2012 Lexus RX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Lexus RX is largely a carryover model, with no major styling, technology, safety, or hardware updates. The main change is that Lexus recommended regular 87-octane fuel for the gas-powered RX 350.
About the 2012 Lexus RX
3rd generation RX (2010-2015), pre-refresh 2012 model year
Lexus positions the RX as the original luxury crossover: quiet, roomy, easy to drive, and tuned for comfort more than sharp handling. It is meant for daily premium use—commuting, family trips, and errands—with a polished cabin and low-stress road manners rather than a sporty personality. In this range, the RX 350 is the mainstream V6 choice, while the RX 450h adds much better fuel economy without changing the calm, upscale character that defines the model.
The RX 350 is the comfort-focused gas model, with a 270-hp V6, a six-speed automatic, and front- or all-wheel drive. The RX 450h pairs a V6 with electric motors and includes a mode for short, low-speed electric driving. Both emphasize a quiet ride and everyday comfort, with power front seats, a sliding and reclining rear seat, keyless entry, and Bluetooth audio.
What changed, by category
2012 Lexus RX specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/Seq Mde | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 32 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 270 hp | 295 hp |
| Torque | 248 lb-ft | 234 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 80.3 cu-ft | 80.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.8 in | 36.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Lexus RX compared with the 2011 model?
The main change for 2012 is that the RX 350 is recommended to use regular 87-octane fuel. The RX otherwise carries over without a major styling, technology, safety, chassis, or powertrain hardware update.
Does the 2012 Lexus RX 350 use regular gas?
Yes. Lexus recommended regular 87-octane fuel for the 2012 RX 350, making premium fuel unnecessary under the stated recommendation.
Was the 2012 Lexus RX redesigned?
No. The 2012 RX kept the third-generation design introduced for 2010, along with the same basic cabin layout and chassis. The larger styling and technology refresh arrived for 2013.
Did the 2012 Lexus RX 450h receive a major hybrid-system update?
No. The 2012 RX 450h carried over its hybrid V6, electric motors, continuously variable automatic transmission, and short-distance low-speed electric driving mode without a major hardware update.
Is the 2012 Lexus RX meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
No, not for most shoppers. The vehicles are very similar in design, cabin features, safety equipment, and mechanical layout; the clearest 2012 distinction is the RX 350’s recommendation for regular 87-octane fuel.
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2012 Lexus Rx350 Drive Models
- pressroom.lexus.com — Rx 450H Estimated 30 Mpg Combined
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus Rx 350 Seamlessly Blends Luxury And Utility
- pressroom.lexus.com — Rx 450H Quietly Rides Into 2011 With 295 Total System Horsepower
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2013 Rx Luxury Utility Vehicle Unveiled Geneva Motor Show
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2013 Lexus Rx 450H Hybrid Luxury Sport Aug12