Lexus RX Crafted Edition 2022: pricing and release date for Encore Platinum special editions

Lexus’s Crafted branding returns for a pair of special-edition RX SUVs that include primo Encore Platinum benefits as standard

Lexus will redeploy its familiar Crafted Edition branding for a pair of special-edition RX large SUVs, with four- and six-cylinder variants scoring bonus equipment while providing owners with access to the brand’s Encore Platinum club.

Based on the base-model RX Luxury trim, the Crafted Edition is available with either the four-cylinder turbo RX300 engine ($77,075 before on-road costs) or the V6 RX350 ($86,485).

The RX is sized between the BMW X3 and X5 in size and is available with seven seats – though the Crafted Edition models are strictly a five-seat affair.

Lexus RX Crafted Edition interior 2022 — The RX’s Crafted Edition interior is a dual tone of black and white ash

Released to Australian buyers this month, the pair of Crafted special editions become the only RX variants with Encore Platinum privileges.

Extra equipment beyond RX Luxury grade

Lexus says that it has added dark treatments for the inner grille, bumper and mirror caps as well as unique 20-inch dark alloy wheels with F Sport wheel caps.

The RX 350 gains a sunroof, while the RX 300 scores heated and ventilated front seats and an easy access driver’s seat with memory function.

Also included as standard in the Crafted Edition is a heads-up display and leather accented upholstery finished in two-tone black and white ash. Black open-pore walnut-look ornamentation can be found on the doors, centre console and steering wheel.

Lexus RX Crafted Edition interior detail 2022 — The RX Crafted Edition is available on the 300 and 350 models exclusively

These features build on a standard specification that includes LED headlights, 10-way power adjustable front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a wireless smartphone charger and a full suite of Lexus safety technology.

A palette of 10 exterior colours is available for the RX Crafted Edition, consisting of Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Sonic Quartz, Titanium, Onyx, Glacial Ecru, Khaki Metal, Graphite Black, Vermillion and Deep Blue.

Encore Platinum lets you access more expensive Lexus models for free

As part of the new-car ownership experience of an RX Crafted Edition, owners will also receive a three year membership to Lexus’ Encore Platinum program which is all run through the Lexus app.

Customers who are part of this program are able to borrow another Lexus four times a year for up to eight days at a time.

Lexus LC500 Inspiration Series 2021 driving — You could take an LC500 for a spin as part of the Lexus Encore Platinum program

Lexus has opened up their fleet of cars so that the LC coupe, LS sedan or LX SUV are available to borrow.

Also added to this list for 2022 is the new UX 300e, Lexus’ first battery electric vehicle, and the brand’s first plug-in hybrid model, the NX 450h+.

The Encore Platinum program also allows customers to book cars interstate for pickup from the Qantas valet at the Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth airports, or overseas in New Zealand at Auckland or Queenstown airports.

Encore Platinum benefits extend to golf days, track days and experiences with ambassadors.

Lexus UX 300e 2022 Sports Luxury khaki metal front end — The UX 300e, Lexus’ first EV, is also available for hire

RX300 and RX350 variants available

While the Crafted Edition goodies are not available with the petrol-electric hybrid RX450h, buyers wanting in to Encore Platinum – plus the additional equipment – can choose between four- and six-cylinder power.

The RX300 is front-wheel drive and uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine making 175kW of power and 350Nm of torque.

Meanwhile, the RX350 adds all-wheel drive (AWD) traction, making use of a naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine producing 221kW of power and 370Nm of torque.