The luxury SUV market in India just got a fresh jolt of excitement Lexus has quietly but confidently rolled out a new ‘Exquisite’ grade for its RX 350h, priced at ₹89.99 lakh (ex-showroom). For a brand that thrives on quiet sophistication and hybrid innovation, this move makes perfect sense. The new trim isn’t just another variant; it’s a strategic play to make the RX lineup more accessible while keeping all that Lexus magic intact the serenity, the craftsmanship, the tech, and of course, that signature hybrid smoothness.
A More Accessible Lexus Experience
The RX 350h Exquisite now sits at the entry point of the RX range, but don’t let the word “base” fool you. It’s still every bit a Lexus. Think of it as the same velvety hybrid drive and plush interiors — just trimmed to a level that’s slightly easier on the wallet. For buyers eyeing the German trio (Mercedes GLE, BMW X5, Audi Q7), this variant neatly carves out its niche: offering Japanese reliability and hybrid efficiency at a competitive price.
It’s also a well-timed move. The premium SUV space in India is booming, with hybrid curiosity turning into serious demand. Lexus, being one of the early adopters of hybrid tech in the luxury space, knows exactly how to play that card.
Hybrid Tech at the Core
Under the hood, the RX 350h Exquisite carries Lexus’ self-charging hybrid DNA. A 2.5-litre inline 4-cylinder petrol engine pairs with a high-output electric motor, delivering a total system output that’s tuned for balance — not brute force. The powertrain is mated to an advanced bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery, improving response time and energy efficiency.
This system lets the SUV glide quietly through city traffic, switching seamlessly between electric and petrol power depending on conditions. On highways, it delivers steady acceleration without the typical hybrid lag. The best part? You never have to plug it in — the system charges itself through regenerative braking.
Smooth Yet Capable Performance
Performance-wise, the RX 350h Exquisite isn’t built to win drag races, but it’s more than adequate for India’s mix of highways and urban sprawl. The hybrid system’s instant torque gives it that effortless pull when overtaking, while the petrol engine ensures consistency on longer stretches.
If you’re craving more performance, the RX 500h F-Sport+ variant offers a 2.4L turbo-hybrid setup with an eAxle-driven all-wheel drive — a genuine enthusiast’s delight. But for most luxury buyers, the 350h strikes the right balance between comfort, refinement, and real-world efficiency.
Interiors That Whisper Luxury
Step inside and you’re immediately wrapped in Lexus’ signature sense of calm. The cabin’s craftsmanship speaks volumes — soft-touch materials, rich finishes, and that precise Japanese attention to detail.
Highlight features:
- 10-way power-adjustable front seats
- Heated and ventilated seats (front and rear)
- Lexus premium audio system
- Dual-zone climate control
- Ambient interior lighting
The seats are designed for long-haul comfort, and the quietness inside feels almost surreal, especially when running on electric power alone. It’s the kind of space that makes you forget traffic jams exist.
Technology That Enhances Every Drive
Even as the entry variant, the Exquisite grade isn’t short on tech flair. The infotainment system gets a crisp touchscreen interface with wireless smartphone connectivity and voice command functionality. Multiple drive modes allow the driver to toggle between efficiency and responsiveness, while smart climate controls keep the cabin temperature just right.
Audiophiles will note that while the Exquisite gets the standard Lexus audio system, the higher RX 500h F-Sport+ variant takes it up a notch with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround setup — arguably one of the best car audio systems on sale.
Safety Lexus’ Core Promise
Lexus doesn’t compromise on safety, regardless of variant. The RX lineup features the full suite of Lexus Safety System+, which includes:
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
- Cross Traffic Alert
- Safe Exit Assist
These systems work quietly in the background, offering gentle nudges rather than intrusive alerts — a very “Lexus” approach to safety. It’s about enhancing driver confidence, not overwhelming them with beeps.
Ownership and Warranty
Luxury ownership goes beyond just the purchase, and Lexus knows it. The RX 350h Exquisite comes backed with:
- 8-year vehicle warranty
- 5-year roadside assistance
- Lexus Luxury Care programs
- Smart ownership plans tailored to customers
This after-sales network, though smaller than its German rivals, has earned a reputation for its personalized, concierge-like service.
Pricing Snapshot
| Model | Grade | Description | Price (₹ Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RX 350h | Exquisite | Lexus Audio System (New) | ₹89,99,000 |
| RX 350h | (New) | Mark Levinson Premium Audio (New) | ₹92,02,000 |
| RX 500h | F-Sport+ | Mark Levinson + Performance Hybrid | ₹1,09,46,000 |
The ₹89.99 lakh tag makes the Exquisite the most approachable Lexus RX yet — a move that’s likely to tempt many first-time luxury buyers looking for an eco-conscious upgrade.
Lexus’ Growing Footprint in India
Lexus India has been quietly growing. Sales have risen around 12% this year, with SUVs now forming nearly 40% of total volumes. The RX range has played a key role in this growth story, and with the Exquisite variant now on sale, Lexus has a sharper weapon to compete in the ₹80 lakh–₹1 crore bracket — a space that’s heating up fast with new launches every quarter.
In short, the RX 350h Exquisite feels like Lexus at its most strategic — blending hybrid practicality with timeless luxury, in a form that feels tailor-made for Indian roads and sensibilities.
FAQs
It’s powered by a 2.5L petrol engine paired with an electric motor for hybrid efficiency.
Yes, it features Lexus’ self-charging hybrid system that automatically switches between petrol and electric modes.
Yes, both front and rear seats come with heating and ventilation functions.
It’s a suite of advanced driver-assist features including radar cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and safe exit assist.
Yes, it uses a 2.4L turbo-hybrid engine with eAxle tech for AWD performance.
