Lexus Has Unveiled A Significantly More Budget-Friendly Plug-In Hybrid | Carscoops

      The 2026 RX introduces a new entry-level plug-in hybrid, starting at $66,680.

      Lexus has unveiled the 2026 RX, which includes additional equipment and a fresh appearance package.

      Additionally, there’s a new RX 450h+ Premium that is priced at $6,630 less than the Luxury version.

      The crossover offers three powertrains and begins at $51,175, which is an increase of $600 compared to last year’s model.

      Lexus’ top-selling vehicle is entering 2026 with several minor updates. These adjustments are appreciated as customers will benefit from extra standard features, an appearance package, and a broader range of plug-in hybrids.

      Set to launch later this year, the 2026 RX will include a standard wireless smartphone charger. This addition is timely, as it seems unreasonable to charge extra for a phone charger in a luxury crossover priced over $50,000.

      On the design front, the F Sport Handling and F Sport Performance trims can be enhanced with a new appearance package derived from last year’s Black Line Special Edition. Models featuring this package will have an Ultra White, Cloudburst Gray, Iridium, Incognito, or Caviar exterior, accented in black, along with black 21-inch wheels complemented by orange brake calipers. Additionally, buyers will enjoy a black interior with gray contrast stitching.

      Moreover, the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid range is now adding a new Premium trim. Priced at $66,680, it is significantly more affordable than the $73,310 RX 450h+ Luxury.

      While Lexus has not provided extensive details, the RX 450h+ Premium is expected to come well-equipped with features such as a power liftgate, a moonroof, and 21-inch wheels. Customers can also look forward to heated and ventilated front seats covered in NuLuxe upholstery.

      Key highlights include a heated steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 14-inch infotainment system, along with a power steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a 12-speaker audio system.

      As before, there is an RX model for everyone, with Lexus offering seven trims and four powertrains. The company’s inconsistency continued, mistakenly stating that the RX 350 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine; it actually features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 hp (205 kW / 279 PS) and 317 lb-ft (429 Nm) of torque.

      Customers can also choose from two hybrids: the 350h and the 500h. The former offers 246 hp (183 kW / 249 PS) and 233 lb-ft (316 Nm) of torque, while the latter boasts 366 hp (273 kW / 371 PS) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm).

      Finally, the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, three electric motors, and an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a combined output of 304 hp (227 kW / 308 PS) and an electric-only range of 38 miles (61 km).

      Pricing begins at $51,175, including a $1,450 destination fee. This reflects a $600 increase which seems to apply across the board.

      2026 Lexus RX Pricing