2022 Lexus RX: What's New and Notable?
By Brett Foote

Lexus continues to improve the popular RX with another round of updates.

 

Well, this video may help. The window sticker shows it. I don't think anything big except a few new colors like Iridium (almost like silver lining metallic).

I didn't see the fog lamps coming back for the 2022 model without the lights package. I'm glad I purchased a pre-owned one.

 

Looks like they added a deep phone slot/pocket just forward of the cupholders - nice touch! (or is that where the wireless charger is now located?)

EDIT: I see the 2021 had this phone holder slot (and not as a wireless charger - that was still in the cubbyhole)

 

I have that in my 2020.

 

The changes for 2022 RX are:

• Cloudburst Gray and Iridium for all models
• Grecian Water for F SPORT models
• Standalone fog lamps to provide the option for added lighting on any grade or package without additional add-ons.
• Black Line Includes features of the RX Premium Package available in Eminent White Pearl or Caviar with Black interior

​​​​​​​Press Release
Black Line Press Release



I wonder how many of the following features of the 2022 NX will make it to the 2023 RX:

• Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, Digital Latch with Safe Exit Assist with the following new features:
  • Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – helps support collision avoidance within the lane by providing gentle braking and steering operation.
  • Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle.
  • Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if a driver turns left or right in front of an oncoming pedestrian or cyclist.
  • Oncoming Vehicle Detection added to the Pre-Collision System – designed to alert the driver, and, potentially activate automatic emergency braking to help avoid a frontal collision.
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management – maintains a cruising speed in alignment with the flow of traffic while managing speed on curves.
  • Digital Latch system enables doors to open smoothly at the touch of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle. And by scanning the environment, Safe Exit Assist alerts the driver and passengers to avoid the risk of accidental contact with vehicles and cyclists, helping ensure safe openings and closings.
• Digital Key
• Digital Mirror provides a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle.
• Bigger multimedia screen (the 2022 NX has an option for 14" screen)
• Bigger MID screen (the 2022 NX has 7" screen)
• Plugin Hybrid
• nature-inspired Thematic Ambient Illumination (just a bunch of color synchronized LEDs around the cabin)

 

^ are they removing any of the existing grays or silvers? By my count that’s now 5: atomic silver, nebula gray, moonbeam beige, iridium and cloudburst gray.

I think an F sport in the iridium and cloudburst is going to look gorgeous but overall I’m happy I didn’t wait until 2022 if these are the only changes.

 

Not much updates ... waiting for 5th Gen

 

I think I heard someone at my local dealer mention that the moonbeam beige might be discontinued for 2022. Could be wrong though.

 

Here is the 2022 RX Brochure. They do show four silverish colors:

• atomic silver
• iridium
• nebula grey pearl
• cloudburst gray

No moonbeam beige.

 

Thanks, looks like the new grays aren't available in the F-Sports.

 

2022 may be our last chance to buy a RX with the bulletproof V6 engine. Looks like our choice in 2023 is limited to 4-bangers. Sad!

 

I test drove the 2021 Highlander Hybrid, it has the same engine 4 cylinder as the Rav4. On steep hills, it seems to struggle. Not sure if Lexus version would be a lot better.

Very sad if no V6.

 

I understand the move to turbo 4s given higher mandated fleet average MPGs. But, I am very happy with the 3.5 in our 2020 and 2021 RXs. Driving a turbo 4 is a different experience. Not one I have enjoyed in a large SUV.

 

The V6 is one of the reasons that I came to the RX. Not a huge fan of the turbo 4. Get them while you can.

 

The car manufactures complying with government mandates our choices will be 4 cylinders /turbos, hybrids, & EV's until the next wave of mandates.
Manual drive transmission & v8's are being phased out now the v6's aren't too far behind.
For those of us who still have these cars enjoy them or buy one while you can.
Not sure how this affects trucks which need the power of larger engines. Guess Google could be my friend, but that will be on another day.