The new RX adopts the large Lexus spindle grille from the smaller NX
Fourth-generation SUV to take on Range Rover Sport and Mercedes-Benz GLE when it goes on sale in the UK towards the end of this year
The fourth-generation Lexus RX SUV has been revealed at the New York motor show, and will go on sale in the UK towards the end of this year.
The new RX’s dimensions make it marginally longer, wider and taller than the current car, while Lexus has added visual elements to bring the RX into line with its current family. In particular, the firm’s large spindle grille dominates the front end, while flared wheel arches and new fog lights also feature.
New L-shaped tail-light clusters can be seen at the rear, something Lexus says helps to give the RX a more ‘authoritative’ stance on the road.
The new RX sits on 20in alloy wheels, which can be customised with coloured inserts.
Inside, a 12.3in infotainment screen features alongside a new head-up display and a new panoramic sunroof. Lexus says that thanks to the new RX’s extended wheelbase - which is 50mm longer than before - the SUV now offers more interior space.
Engine options in the new RX will include a 3.5-litre V6 petrol with around 300bhp, which will be matched to a new eight-speed automatic transmission,
The car’s current hybrid powertrain will be retuned, and will feature a 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to an electric motor. Total output from the system will be around 300bhp. Lexus says both powertrain options have been tuned to return high fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. All RX models are all-wheel drive.
Lexus says the RX’s structure is now stiffer and more stable than before, and the car should offer “drastically improved” handling response.
F-Sport versions of the new RX get a new mesh for the grille and front bumper, with unique alloy wheel designs and a different instrument cluster. The car also gets steering wheel-mounted paddles.
The F-Sport has a new active stabiliser system, which helps to keep the car level through corners, as well as adaptive variable suspension. Drivers can select from a new Sport S+ mode inside, too.
Other new features on the RX include Lexus’s Safety System+, which combines existing technologies such as pre-emergency braking, lane departure warning and automatic high-beam lights. The system also includes a new lane-keeping assistance feature, and also works with the car’s adaptive cruise control.
Optional safety features include adaptive lighting, a panoramic view camera system and a blind-spot monitoring system.
The RX is a big seller for Lexus, accounting for three out of every 10 vehicles the brand has sold in its 26-year history.
Gen Ikeda, chief designer of the RX, said: “We designed the RX to have a high amount of excitement and strength. The longer wheelbase and larger wheel size create sporty, powerful proportions. At the same time as we have secured a highly luxurious and spacious cabin, we have kept a sleek and dynamic vehicle silhouette.”
The new RX will face competition from the likes of the Range Rover Sport, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE in Europe.
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