Lexus RX350 vs Toyota C-HR

What's the difference?

This is a BIG moment for the Lexus RX in Australia. And I'm not just referring to the spindle grille that adorns the front-end of this all-new model (though it too is almost commercially massive).

I'm talking more about the vehicle itself, and its importance to the Lexus brand here. The RX is one of Lexus' best sellers in Australia, and so this new one – which welcomes a new platform, new powertrain options and an all-new F Sport Performance trim level – is a big deal.

So, does it live up to the hype (and to its German competition)? Join me as we figure all that out ahead of the RX's debut here in early 2023.

According to the chief engineer for the Toyota C-HR, a second generation was never guaranteed for this uncharacteristically (for Toyota) design-led small SUV.

After the Corolla Cross came into existence, the top brass didn’t think the brand needed two similarly sized models in the line-up. So, why is it here, and is it any good?

The first question is easy to answer - the team drew the new C-HR up as a European model, built in hybrid-only and with enough key differences from the Corolla Cross to avoid the models competing. 

The second question? Let’s find out.