The 2026 Lexus TX 500h and RX 500h are the two highest-output hybrid SUVs in the current Lexus lineup, and both use the same core technology: a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a high-output electric motor and the Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system. The powertrain architecture is closely related, but the vehicles they power are built for different buyers. The TX 500h is a three-row, six-passenger family SUV. The RX 500h is a two-row, five-passenger SUV with sharper F SPORT focus at every grade. Knowing which one fits your life is mostly a question of how many rows you need and what the third row is worth to you.
Both vehicles deliver serious performance for their segment. Both use DIRECT4, which continuously adjusts torque distribution between front and rear motors based on wheel speed, steering angle, and acceleration inputs. And both come exclusively in F SPORT configurations. Here is how the specs compare.
At a Glance: TX 500h vs RX 500h
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Specification
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TX 500h F SPORT
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RX 500h F SPORT
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Engine
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2.4 L turbo 4-cyl hybrid
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2.4 L turbo 4-cyl hybrid
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System Output
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366 hp
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367 hp
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Torque
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409 lb-ft
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550 lb-ft
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Transmission
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6-speed automatic
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6-speed automatic
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Drivetrain
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DIRECT4 AWD
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DIRECT4 AWD
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Fuel Economy (combined)
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8.6 L/100 km
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8.6 L/100 km
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Seating
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6 (captain's chairs, 3 rows)
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5 (2 rows)
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Cargo (behind 3rd row)
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572 L
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N/A
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Cargo (behind 2nd row)
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1,625 L
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838 L
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Towing Capacity
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5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
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3,494 lbs (1,585 kg)
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Overall Length
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5,170 mm
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4,890 mm
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The torque figure stands out: the RX 500h produces 550 lb-ft of system torque versus 409 lb-ft in the TX 500h, despite nearly identical horsepower. The RX 500h's e-Axle rear differential is paired with its higher-torque setup for a more performance-oriented delivery. The TX 500h channels its output through a larger, heavier body, and its torque is tuned for confident acceleration with a full load rather than outright sprint performance.
Powertrain: Same DNA, Different Tuning
Both powertrains share the same 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder base engine and DIRECT4 architecture, but the tuning differs to match each vehicle's purpose. The TX 500h uses a 6-speed automatic and its DIRECT4 system is calibrated to balance traction, comfort, and load management across three rows and a 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) tow rating. The RX 500h also uses a 6-speed automatic, but its suspension and powertrain calibration lean toward driver engagement, which is reflected in its shorter turning circle of 5.4 m versus the TX 500h's larger footprint.
Both offer the same combined fuel economy rating of 8.6 L/100 km. Active Sound Control is standard on both, producing tuned acoustic feedback through the cabin speakers linked to throttle input.
Three Rows vs Two: The Core Decision
The TX 500h's six-passenger layout uses second-row captain's chairs with a walk-in mechanism for third-row access. Behind the third row, 572 L of cargo space is available, expanding to 1,625 L with the third row folded and to a full 2,747 L when both the second and third rows are folded flat. For buyers regularly travelling with five or six people and their gear, the TX 500h's layout is the practical answer.
The RX 500h carries five passengers with 838 L behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,308 L with the rear seats folded. Its two-row layout places more of the body length in the passenger cell and cargo area rather than a third row, which gives the cabin a tighter, more driver-oriented feel consistent with its F SPORT character.
F SPORT Grades Available
TX 500h is available in two F SPORT Performance grades:
- F SPORT Performance 2: 22-inch F SPORT alloy wheels, AVS, front and rear performance rods, panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated first and second-row seats, 14-inch Lexus Interface, digital rearview mirror, Active Sound Control
- F SPORT Performance 3: Adds head-up display, Adaptive High Beam, 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio, 1,500-watt inverter, Advanced Park, Panoramic View Monitor, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert
Both TX 500h grades are available with an optional Class IV towing hitch to reach the full 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) tow rating.
RX 500h is available in three F SPORT grades:
- F SPORT Performance 2: 367 hp, DIRECT4, 21-inch F SPORT performance alloys, heated and ventilated front seats, power folding rear seats, 9.8-inch Lexus Interface, digital rearview mirror, 3,494-lb (1,585 kg) towing
- F SPORT Performance 3: Adds 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio, Panoramic View Monitor, triple beam headlamps with Adaptive High Beam, 1,500-watt inverter, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Advanced Park
- F SPORT Black Line: Adds distinctive black aero kit and exclusive styling over the Performance 3 package
Which Model Fits Your Priorities?
The TX 500h is the better fit for buyers who need three-row capacity, a higher tow rating, and the DIRECT4 performance experience in a larger family vehicle. Its 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) towing gives meaningful practical utility alongside the performance powertrain.
The RX 500h delivers a more driving-focused version of the same DIRECT4 formula in a two-row body. With 550 lb-ft of torque, a shorter turning circle, and a body tuned more closely around driver feedback, it suits buyers who want the highest-output RX available and do not need a third row.
Compare Both Models at Lexus of Saint John
Visit the team at Lexus of Saint John to go through the TX 500h and RX 500h F SPORT grades in person and find the powertrain, layout, and feature combination that fits how you drive.
