Lexus UX Vs. RX: Differences In Design, Tech, And Performance
Lexus UX vs. RX at a Glance
- The Lexus RX is the larger midsize model, while the UX is a subcompact crossover.
- The RX offers four powerful engines with towing capability. The UX engine is designed for pure efficiency and has better MPG ratings.
- While the UX and RX have great standard and available convenience technology, the RX offers somewhat better screenspace and cabin software.
- Safety is largely shared across models, like with the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite. The RX has slightly better access to features like Intuitive Parking Assist.
If you're searching for a luxury SUV that delivers stellar performance and comes with advanced safety systems and the latest technology, our Lexus UX vs. RX comparison can simplify the choice. How does the subcompact UX explore more efficiently with its 2.0-liter hybrid engine? What options of the 14 RX trim levels fit your family the best? Check out the size specs, engines, performance, and features of the UX vs. RX here to find out which Lexus SUV to buy with the features and size you need. After checking out this Lexus SUV comparison guide, come for a test drive at DARCARS Lexus of Englewood.
Lexus UX vs. Lexus RX Specs, Compared
To begin, a look under the hood says a lot about the purposes of these two SUV models. As a subcompact SUV, the new Lexus UX for sale currently utilizes a 2.0-liter hybrid inline-four as its sole powertrain, delivering 196 horsepower and incredible fuel efficiency. The RX, meanwhile, gives you a wide selection of options. From a 2.4-liter turbo inline-four to the 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Lexus RX horsepower ranges from a 246-horsepower mild hybrid engine to a 366-horsepower option. This gives the RX a smoother driving experience across the lineup, but the UX has stronger MPG ratings, saving you fuel as you travel.
Lexus RX vs. UX Summary Chart
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| Model | Lexus UX | Lexus RX |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
|
|
| Max Horsepower | 196 | 366 |
| Transmission |
|
|
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Hybrid) (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 45 / 41 / 43 | 37 / 34 / 36 (2.5L hybrid I-4) |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD | FWD, AWD |
| Towing Capacity | Not recommended | 3,500 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 177 in | 192.5 in |
| Width | 72.4 in | 75.6 in |
| Height | 60.6 in | 67.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 103.9 in | 112.2 in |
| Headroom (Without Moonroof) (Front / Rear) | 37.2 / 36.3 in | 39.5 / 38.6 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42 / 33.1 in | 41.1 / 37.4 in |
| Cargo Volume (Min / Max) | 17.1 / – cu ft | 29.6 / 46.2 cu ft |
Lexus UX vs. RX Size
As you can see in the chart above, when it comes to size, the new Lexus RX for sale is significantly larger than its highly maneuverable sibling. At 192.5 inches, this midsize SUV is over a foot longer than the subcompact UX, giving it more cargo space, rear-row legroom, and head space to work with.
However, in the case of the UX, the size difference is a blessing. This model is catered for busy urban streets, where its 177-inch size allows it to park and navigate rough intersections easily. It also has more front legroom, making it perfect for couples who want extra seats for guests or short commutes.
Lexus UX vs. RX Trims
Lexus vehicles offer a variety of options throughout the lineup of SUVs, and you can find a great selection with both the Lexus UX Hybrid and Lexus RX. From the base RX 350 to the intense 500h Black Line Special Edition, the Lexus RX has six gas-powered and eight hybrid options. That's a total of 14 configurations to choose from when you shop our Lexus RX specials.
- 350
- 350 Premium
- 350 Premium+
- 350 Luxury
- 350 F SPORT Design
- 350 F SPORT Handling AWD
- 350h AWD
- 350h Premium AWD
- 350h Premium+ AWD
- 350h Luxury AWD
- 350h F SPORT Design AWD
- 450h+ Luxury AWD
- 500h F SPORT Performance AWD
- 500h Black Line Special Edition
With the UX 250h being phased out, the UX 300h lineup offers four distinct options with its new and improved engine.
- 300h
- 300h Premium
- 300h F SPORT Design
- 300h F SPORT Handling
Lexus RX vs. UX Interior & Safety Features
What shared features will you find with both the Lexus RX and Lexus UX? Both have standard comforts and conveniences like eight-way power-adjustable front seats and SmartAccess with push-button Start and Stop. You also get wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ with both luxury SUVs, as well as a backup camera, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and leather-covered shift knob.
The Lexus UX interior features an available 12.3-inch multi-information display, 12.3-inch touchscreen interface for the UX Premium and F SPORT Handling, a 10-speaker premium sound system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror, all designed to heighten your comfort as you climb in level. The Lexus RX adjusts those benefits upwards; the 14-inch touchscreen interface is available on the larger SUV, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson® is the upgraded audio experience. You will notice that some features remain available options on both SUVs, such as Active Sound Control, ventilated seating, and power moonroofs.
Safety is also similar, with both Lexus options utilizing the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 to optimize your protection with Pre-Collision Detection, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, and more. However, the RX does offer some additional functionalities at the highest levels, like a Panoramic View Monitor, which highlights its place as the more luxury-oriented of the two SUVs. In either case, you'll feel well-protected by a coordinated array of safety features once you climb behind the wheel of either model.
Explore the Lexus RX vs. UX Differences at DARCARS Lexus of Englewood
Shopping for a quality vehicle involves weighing many pros and cons, which is why the best opportunity to decide is after a test drive. Contact our team and schedule an appointment to see if the nimble and efficient UX or luxurious and feature-rich RX is the best option to elevate your garage. If you'd like, we can compare these SUVs to other popular brands, like in our Lexus RX vs. Volvo XC60 guide.
Once you decide on your preferred Lexus SUV, our experienced team is ready to take the next steps. For example, we can draft lease contracts to let you bring the Lexus RX home without committing to a financing plan or help you browse Lexus UX deals for your favorite model. We can't wait for you to join our community of dedicated fans of luxury vehicle ownership, and we will proudly lend our assistance at every step of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Lexus UX and the RX?
The primary differences between the Lexus UX and the RX are in terms of size and options. The Lexus UX is a subcompact SUV that comes in four hybrid trims. The Lexus RX is a midsize SUV, making it the larger of the two by over 15 inches in length, and comes in 14 trims, ranging from gas to mild and plug-in hybrid.
How much bigger is the Lexus RX than UX?
As a midsize SUV, the Lexus RX is significantly larger than the subcompact UX. The RX is 192.5 inches in length compared to the 177-inch length of the UX. The 75.6-inch width and 67.3-inch height of the RX is a similar story; the 72.4-inch width and 60.6-inch height of the UX are best for city driving.
Is the Lexus UX or RX faster?
The Lexus RX is faster than the Lexus UX across all variants. The UX offers a 0-60 mph time of eight seconds, perfect for careful urban driving or the interstate during a commute. The base RX accelerates to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the high-end 500h F SPORT Performance AWD trim reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.