Anthony FongaroWhen Lexus slaps “500” and “F SPORT Performance” on the back of a vehicle, expectations are set sky-high. Think of the throaty V8-powered IS 500—an unapologetic expression of power wrapped in tailored sheet metal. So when the same badging appears on the RX, the brand’s stalwart luxury crossover, enthusiasts naturally take notice.
But the RX 500h F SPORT is a different kind of beast. Instead of chasing redline with a V8, it leans into electrified performance with a turbocharged hybrid drivetrain. The result? A sportier, more powerful alternative to the RX 350h that’s as comfortable chasing canyon curves as it is cruising the interstate. Yet after a week behind the wheel, one has to ask—does more performance make it the better buy?
RX 500h F SPORT First Impressions: Sharpened Style
This RX 500h F SPORT arrived dressed to impress in Iridium silver with blacked-out trim, pronounced fender flares, and dark 21-inch alloy wheels. The F SPORT treatment is immediately apparent: a gloss black spindle grille, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, and a full-width rear light bar underscore its aggressive presence. Subtle F badges on the flanks and a roof spoiler complete the athletic look—one that distances itself from the more conservative silhouette of its hybrid siblings.
Interior: Sport Meets Sophistication
Open the door and you’re met with Rioja Red leather upholstery, contrasted by Dark Graphite aluminum trim. The sport seats are heated, ventilated, and beautifully contoured—though larger drivers may find the aggressive bolstering a bit snug.
At the helm, the steering wheel is flanked by paddle shifters and Lexus’s unique unlabeled haptic buttons, which project controls onto the head-up display. The 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is intuitive and responsive, with shortcut keys keeping navigation simple. The optional Mark Levinson sound system delivers concert-level clarity, and the panoramic sunroof bathes the cabin in natural light.
Luxury extends to rear passengers too, with available heated and ventilated seats that can be folded electronically from the trunk. USB-C ports, a digital rearview mirror, and a 360-degree camera further elevate the cabin tech.
Performance: Electrified and Engaging
Beneath the sculpted hood lies a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid, paired with two electric motors and a six-speed automatic. Together, they churn out 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, pushing the RX 500h from 0–60 in a brisk 5.5 seconds. Power is channeled through Lexus’s DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, providing surefooted grip even when the road gets twisty.
But this isn’t a back-road bruiser. Even in Sport mode, the RX 500h F SPORT favors composure over raw aggression. Steering is well-weighted, but there’s noticeable body roll and understeer when pushed. For most drivers, Normal mode strikes the right balance between performance and comfort.
The trade-off? Fuel economy. While the RX 500h is rated at 27 MPG, real-world returns hovered closer to 25 MPG. Compared to the more efficient RX 350h, that’s a notable dip for a roughly $10,000 premium.
Safety and Technology
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is standard, offering adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. A driver monitoring system, however, proved a bit overzealous—frequently beeping for even momentary glances away from the road.
Lexus RX 500h F SPORT Price and Value
Starting at $64,800, our test vehicle came optioned to the tune of $74,795. Notable extras included:
- Convenience Package ($1,670)
- Triple-Beam Headlights ($1,565)
- Mark Levinson Audio ($1,160)
- Rear Heated/Ventilated Seats ($1,230)
- Technology Package ($475)
- Premium Paint ($500)
- Kick Sensor Tailgate ($150)
It’s a compelling package, but not without internal competition. The RX 350h delivers a smoother ride, superior efficiency (37 MPG), and similar luxury appointments—at a significantly lower cost.
Final Thoughts: Performance vs Practicality
The 2025 Lexus RX 500h F SPORT Performance makes a bold statement. It’s a stylish, quick, and tech-rich SUV that doesn’t scream hybrid, but subtly flexes its muscles in all the right places. If you value sharper styling and quicker acceleration over ultimate efficiency, it’s worth a look.
But if your definition of luxury leans more toward serenity and long-haul savings, the RX 350h remains the smarter, more balanced buy.
