2018 Lexus RX: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes in new Lexus RX models: The Enform safety and service telematics features are free for 10 years instead of one.
• Price change: The price of the Lexus RX 350 is unchanged. Prices for the RX 450h Hybrid and F Sport versions have not yet been announced; the destination charge is unchanged at $995.
• On sale: Now
• Which should you buy, 2017 or 2018? The 2018.

Changes are minimal for the RX SUV, Lexus’ most popular and best-selling model. The Enform safety and service telematics features are now free for 10 years instead of one on all Lexus RX models.

Related: 2017 Lexus RX 350 Review

Lexus’ same lineup returns from last year, with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions of the RX 350 and the all-wheel-drive-only RX 450h hybrid. F Sport versions of each feature a firmer suspension setting, 20-inch wheels, and special exterior and interior design cues.

All Lexus RX models use a 3.5-liter V-6 engine; it makes 295 horsepower in the RX 350, and the RX 450h’s total system output is 308 hp. All models seat five in two rows. A third-row seat isn’t an option.

The front-wheel-drive 2018 RX 350 starts at $44,215, including the $995 destination charge, and the all-wheel-drive RX 350 starts at $45,615.

The RX relies on the attributes that made Lexus a hit among luxury buyers: quality, refinement, reliability and a satisfying ownership experience. Its styling distinguishes it more than its driving manners, and the Remote Touch multimedia controller is still a source of frustration. And even though it starts at more than $44,000, leather seats are still available only as an option.