Lexus' best-selling vehicle -- the RX crossover -- is due for a refresh soon. Before the 2013 RX debuts in any auto show, though, we can now see what seems to be a leaked version of an overseas 2013 Lexus RX brochure, complete with tweaked front styling.
The luxury crossover leader is getting a face-lift: images of the refreshed 2013 Lexus RX from a brochure have been leaked and, while we wouldn’t expect any powertrain changes, it’s clear the new spindle grille seen on the 2013 Lexus GS is making its way across the lineup.
Then there’s the 2013 Lexus RX F Sport model in the brochure. The new, sportier RX sports a rear-drive drivetrain with a 400-hp V-8…just kidding. In reality, the sportier RX will likely match the IS and GS F Sport models with a slightly retuned suspension and special interior trim to match the visible wheel and body kit upgrades.
It’s unclear at this point whether the U.S. will get a Lexus RX F Sport model at all, but don’t under-estimate its potential. For 2011, the Lexus RX crossover -- in V-6 and V-6 hybrid forms -- formed 41.6 percent of all Lexus sales. As the RX gets closer to replacement time, a flashy new F Sport model could be just the thing to distract buyers from newer entries like the Acura RDX and Cadillac SRX featuring the 3.6-liter V-6.
Lexus is planning on bringing two new F Sport models to the Geneva Motor Show in March, and we anticipate the 2013 Lexus RX 450h F Sport will be one of those vehicles.