2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Jerry Perez

The 2026 Lexus RX is a pillar in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, and for good reason. It’s comfortable, quiet, and easy to drive. In fact, it’s almost too easy to drive—so much so that you can practically fall asleep at the wheel. The RX is available in three flavors: gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. My tester came in 500h F Sport guise, meaning it’s the range-topping hybrid before crossing into plug-in territory.

The F Sport Performance model adds quite a bit of oomph to the RX’s look and feel. Its two-motor hybrid system and 2.4-liter turbo-four engine produce a total of 366 horsepower, compared to the non-F Sport’s 295. In terms of styling, it’s more aggressive, bolder, and inside, very red. It’s also a bit of a rolling contradiction.

2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport exterior 2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport side profile Jerry Perez

While this model is a go-to for folks looking for a luxe SUV, buyers must beware that while some RX models may look sporty—and in this case of the F Sport Performance, it boasts a healthy hp figure—this isn’t an SUV that caters to enthusiasts. This extra power is primarily designed to help with passing on the highway or to feel some sense of sportiness when driving around town. Folks looking for better handling, steering feedback, or sporty dynamics should consider its crosstown rival, the Acura MDX Type S, or go European.

Cons

  • Slightly contradicting exterior looks. The elegant and understated design clashes a bit too much with the F Sport elements, such as the body molding, larger black wheels, and orange calipers. It comes off a bit try-hard.
  • Mismatched cabin styling. It’s a similar situation inside the cabin. The red interior is too much, and it doesn’t match the RX’s overall persona.
  • Overly bolstered F Sport seats. The F Sport seats are too heavily bolstered. This isn’t the canyon-carving SUV its seats would lead you to believe. They are downright uncomfortable, especially if you are on the larger side.
  • Handling doesn’t match the sporty promise. Even with the adaptive suspension, the F Sport package’s tire-and-wheel combo does not offer much better sporty handling. Ride quality suffers a bit in normal driving conditions.
  • Confusing tech. Touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons and an overall confusing infotainment interface add unnecessary frustration.

2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport interior 2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport dashboard 2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport center console