The Lexus RX set the scene

In 1998, the Lexus RX 300 debuted as the world’s first-ever luxury crossover utility vehicle, aka a car platform endowed with an SUV body. Now in its fifth iteration, the Lexus RX is promoted as “the definitive midsize luxury SUV.” Given that Lexus sold 118,636 examples last year, it’s hard to argue the point, as no other utility vehicle in its segment comes anywhere close to its popularity. For those who cherish a comfortable, quiet, and impeccable ride along with posh trim, it’s hard to resist. Lexus even offers it in regular and hybrid models.

The lease deal

Now, making a good thing better, Lexus is offering up some attractive 36-month/10,000-mile deals with no security deposit required, although how much you pay depends on where you live. Those lucky enough to live in California can lease an RX 350 for $439 a month with $4,999 due at signing and no security deposit, thanks to a $2,000 lease incentive that works out to $628 a month. Those in South Florida or Dallas, Texas, get a similar deal, paying $539 a month with $3,999 down, or $650 a month and a $1,500 lease incentive. Those in the Detroit area also pay $539 a month, but need $4,999 down for a $1,000 lease incentive, for a total of $678 per month. New Yorkers pay the most at $599 a month with $4,999 down and a $1,000 lease incentive for a total cost of $738 per month.

RX Hybrid deals

Prefer a hybrid? Those in South Florida and Dallas can lease an RX 350h Premium AWD for $599 a month with $3,999 down, thanks to $1,000 lease cash. That totals $710 per month. Californians pay more, as hybrids tend to be more popular there. They’ll pay $659 per month with $4,999 down, and no lease cash. So, while you may save money on fuel, you’ll be paying $798 per month. It’s a similar story in Detroit, where you’ll face a $739 monthly lease with $4,999 down, no incentive for a total monthly outlay of $878. In Manhattan, there’s no lease cash either, but you’ll pay $639 with $4,999 down, making your monthly cost $778.

If you drive short distances daily and can take advantage of the RX 450h+ Luxury AWD’s 37-mile electric range, this plug-in hybrid might be your best bet. In South Florida and Dallas, you’ll get a $7,500 lease cash incentive. In California, you’ll get a $799 monthly payment with $5,999 down and a $7,500 cash incentive for a $966 monthly outlay. In Detroit, you’ll get to waive your final lease payment, while New Yorkers get the $799 monthly payment with $4,999 down and a $9,000 lease cash incentive, totaling $938 a month. Lexus does not list any lease deals for the high-performance RX 500h AWD.

What you’ll be leasing

If you’re thinking about the Lexus RX 350, it’s powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, generating 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy is about what you’d expect, with a combined city/highway EPA rating of 25 mpg with front-wheel drive and 24 mpg with all-wheel drive. Performance is average, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds with front-wheel drive and 7.2 seconds with all-wheel drive.

The RX350h AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that generate 246 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque and comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It requires 7.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, but returns an EPA-rated 36 mpg. You might want to opt instead for the RX 450h+ AWD plug-in hybrid, which boasts the same powertrain but produces 304 horsepower and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time. Yet it still manages to return an EPA-rated 35 mpg, while providing 37 miles of pure battery electric driving.

All RX models are rated to tow 3,500 pounds and require premium unleaded gasoline. A 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard; a 14-inch screen is optional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities are standard.

Final thoughts

Lexus RX lovers who live in the South are able to grab a pretty good lease deal, but it’s only good through June 2, 2025. While it’s nothing close to a high-performance SUV or a true off-road warrior, the Lexus RX does provide the comfort, fuel economy, practicality, and luxury that buyers have appreciated since 1998. However, as you can see, lease deals vary by region, so it’s best to check out the Lexus website for the offers in your particular zip code. Remember, when leasing, take into account the monthly payment cost, as well as taxes and fees, before signing.

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