“This Lexus is our fourth one of this same model-an RX- and they have all performed well. We have been well pleased with the brand and model.”
2016 Lexus RX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Lexus RX is an all-new, fourth-generation redesign. Its biggest change is a roomier and stiffer new body, joined by stronger powertrains, bolder styling, and newly available driver-safety technology.
About the 2016 Lexus RX
4th gen (2016-2022), first year/full redesign
Lexus positions the RX as a luxury utility vehicle that mixes SUV usefulness with the comfort and polish of a premium sedan. The core appeal is not hard-edged performance; it is quietness, easy daily driving, a high-quality cabin, and family-friendly cargo flexibility in a two-row package. That formula is what made the RX a segment-defining vehicle, and Lexus leans on that identity here, with the hybrid adding efficiency and the F SPORT trims adding a sharper look and feel rather than changing the RX’s comfort-first mission.
The RX 350 is the comfort-focused core model, with a 295-hp V6, an eight-speed automatic, and a power rear door. F Sport versions add a firmer adaptive suspension, sport seats, and more aggressive body trim, while the RX 450h pairs a 308-hp hybrid system with navigation, premium audio, and heated and ventilated front seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The RX 350 receives a 295-hp 3.5-liter V6 and an eight-speed automatic across the lineup. The RX 450h hybrid rises to 308 total system horsepower, and an RX 450h F Sport joins the range for the first time.
Styling
The redesigned RX gets a much bolder exterior and a new cabin. The first RX 450h F Sport adds sportier body trim, while the prior RX 350 F Sport Crafted Line is discontinued.
Safety
Lexus Safety System+ becomes optional for 2016. The RX 450h also makes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert standard.
Tech
The RX 450h gains a richer standard equipment list, including an 8-inch navigation display, 12-speaker premium audio, and smartphone connectivity.
Structural
A longer wheelbase adds rear-seat room. The redesigned body is stiffer and uses added noise-reduction measures for a quieter cabin.
2016 Lexus RX specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Hybrid, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 31 mpg | 19 mpg | 30 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 26 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 295 hp | 295 hp | ||
| Torque | 267 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 56.3 cu-ft | 55.9 cu-ft | 56.3 cu-ft | 55.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Video Input | ||||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2016 Lexus RX a full redesign?
Yes. The 2016 Lexus RX begins the fourth generation with a new body and cabin, a longer wheelbase, more rear-seat room, stronger powertrains, and a stiffer, quieter structure.
What changed under the hood for the 2016 Lexus RX?
The gas RX 350 moves to a 295-hp 3.5-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic, while the RX 450h produces 308 total system horsepower from its hybrid system.
Is Lexus Safety System+ standard on the 2016 RX?
No. Lexus Safety System+ is optional on the 2016 RX. It includes features designed to help warn the driver of certain hazards and assist with braking or lane awareness.
What is new about the 2016 Lexus RX 450h F Sport?
The 2016 RX 450h F Sport is the first RX hybrid with the full F Sport treatment. It combines the 308-hp hybrid system with a firmer adaptive suspension, Sport S+ mode, sport seats, digital gauges, and more aggressive exterior trim.
How is the 2016 RX 450h equipped differently from the prior model?
The redesigned 2016 RX 450h has a richer standard equipment list. Notable additions include navigation, 12-speaker premium audio, heated and ventilated front seats, a power moonroof, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
2016 Lexus RX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Lexus RX.
4.4
2016 Lexus RX
(374 reviews)
“Highly recommend. Amazing to drive with so much comfort and smooth ride. Excellent for family”
“This is the car I wanted for a few years. The styling is beautiful, it drives and handles like a dream. The only thing is this year model doesn't have Apple CarPlay but I knew that going in. Still worth it.”
Sources
- lexus.com — Models / 2016 / MY16 Lexus RX and Lexus RX Hybrid Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus 2016 Rx Redefines Segment Extended
- lexus.com — Models / 2015 / Lexus RX Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Rx 350 450H Standard Safety Technology
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus 2016 Rx 450H Product Specs