Lexus Will Add Third-Row Seating Option To Top-Selling RX Crossover For 2018

Lexus will add a third-row option to the segment-leading RX 350 and RX 450h midsize crossover.

Lexus has announced that it will show a production version of its top-selling RX crossover with three rows of seating this month at the upcoming L.A. Auto Show. This move will push Lexus even further into first place among the premium crossover brands.

This move by Lexus was expected and Torque News predicted the RX would add an optional third row way back in 2014. The only real question is why Lexus waited so long. The new RX 350L and RX 450hL hybrid will augment the top-selling midsize RX 350 and RX 450h. Lexus has been doing well with the smaller NX crossover line, but it too is due for a refresh.

The move by Lexus to add the third-row option to the RX will better position Lexus to take sales away from competitors. In particular the Acura MDX. The Infiniti line and the German brands will also be possible conquests for the RX-L. Perhaps the only downside to the move is that the Toyota Highlander, also a top seller, may be impacted. The three-row Highlander shares much with the RX now, and a third row RX L will be viewed by many shoppers as a premium Highlander option.

Torque News will have full details on the afternoon of November 29th when the RX is revealed at the upcoming show.