Lexus, the premium arm of Toyota, has made waves in the Indian luxury SUV market with the launch of a more affordable ‘Exquisite’ trim for the RX 350h hybrid model. Priced starting at around ₹90 Lakh, this new variant brings the sophisticated appeal of the RX lineup to a broader audience without compromising on the brand’s hallmark luxury, performance, and advanced technology. For Indian buyers aspiring for world-class hybrid SUVs, this move democratizes access to Lexus excellence, challenging competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X5 in the sub-₹1 crore segment. The RX 350h Exquisite trim combines self-charging hybrid efficiency, plush interiors, and cutting-edge safety features, positioning it as a smart choice amid rising fuel costs and environmental concerns.
This introduction reflects Lexus’s strategic push into India’s growing luxury hybrid market, where demand for fuel-efficient yet opulent vehicles is surging. With over 20% year-on-year growth in luxury SUV sales in India, the RX 350h Exquisite arrives at a perfect time, offering premium ownership at a price point that undercuts many rivals while delivering unmatched refinement.
Key Features of the Exquisite Trim
The Exquisite trim strips away some higher-end luxuries from top variants but retains core elements that define the Lexus RX experience. Power comes from the proven 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, delivering 240 horsepower and seamless all-wheel-drive capability. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes around 7.7 seconds, blending brisk performance with whisper-quiet operation thanks to electric-only driving modes.
Interior highlights include leatherette upholstery, a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. Ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and powered front seats with memory functions elevate daily drives. The boot space measures 612 litres, expandable for family hauls.
Safety is robust with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, pre-collision system, and 10 airbags. Fuel efficiency stands at an impressive 23 kmpl in city conditions, making it one of the most economical luxury hybrids.
Powertrain and Performance Specs Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Petrol + Electric Hybrid |
| Total Output | 240 PS |
| Transmission | eCVT |
| Drive Type | AWD |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (ARAI) | 19.4 kmpl combined |
Pricing Breakdown and Value Proposition
Starting at ₹90 Lakh ex-showroom, the Exquisite trim is significantly more accessible than the Luxury variant at over ₹1.10 Crore. On-road prices in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai hover around ₹1.05 Crore, including taxes and insurance. This pricing strategy targets upwardly mobile professionals and families seeking luxury without the premium tag.
Compared to rivals, the RX 350h Exquisite offers better value: the Mercedes GLE 300d starts at ₹1.15 Crore with diesel power but lags in hybrid efficiency, while the BMW X5 xDrive30d is pricier at ₹1.20 Crore. Lexus sweetens the deal with a 5-year unlimited km warranty, 8-year hybrid battery warranty, and complimentary services.
Price Comparison Table
| Model | Starting Price (Ex-Showroom) | Fuel Type | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX 350h Exquisite | ₹90 Lakh | Hybrid | Best efficiency, luxury value |
| Mercedes GLE 300d | ₹1.15 Crore | Diesel | Brand prestige |
| BMW X5 xDrive30d | ₹1.20 Crore | Diesel | Sporty dynamics |
| Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge | ₹1.12 Crore | Plug-in Hybrid | Plug-in capability |
| Audi Q7 45 TDI | ₹1.05 Crore | Diesel | Quattro AWD |
Design and Exterior Highlights
The RX 350h Exquisite sports the evolved spindle grille, slim LED headlamps, and 20-inch alloy wheels, maintaining Lexus’s bold aesthetic. At 4.89 metres long with a 2.85-metre wheelbase, it commands road presence while navigating urban traffic adeptly. New colour options like Heat Cape and Midnight Blue add exclusivity.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside to a sanctuary of serenity with the signature Lexus ‘Takumi’ craftsmanship. Soft-touch materials, real wood accents, and a panoramic sunroof create an airy cabin. The Mark Levinson premium audio system with 17 speakers is optional, but standard 10-speaker setup delivers immersive sound. Rear seats recline with ample legroom for three adults, ideal for long highway journeys.
Connectivity shines with over-the-air updates, voice commands in Hindi and English, and a heads-up display projecting speed and navigation.
Interior Dimensions Table
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up) | 612 litres |
| Boot Space (Seats Down) | 1694 litres |
| Front Legroom | 1045 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 950 mm |
| Shoulder Room (Rear) | 1460 mm |
Driving Dynamics and Hybrid Efficiency
Lexus engineers tuned the RX 350h for Indian roads, with adaptive suspension smoothing potholes and highways alike. The hybrid system switches seamlessly between petrol and electric power, emitting minimal noise and zero tailpipe emissions in EV mode. Real-world efficiency often exceeds 20 kmpl, slashing running costs to under ₹4 per km.
Multi-terrain select modes handle monsoons and light off-road trails confidently.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Lexus prioritizes safety with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating equivalent. Features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors with 360-degree camera make it family-friendly. The pre-collision system detects pedestrians and cyclists, applying brakes if needed.
Ownership Experience and Aftersales
Lexus India boasts a growing network of 15 dealerships, with mobile service vans for doorstep maintenance. Running costs are low: hybrid battery longevity exceeds 2 lakh km, and service intervals are every 10,000 km. Resale value holds strong at 70-80% after three years.
Market Impact and Competitors
This launch boosts Lexus’s India sales, targeting 10% growth in 2026. It pressures diesel-heavy rivals to accelerate hybrid adoption, aligning with India’s push for greener mobility. Early bookings surged 40% post-launch, signaling strong demand.
Why Choose the RX 350h Exquisite
For buyers, it offers peerless reliability—Lexus tops J.D. Power dependability charts—coupled with Japanese precision. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement of refined taste.
Future Outlook for Lexus in India
Lexus plans more hybrids like the NX and GX, eyeing electric models by 2027. The Exquisite trim sets a benchmark for affordable luxury.
In summary, the Lexus RX 350h Exquisite redefines accessibility in India’s luxury SUV arena. At ₹90 Lakh, it blends hybrid smarts, opulent comfort, and safety into an irresistible package. Whether commuting in cities or cruising highways, it promises an elevated driving lifestyle. Visit a Lexus showroom today to experience the future of luxury hybrids.
Marion (Ronnie) Serrano is a dedicated news writer focused on breaking stories, community issues, and real-time updates. With a strong eye for accuracy and clarity, Ronnie delivers reporting that informs and empowers readers. Passionate about public affairs and human-interest stories, Ronnie brings depth to every article. Outside the newsroom, Ronnie enjoys exploring new perspectives and engaging with local communities.