2026 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid was a bold attempt by Lexus to push the boundaries of style, particularly with the RX 500h F Sport Performance model. The front end was a point of contention, featuring a large, black trapezoidal grille that replaced the traditional spindle design. This was flanked by slim headlights and lower air intakes, creating a face that some found over-stylized. The profile, however, was more restrained yet still stylish, with flat wheel flares and a character line that suggested motion. The floating roofline added a fastback appearance, culminating in a rear spoiler. The RX 500h sat on 21-inch wheels and featured a full-width taillight at the rear, with dark trim and black mirrors enhancing its sporty look. Inside, the RX 500h offered a choice of Dark Graphite or Rioja Red leather, with the latter adding a sporty touch. The interior was equipped with digital screens and soft-touch materials, providing a modern and comfortable environment for the driver.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus TX offered a more understated design with a focus on practicality and subtle luxury. The TX was available in various trims, with the 550h+ plug-in hybrid standing out due to its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. The TX retained a large grille reminiscent of the spindle design, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and full-width rear LED lighting. Roof rails added functionality for additional storage. Inside, the TX provided a choice of interior colors, with the PHEV model introducing a dark brown Peppercorn option. Ambient lighting and suede trim added warmth, though the overall material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to interior detail. The TX offered a spacious third row with ample headroom and convenient access, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid delivered a unique approach to power with its RX 500h model, which produced 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Unlike some luxury crossover-SUV rivals that relied on turbocharged V6 engines, the RX 500h utilized a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system. This setup included two electric motors, with the front motor positioned between the engine and the six-speed automatic transmission, and the rear motor integrated into an eAxle for all-wheel drive. The RX 500h achieved a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds, though it was nearly two seconds slower than competitors like the BMW X3 M50 xDrive. The vehicle featured adaptive dampers, rear-axle steering, and a firmer suspension, but the ride could become overly firm on rough roads. The RX 500h offered a Custom mode for personalized settings, but for a truly sporty experience, alternatives like the BMW X3 or Audi SQ5 were recommended.

The 2026 Lexus TX, particularly the 550h+ plug-in hybrid, offered a different performance experience with its 404 horsepower generated from a 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The TX provided multiple drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, with a charge mode for battery replenishment. The TX 550h+ delivered a smooth and quiet ride, with a suspension that absorbed bumps effectively. The AWD system was versatile, distributing power between the front and rear wheels as needed, and a Trail Mode enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. While the TX 550h+ wasn't designed for sporty handling, it excelled in providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a comfortable interior with eight-way power-adjustable sport seats that included heating and cooling functions. The seats provided ample support and room for larger frames, and the steering wheel was heated. A panoramic sunroof was standard, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, though accommodating three adults could be uncomfortable. The RX 500h provided 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row up, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet when folded, which was smaller compared to competitors like the BMW X3.

The 2026 Lexus TX excelled in interior space and practicality, offering standard luxury features such as multi-zone climate control and heated seats. The second row could be configured with captain's chairs or a bench seat, and the third row was spacious enough for adults, with a recline function and individual USB-C ports. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat required a specific sequence of lever adjustments. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The TX also boasted a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid was equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, along with a standard head-up display. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and included Lexus Intelligent Assist for voice commands. The touchscreen was responsive and driver-oriented, though the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls were frustratingly complex. A three-year Drive Connect subscription provided useful features like real-time traffic information.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen that was user-friendly, though some functions lacked refinement. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a range of subscription-based features, including a voice assistant and digital key. The backup camera provided clear visuals, and the available Advanced Park system assisted with parking tasks. The TX was well-equipped with USB ports and wireless charging options, ensuring devices remained powered.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, which included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RX received a five-star rating from the NHTSA but scored poorly in the IIHS's updated moderate front overlap test. The safety features performed well during testing, though the steering wheel controls for cruise control were challenging to use.

The 2026 Lexus TX also included the Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, with features like forward collision warning and Lane Tracing Assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though the steering wheel controls were confusing. The TX 350 and TX 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front crash test. The Proactive Driving Assist feature was often turned off due to its tendency to activate unexpectedly.