2013 Lexus RX: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2013 Lexus RX is a mid-cycle refresh led by Lexus’ new spindle-grille front end. This year also brings the first RX 350 F Sport, making 2013 a meaningful update rather than a full redesign.

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About the 2013 Lexus RX

3rd generation RX (2010-2015), 2013 mid-cycle refresh and first year of the RX 350 F Sport.

Lexus positions the RX as the original luxury crossover: a five-passenger SUV that blends the flexibility of a utility vehicle with the comfort and quietness of a luxury sedan. Its core appeal is easy daily driving, a hushed cabin, upscale materials, and practical cargo space rather than sharp, sporty handling. In this generation, the RX stands out by offering both conventional V6 and hybrid powertrains without changing the roomy, comfort-first character that made the model popular.

The RX 350 remains the comfortable, everyday luxury model, with a 270-hp V6, a quiet cabin, and a sliding and reclining rear seat. The new AWD RX 350 F Sport adds an eight-speed automatic, paddle shifters, and a firmer sport-tuned suspension, while the RX 450h pairs a 295-hp hybrid system with EV, Eco, Normal, and Sport modes.

What changed, by category

Styling

The full lineup gets Lexus’ spindle grille, a revised front bumper, redesigned headlamps with LED daytime running lights, updated rear lighting, and new interior trim accents. The steering wheel and center console are also redesigned. Roof rails shift from standard to optional.

Powertrain

The new RX 350 F Sport joins the lineup with standard AWD, an eight-speed automatic, and paddle shifters. The RX 450h gains a Sport mode for quicker throttle and steering response, while the regular RX 350’s V6 and six-speed automatic carry over.

Tech

USB/iPod integration becomes standard across the lineup, and models with navigation receive updated multimedia features. A power rear door also becomes standard.

Structural

The new RX 350 F Sport receives its own sport-tuned suspension with front and rear performance dampers. The underlying platform and basic body structure carry over.

2013 Lexus RX specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Lexus RXRX 35015 in stock	2013 Lexus RXRX 450h1 in stock	2013 Lexus RXRX 350 F Sport1 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.5 Liter	V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter	V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd w/Multi-Mode	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, 8-Spd
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Hybrid	Gas
MPG City	18 mpg	32 mpg	18 mpg
MPG Highway	25 mpg	28 mpg	26 mpg
Horsepower	270 hp	295 hp	270 hp
Torque	248 lb-ft	234 lb-ft	248 lb-ft
Max Towing	3500 lb	3500 lb	3500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	80.3 cu-ft	80.3 cu-ft	80.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	36.8 in	36.8 in	36.8 in
Seats	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Headlights
Alarm System
Blindspot Sensors
Park Assist
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
LED Headlights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Steering Wheel
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2014 Lexus RX compares

The 2014 Lexus RX is largely a carryover after the 2013 refresh. The main update is Siri Eyes Free joining the feature list, alongside a few smaller safety and equipment changes.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2013 Lexus RX fully redesigned?

No. The 2013 Lexus RX is a mid-cycle update of the third-generation model, not a full redesign. It keeps the same basic platform but receives a noticeably different front end, updated lighting, cabin revisions, and equipment changes.

What is different about the 2013 Lexus RX 350 F Sport?

The RX 350 F Sport is new for 2013 and is the more driver-focused RX. It has standard AWD, an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters, a sport-tuned suspension with performance dampers, a mesh grille, a unique front bumper, and a black leather-trimmed interior.

What changed on the 2013 Lexus RX 450h hybrid?

The 2013 RX 450h gains a Sport drive mode for quicker throttle and steering response. It also receives the lineup’s refreshed styling, redesigned steering wheel and center console, standard USB/iPod integration, and standard power rear door.

How does the 2013 Lexus RX differ from the 2012 model?

The 2013 RX differs mainly through refreshed exterior styling, cabin updates, standard USB connectivity, and the addition of the RX 350 F Sport. It also makes the power rear door standard, moves roof rails from standard to optional, and gives the RX 450h a new Sport mode.

Did the regular 2013 Lexus RX 350 get a new engine?

No. The regular 2013 RX 350 carries over its 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. The powertrain news is the new F Sport model’s eight-speed automatic and the RX 450h hybrid’s added Sport mode.