The “RX” badge on Lexus’ best-selling model stands for “Radiant Crossover,” a name chosen to represent the brand’s bright new future as it approached the new millennium.

Lexus introduced the RX in 1998, followed by major generational updates in 2004, 2010, 2016 and 2023. The midsize SUV is expected to receive another refresh for 2028.

Why the RX name was chosen

According to Lexus, “Radiant” was selected to symbolize the company’s forward-looking ambitions at the time. The “Crossover” portion reflects the vehicle’s position between luxury sedans and more traditional off-road-oriented SUVs.

The RX name is part of a broader Lexus naming system in which model letters carry specific meanings. The UX, NX and TX, for example, stand for “Urban Crossover,” “Nimble Crossover” and “Touring Crossover.” The electric RZ uses the designation “Radiant Zero,” referring to its zero-emissions operation.

What the numbers mean on the RX

The three-digit number traditionally offered a clue about engine displacement, but that connection is no longer direct. The original RX 300 used a 3.0-liter V6, while the current RX 350 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

The present lineup also includes the hybrid RX 350h and plug-in hybrid RX 450h+, both of which use electrified 2.5-liter four-cylinder powertrains. At the top of the range, the RX 500h F Sport Performance combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with hybrid assistance to produce a combined 366 horsepower.

Despite the “500” designation, that model does not use Lexus’ discontinued 5.0-liter V8. Instead, its name represents the vehicle’s position within the range rather than a literal engine-displacement figure.

A possible performance version

Recent spy shots reportedly indicate that Lexus may be developing a performance-focused GR version of the RX. The model is rumored to receive a Morizo RR badge with Gazoo Racing involvement, along with a lower and wider stance.

Unconfirmed reports suggest the potential performance SUV could use a hybrid system combining a new 2.0-liter engine with two electric motors and produce as much as 600 horsepower. Lexus has not confirmed those details in the supplied information.

The wider Lexus naming structure

The same naming logic extends across the Lexus lineup. The entry-level LBX means “Lexus Breakthrough Crossover,” while the GX and LX are identified as “Grand Crossover” and “Luxury Crossover.”

Lexus sedans follow a similar pattern: IS means “Intelligent Sport,” ES means “Executive Sedan” and LS means “Luxury Sedan.” The LC grand tourer represents “Luxury Coupe,” while the LM minivan stands for “Luxury Mover.”

The F and F Sport designations refer to Fuji Speedway in Japan, where Lexus’ master drivers fine-tune the driving dynamics of its models.