

• 2023 RX 350:
  • Engine: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder 
  • Horsepower: 275 
  • Torque: 317 lb-ft 
  • Fuel: Requires premium gasoline 
• 2022 RX 350:
  • Engine: 3.5L V6 
  • Horsepower: 295 
  • Torque: 267 lb-ft 
  • Fuel: Uses regular 87 octane gasoline 

Technology and interior

• 2023 RX 350:
  • Infotainment: New system with standard 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen 
  • Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 
  • Control: Drive mode select is controlled through the touchscreen 
  • Charging: Includes a wireless charging pad 
  • Door Handles: Digital latch with a button inside 
• 2022 RX 350:
  • Infotainment: 12.3-inch screen controlled by a physical touchpad 
  • Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto require a USB cable 
  • Control: Drive mode select uses a dial 
  • Charging: Comes with two USB-A ports and a phone holder 
  • Door Handles: Traditional pull-open style 

Exterior and styling

• 2023 RX 350:
  • Redesigned body with a more structured look
  • Spindle grille with horizontal accent bars
  • Full-width rear blade lamp
  • Some F Sport models feature 21-inch wheels
• 2022 RX 350:
  • Older, more rounded body style
  • Traditional grille design
  • Standard rear LED tail lights
  • Some F Sport models feature 20-inch wheels 

Other differences

• Redesign: The 2023 model is the start of a new generation, while the 2022 model is the final year of the previous generation. 
• Price: Despite having a new design and updated features, the 2023 model may have a slightly lower or comparable MSRP depending on the trim level, say Reddit users. 
• Reliability: The 2022 V6 engine is known for its bulletproof reliability, while the 2023's turbocharged engine is newer and its long-term reliability is still being assessed. 

Is 2022 a good year for Lexus RX 350?

If you're looking for a reliable car that's consistently good, then you need to check out the 2022 Lexus RX 350 AWD. This car is perfect for anyone looking for a car that will last them a long time. The Lexus RX 350 has been a top seller for over a decade, and for good reason, it's safe and well priced. Al.