New or certified pre-owned Lexus RX: which fits Orange County drivers?
Choose a new Lexus RX if you want the latest model year and your own trim, colour and options. Choose a Lexus Certified Pre-Owned RX if you want a lower purchase price with Lexus-backed certification. We sell both at 45 Auto Center Drive in Tustin, and we rate 4.6 stars across 3,524 Google reviews.
Keep reading below, then schedule a test drive in Tustin. Bringing your own numbers to the lot settles this faster than any spec sheet.
Buy a new Lexus RX for choice, a certified one for value in Orange County
Buy certified when the lower price and Lexus-backed coverage matter more. A new RX carries the maker’s warranty from the day you buy it: 48 months or 50,000 miles for basic coverage, and 72 months or 70,000 miles for powertrain, whichever occurs first in each case (Toyota’s published 2026 RX warranty terms). A certified RX carries the L/Certified program’s own coverage on top of the factory warranty.
Lexus describes that coverage in its L/Certified Warranty Supplement (Lexus, 2025): the L/Certified Limited Warranty starts when the Basic Warranty ends or at the purchase date, whichever is later, and runs up to two years with unlimited mileage.
Lexus’s own consumer page describes each L/Certified vehicle this way: “‘L/Certified’ vehicles are different from other used Lexus vehicles because each one undergoes a 161-point comprehensive inspection, receives a Vehicle History Report, and includes the L-Certified Limited Warranty (valid for 2 years after expiration of the 4-year/50,000 new vehicle Basic Warranty, or 2 years from purchase or lease date), and 24/7 Roadside Assistance for 2 years/unlimited miles.” (Lexus Financial, “I’m shopping for a used Lexus and keep coming across the term ‘L/Certified by Lexus.’ What does that mean?”)
If you want a new RX built to your own trim and colour, buy new. If you want the same Lexus warranty backing at a lower entry price, look at certified.
What does a new Lexus RX cost, and what sets a certified RX’s price?
A new 2026 RX starts at $52,775 for the RX 350 Standard FWD, and the top Luxury trims reach $73,410 for the RX 450h+ Luxury AWD (Lexus 2026 pricing, MSRP).
A certified RX has a lower purchase price than a brand new one. The gap depends on the car’s age, mileage and trim, so compare the out-the-door number for each car you are weighing.
What sales tax and fees will you pay on an RX in Orange County?
California sales tax and registration fees apply to a new RX and a certified RX alike. In Orange County the combined sales and use tax rate is 7.750 percent: the 7.25 percent statewide rate plus a 0.50 percent district tax. Tustin is also 7.750 percent. Some Orange County cities add more. Santa Ana is at 9.250 percent and Buena Park at 8.750 percent, and the rate follows the vehicle’s registration address (California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, California City and County Sales and Use Tax Rates, 2026).
Registration adds a base fee of $76 under Vehicle Code section 9250.1, billed with a $34 California Highway Patrol fee (California Department of Motor Vehicles, 2026). California dealers may charge a document processing fee of up to $85 if they hold a DMV private industry partner agreement, and up to $70 if they do not (California Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual, 2026).
How do new RX warranty and L/Certified coverage differ?
A new RX comes with the maker’s new-vehicle warranty from the day you buy it. A certified RX comes with the L/Certified program’s inspection, warranty and benefits.
The L/Certified program adds a 161-point inspection and complimentary maintenance for 2 years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting the day you buy or lease (Lexus, Warranty Supplement and Roadside Assistance Guide, 2025). Lexus says the maintenance covers the factory-recommended services that fall inside that coverage period.
Loaner cars follow a set rule. If a warrantable repair keeps your RX at the dealership overnight because it needs more than eight hours, Lexus provides a loaner for up to five days, at up to $50 per day (Lexus, Warranty Supplement and Roadside Assistance Guide, 2025).
Which Lexus RX trims and powertrains can you pick when buying new?
The 2026 RX comes in gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid forms. The gasoline RX 350 is rated at 25 combined mpg in front-wheel drive and 24 combined in all-wheel drive. Seating is five across the trims listed for the RX 350 line.
Pick the powertrain first. Hybrid models give the best EPA combined rating in the lineup, and the all-wheel-drive options cost more to start.
Which Lexus RX fits: new, plug-in hybrid or certified pre-owned?
Choose a new RX if you want to set the trim, powertrain and options yourself. Choose a certified RX if you want the lower price and the L/Certified coverage.
The RX 450h+ Premium AWD starts at $66,780 and the RX 450h+ Luxury AWD at $73,410. Those are the plug-in options in the new lineup, priced above the gasoline and standard hybrid trims.
FAQ
Can I trade in my current car when I buy an RX at Tustin Lexus?
Yes. We accept trade-ins at the store, and we have an online appraisal tool you can use before you visit.
Can I finance or lease a Lexus RX through Tustin Lexus?
Yes. We offer pre-owned loans, new Lexus financing and Lexus leases. You can start a secure online finance application before you visit.
What should I ask for to compare out-the-door prices on a new and a certified RX?
Ask for the full out-the-door number on each car. Advertised prices are examples, not final out-the-door quotes. Add California sales tax at 7.750 percent in Tustin and the DMV registration fees to each price before you compare.
Can I book RX service online with Tustin Lexus?
Yes. Service appointments can be scheduled online on our website. Our technicians are Lexus factory-trained and certified.
Where is Tustin Lexus and what are its hours?
We are at 45 Auto Center Dr, Tustin, CA 92782. Sales hours are Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Our service center is closed Sunday.
Can I browse new and certified RX inventory online outside store hours?
Yes. Shoppers can browse our online inventory at any hour.
What do Tustin Lexus buyers say about the sales process?
In a June 2026 Google review, Young K. wrote: “I had an outstanding experience at this Lexus dealership from start to finish. The entire process was smooth, stress-free, and professional. Everyone I worked with was incredibly communicative, keeping me updated every step of the way and answering all of my questions without any pressure. What stood out the most was their honesty and transparency. There were no surprises, hidden fees, or pushy sales tactics—just straightforward communication and genuine customer service. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly and made sure I was comfortable with my decision. Buying a car can often be overwhelming, but this team made it an enjoyable experience. Their professionalism, integrity, and commitment to customer satisfaction truly set them apart. I highly recommend this dealership to anyone looking for a Lexus. I’ll definitely be coming back for future purchases and service. Thank you for making this such a great experience!”
Why Orange County drivers buy a new or certified Lexus RX at Tustin Lexus
Tustin Lexus is at 45 Auto Center Dr, Tustin, CA 92782, and we sell new and certified pre-owned RX models there. Our trade-in appraisal tool, our secure online finance application, and our pre-owned loans, new Lexus financing and Lexus leases let you set up the deal before you visit.
We rate 4.6 stars across 3,524 Google reviews, with 87 in 100 of them five-star. Our service team is Lexus factory-trained and certified, and our service amenities include a Wi-Fi lounge, a complimentary car wash and a complimentary café. Service opens at 7:00 AM Monday to Saturday, and closes at 6:00 PM Monday to Friday and at 5:30 PM on Saturday.
In a June 2026 Google review, Dexter P. wrote: “Had an incredible experience with the team at Tustin Lexus! From the moment I arrived, the customer service was top-tier—friendly, organized, and entirely stress-free. They kept me updated throughout the process and didn’t rely on high-pressure sales tactics or unnecessary upselling. The waiting area is spotless and comfortable, too. It’s clear they truly value their clients. Highly recommend this location!”
Start with the RX you want at Tustin Lexus, 45 Auto Center Dr, Tustin, and bring your out-the-door questions and your trade-in details.
Tustin Lexus answers this question against the specific vehicle in front of you rather than the model in general. Value your trade and get pre-approved online, then see us at our Tustin showroom, or call (714) 368-3200.
Disclaimer: Vehicle features, specifications, pricing, options, and availability may vary based on production timelines and dealership inventory; images are for illustrative purposes only. Starting MSRP figures are national and exclude destination freight charges, tax, title, license, and dealer fees. Standard and available equipment varies by trim, configuration, and model year; confirm the specification of the individual vehicle before purchase. Maximum towing and payload ratings depend on cab, bed, drivetrain, and equipment configuration; see the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual and trailering guide for limits. Electric range and charging times vary with battery, configuration, temperature, terrain, load, and driving habits. Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Financing and pre-approval are subject to credit approval. Contact Tustin Lexus for complete details regarding current vehicle inventory, pricing, and equipment.