When did Lexus change the RX body style?

The most significant body-style change for the RX occurred with the 2016 model year, when Lexus launched the fourth generation with a sharper silhouette and the brand’s signature spindle grille.

The RX line has evolved through five generations since its 1998 debut. This article traces when those exterior design shifts happened, with emphasis on the 2016 makeover and the latest 2023 redesign, to explain how the model’s look has evolved over time.

Generational timeline

Here is a concise timeline showing the RX generations and the years they spanned, highlighting when major styling updates occurred.

• The first generation: 1998–2003


• The second generation: 2003–2009


• The third generation: 2009–2015


• The fourth generation: 2016–2022


• The fifth generation: 2023–present

Note: Within these spans, Lexus occasionally issued mid-cycle facelifts that refined details without delivering a wholesale body redesign.

What changed in the 2016 fourth generation

Ahead of the 2016 model year, the RX underwent a full redesign that altered its silhouette, front fascia, and interior packaging, establishing the look that defined the model for much of the next decade.

• New platform and chassis engineering to support updated powertrains and safety tech


• Aggressive spindle grille and sharper, angular body lines


• Lower, more coupe-like roofline and revised rear design


• Completely redesigned interior with improved materials and technology integration


• Introduction of both gasoline and hybrid powertrains with improved efficiency

The 2016 redesign unified Lexus’s RX styling language across the lineup and set the template for the model through the late 2010s, balancing sharp aesthetics with modern interior tech and efficiency.

What happened with the fifth generation (2023 model year)

In 2023, Lexus launched the fifth generation RX, built on a new GA-K platform with updated styling cues, a refreshed interior, and expanded powertrain options, including turbocharged and electrified variants.

• New GA-K platform architecture for improved rigidity and handling


• Longer wheelbase and upgraded suspension for enhanced ride comfort and space


• Redesigned exterior with bolder lines and refined aerodynamics


• Updated interior featuring larger screens, enhanced driver-assistance tech, and premium materials


• New powertrains including turbocharged and electrified options

The fifth generation marks Lexus’s ongoing evolution of the RX’s shape and technology, continuing to position the RX as a competitive two-row crossover in many markets.

Summary

Overall, the RX’s most transformative body-style shift occurred with the 2016 introduction of the fourth generation, followed by a significant redesign for the 2023 fifth generation. These changes reflect Lexus’s focus on sharper styling, upgraded interiors, and modern powertrains to stay competitive in the crowded crossover market.

When did Lexus RX change body style?

The Lexus RX has had major body style changes for the 2010 (third generation) and 2016 (fourth generation) model years, with a full redesign for the 2023 model year (fifth generation). The most recent significant redesign occurred for the 2023 model year, which brought new exterior styling, a new platform, and new hybrid options. 

• 2010: The third generation introduced a new exterior and interior design, grew slightly in size, and saw powertrain updates. 
• 2016: The fourth generation received a full redesign with a more aggressive and modern look, featuring a larger spindle grille and sharper lines. 
• 2023: The fifth generation launched with a new platform and a completely redesigned exterior and interior, which included a new "spindle body" appearance, a longer wheelbase, and a lowered roofline. 

When did Lexus is body style change?

The redesigned 2014 IS introduced the third generation of Lexus' compact sports sedan. It boasted a number of practical improvements over the previous-gen IS, including an increased overall length and wheelbase for more interior space.

What year will the RX 350 be redesigned?

The Lexus RX 350 was redesigned for the 2026 model year, featuring a new exterior and interior design with an illuminated Lexus script and a new illuminated grille. The 2026 model is expected to be available for purchase in late 2025.
 
You can watch this video to see a first look at the 2026 Lexus RX 350: 59sAuto Om TVYouTube · Sep 28, 2025
Redesign details

• Exterior: The 2026 model has a redesigned spindle grille, an illuminated Lexus script on the front and rear, and new continuous LED tail lights. 
• Interior: The cabin features a new digital display, luxurious materials, and a focus on futuristic design. 
• Technology: Wireless phone charging is now standard on all models. 
• Powertrain: While specific details are still emerging, it is expected to include a turbocharged engine and hybrid options. 
• Availability: The 2026 models are projected to begin launching in late 2025. 

What years to avoid Lexus RX 350?

Years to avoid for the Lexus RX 350 include 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 due to common problems like oil leaks, engine issues, brake failures, and faulty sensors. The 2010-2012 models are particularly prone to a ruptured oil cooler line that can cause engine failure, while the 2007-2009 models had issues with cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder. The 2016 and 2017 models saw recalls related to airbags and issues with rain sensors, notes CoPilot.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Lexus RX 350 and common problems in different generations: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 22, 2024
Years to avoid and why

• 2007–2009: These models are known for cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder that can lead to brake failure. 
• 2010–2012: A common and severe problem with these years is the oil cooler line, which can rupture and lead to engine failure. 
• 2016–2017: The 2016 model year had airbag recalls and was the first year of a new generation, which can lead to early bugs. The 2017 model had issues with the rain sensor and wipers, in addition to having its own airbag recalls. 

What to look for instead

• 2011–2015: These models generally have fewer issues, with the 2013–2015 models in particular being noted as more reliable. 
• 2018–2022: Models from these years are considered more reliable, especially those with the redesigned exterior. 
• 2020–2022: These are considered among the most reliable years, with the 2020 model year being a good choice. 

This video discusses the best Lexus RX 350 years to buy: 59sThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024