Lexus PH launches all-new RX crossover

All-new Lexus RX 350 crossover. Photos by Ardie Lopez

Since the model’s Philippine debut in 2009, the Lexus RX has proved immensely popular with those needing the flexibility of a sport-utility vehicle combined with the driving comfort of a luxury sedan, all wrapped in an attractive, elegant package. The all-new RX’s mix of sharp creases and curves represents a bold evolution in the model’s styling, sharing the same design DNA with other recently- launched models in the Lexus line-up. Moreover, this luxury crossover adds advanced new redesigned hybrid and gasoline powertrains, sophisticated safety technologies, driver aids. It also welcomes new convenience and technology features to make this one of the best Lexus sport-utility vehicles offered to date.

The front view of the new RX is characterized by an emboldened version of the Lexus brand’s signature spindle grille, featuring a chrome-plated border and triple L-shape-LED headlamps. The available L-shaped LED headlight is accompanied by 18 individual LEDs that surround the headlights and not only act as turn signal indicators, but also illuminate sequentially from the inside section of the headlamp toward the outside when the driver activates the turn signal—a first for Lexus. The spindle design theme of the front of the RX also defines its rear design, providing a high level of aesthetic balance and consistency to the vehicle’s overall demeanor. The LED rear combined with the L-shaped taillights envelope the tailgate while wrapping forward around the rear fender sections, resulting in a powerful and wide stance. Of particular note are the blacked-out C-pillars, which provide a floating- roof effect never before seen on a Lexus product.

Also, a total of seven exterior colors have been added: Graphite Black GF (Glass Flake), Amber CS (Crystal Shine), Deep Blue MC (Mica), Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Red Mica CS, and White Nova GF. All RX models feature a highly scratch-resistant self-restoring coat in the body paint, which uses a high-performance macromolecular polymer. The high elasticity of the material helps to improve scratch resistance, such as from car washes or fingernail marks around the door handles, and it possesses a high level of gloss retention that helps to improve the initial gloss and color of the paint over a long period of time.

Stylish aluminum wheel packages are now available with the RX, including a 20-in. 10-spoke wheel set for the Premier and Hybrid models, and an exclusive 20-in. multi-spoke wheel set for the F- Sport model.

With an interior space optimized for five passengers, the new RX’s lowered rear floor section helps provide seating position comparable to that of the rear-seat passengers in the flagship Lexus LS luxury sedan. The new RX features improved rear cargo space—larger than competing crossovers within the segment—with room enough to fit hefty items including up to four large suitcases or multiple golf bags. New and exclusive for the RX450h is the available Touchless Power Back Door, a Lexus first, which allows users to open the rear hatch by placing a hand near the Lexus emblem.

Lexus RX F-Sport interior

Adding to the versatility and capability of the all-new Lexus RX are the two types of powertrains: 1) a 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 gasoline engine (2GR-FKS) mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and 2) a 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 gasoline engine (2GR-FXS) and revised hybrid powertrain componentry.

The available 3.5-liter direct-injected gasoline-powered V-6 engine (2GR-FKS) brings class- leading levels of performance, fuel efficiency and reduced emissions while delivering prodigious power when summoned by the driver, with smooth and highly refined operating characteristics in normal everyday operation. Power is rated at 291 hp at 6300 rpm with 360 Nm of torque at 4700 rpm.

The completely reengineered 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 hybrid engine (2GR-FXS) is a paragon of efficiency with plentiful power when needed. It is an evolution of the base 6-cylinder drivetrain, now producing a combined system output of  308 hp (230 kW) at 6000 rpm with 335 Nm of torque at 4600 rpm.

A plethora of vital safety features and technologies are included for all RX models including SRS airbags consisting of dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger’s airbag, driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags, rear side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers; vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system.

The 2016 RX F-Sport elevates the sporty image of the RX to an entirely new level. Available across the entire RX line, F-Sport models include a number of special visual and performance features that set them apart from other versions. The first thing the driver will notice is the exclusive instrumentation cluster that consists of an 8-in. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that’s characterized by a large, easy-to-read circular gauge that artistically combines a tachometer and a digital speed indicator.

All RX F-Sport models boast excellent handling, thanks in part to the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system—which controls the damping force of the shock absorbers at each individual wheel in response to road surface conditions and driver inputs—and the Active Stabilizer System that suppresses body roll in accordance to the unevenness of the road surface. Also, the sound generator, available on RX350 and RX450h , enhances theF-Sport driving experience, using air intake pulsations to tune the sound of the engine to produce frequencies that are perceived to be pleasant to the ear during acceleration in the mid- to high-rpm range.

The interior of the RX F-Sport has been styled to match the vehicle’s sporty disposition. You’ll find highly supportive quilted seats that are exclusive to the F-Sport, as is an exclusive interior color choice, Dark Rose. The unique perforated leather-wrapped shift lever and three-spoke sport steering wheel with F-Sport badge, and aluminum interior trim accents, drilled non-slip lightweight aluminum accelerator and brake pedals and foot rest add extra flair to this exciting model’s invigorating character.

The Lexus RX 350 Premier is priced at P4,068,000, while the RX 350 F-Sport is selling for P4,938,000.00. The RX 450h is at P5,978,000.