Twenty-seven might be a notorious number in the music industry, but for the Lexus RX, it signifies longevity and consistent popularity. As it cruises into its 27th year, freshly redesigned for its fifth generation, the RX continues to embody the traits that have cemented its status as a leading luxury crossover, and importantly, a consideration for those asking, “What Is The Best Mileage Suv?”.
The Lexus RX occupies a sweet spot in terms of size, fitting between compact and midsize SUVs. This spaciousness translates to generous knee- and headroom within a cabin adorned with high-quality materials and refined accents like wood and contrast stitching, delivering a truly luxurious experience. While the latest RX focuses solely on a two-row, five-passenger configuration, it compensates with a strong emphasis on efficiency, a key factor for anyone concerned about fuel costs and searching for the best mileage SUV.
Where the RX truly shines in the context of “best mileage SUV” is its diverse powertrain options. Buyers can select from a traditional gasoline engine, two levels of hybrid powertrains, and even a plug-in hybrid variant offering a useful 35-mile electric range. These choices translate to impressive fuel economy figures, ranging from 24 to 36 mpg combined. Coupled with horsepower figures from 246 to 366 depending on the chosen configuration, the RX presents a compelling blend of power and efficiency, answering the call for a practical yet economical SUV.
While outright sporty performance isn’t the RX’s primary focus, its commitment to comfort remains unwavering. The RX prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride over aggressive cornering. Even the F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive suspension, leans more towards refined agility than track-ready dynamics. For those seeking a truly driver-focused experience with sharper handling, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio or BMW X5 might be more aligned with those priorities. However, for buyers prioritizing a comfortable, luxurious, and fuel-efficient SUV, the Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Nautilus are worthy competitors, echoing the Lexus approach of offering premium features and value. Ultimately, when considering “what is the best mileage SUV” in the luxury segment, the Lexus RX, with its range of efficient powertrains and established reputation, firmly places itself in the conversation.
