The third generation Lexus RX came out at the Los Angeles Auto Show held in 2008, with the first concept model unveiled by the parent company in 2007 at the same event.
Assembled at two Lexus factories, Ontario, Canada and Kyushu, Japan, the new RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine capable of developing a maximum power of 275 hp. According to the figures provided by the car manufacturer, the new RX was due to reach mass production in February 2009 for the United States and in mid-2009 for the European countries, Japan and others.

In November 2008, Lexus launched at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show the hybrid version of the RX which will have the same 3.5-liter V6 engine, but will be named RX 450h. The RX hybrid was sold in the US and in the Japanese markets starting with mid-2009.

The Lexus RX was among the first luxury crossovers produced, an all-purpose & versatile car.
Many features were offered as standard, such as keyless start, heated side mirrors, SmartAccess, bluetooth, a telescopic steering wheel, power 10-way seats and UV reducing exterior glass.

The optional features available were a better sound system (15 speakers), dual screens for the rear seats to be used for entertainment, 19-inch alloys, navigation, heated and ventilated front seats and others.