The RX crossover, the best-selling model of Lexus in the Philippines and globally, has just received a dose of Spindle-ification. Courtesy of a drastic nose job, the RX350 looks meaner, angrier, and more likely to make full use of its 274bhp engine. Just as significantly, Lexus Manila is splitting the RX350 into two variants: a “base” model at significantly lower cost, and a Premier version that ups the specs while also going up in price.
But first: the Spindle Grille. Lexus’ initiative for creating a more memorable face, as well as inspiring a new image for its brand, is the hourglass-shaped maw that is now transplanted to the RX. It works well with the straight angular lines of the rest of the car. The taillights receive new horizontal accents. The HID headlamps are underscored by LED daytime running lights forming the Lexus arrowhead cue. Four new exterior color choices: Satin Silver, Burgundy Red, Sienna Brown, and Midnight Blue, are added, for a total of 10 available colors.
The base model, in Lexus tradition, in comes quite well equipped. Sporting the same body and interior that the previous model had, the RX is a size above its higher-priced German rivals. Interior changes to the 2012 model include thicker thread on the seat stitching (!), matte silver trim inserts in the dashboard, and most importantly for the driver—a steering wheel with “a cross section which is no longer uniform throughout its circumference.” The new tiller is reportedly nicer to grip and turn. The center console lid opens wider, and USB and accessory sockets have been repositioned for easier access. Bluetooth connectivity is now standard. Eight-way power front seats and power tilt-telescoping steering wheel make ingress and egress easier. Dual-zone airconditioning, cruise control, and transponder key with Start/Stop button are standard as well.
The base RX makes do with fabric seats and painted interior trim, while Premium gets the leather-and-wood treatment. The power seats and steering get a memory function, and the rear view mirror gains a back-up camera monitor.
Also well-specified is the sole powertrain option, boasting a 3.5-liter V6 with 274bhp and 346 Nm. The dohc V6 mates to a six-speed automatic with manual shift gate. All-wheel drive is standard. The RX’s electronically-actuated system can actively split torque between front and rear axles from 100:0 up to 50:50. When starting on slippery surfaces, the active center coupling located just ahead of the rear differential can quickly engage the rear wheels.
The RX’s chassis still uses MacPherson struts up front, including coil springs wound in opposite directions to reduce the springs’ compression affecting the steering. The rears use double wishbones for a better ride and to reduce intrusion into the cargo area. Electric power steering improves fuel efficiency, by up to three percent as Lexus reckons. Dual-piston front calipers and rear disc brakes take care of the stopping duties, aided by ABS, EBD, and brake assist. RX comes with front airbags and side airbags for front and rear seats. Stability and traction control are standard on both variants. The base car gets 235/60 R18 tires, while the premium gets upgraded to 235/55 R19s.
The 2012 RX is a timely refresh, giving the crossover a more distinctive face while maintaining its high level of trim. Mr. Carlos Chungunco, Lexus Marketing Services Officer, says that the RX450h will be offered eventually, about the time that the GS450h hybrid will be launched as well. Here’s hoping that the RX350 F Sport, with enhanced handling, will also make its way here.
The base RX350 is now at P3,578,000, a big cut from the previous car, while the Premium checks in at P3,898,000.
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