The Lexus RX Thread

Lexus RX gets a new look, improved cabin tech

You don’t see a lot of these on the road, but the Lexus RX continues to offer a distinctive option to those that want something a little different from the German norm. And now there’s an improved version, sporting some visual and under-the-skin refinements as well as a much needed infotainment upgrade.

Various improvements to the structure and chassis of the vehicle aim to deliver a better ride, reduced body roll and better noise and vibration suppression, while the exterior styling enhancements remain subtle. Among the most noticeable changes is a new grille pattern with 3D-effect ‘L’ shapes, while the headlights are a little slimmer and the front bumper has more rounded edges. Stylists also gave the back bumper a new look, while the taillights gain a new L-shaped pattern. All versions roll on 20-inch alloy wheels as standard.

Big changes inside

The big news in the cabin is the adoption of a touchscreen infotainment system in place of that clunky Remote Touch system that featured a control stick on the centre console. Lexus had to redesign the dashboard to bring the new 31.2cm screen within touching distance, and those that prefer the old system can still use a new trackpad version of the Remote Touch Interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is also part of the deal here, as is voice control via Siri or Google Assistant. A WiFi hotspot with 15GB of complementary data is also standard, along with the MyLexus app and connected services.

PRICES:

Lexus RX 350 EX - R1 012 000

Lexus RX 350 EX L - R1 087 000

Lexus RX 350 F Sport - R1 132 200

Lexus RX 450 h SE - R1 315 800

 
DRIVEN: Lexus RX450h SE

With more young-at-heart models like the quirky UX, modern NX and svelte RC Coupé nettled within the latest Lexus portfolio, a product like the impressively sophisticated RX has been freed up to embrace its role as a pinnacle example of what this luxury-oriented brand does best.

FAST FACTS

Model: Lexus RX450h SE
Price: R1 315 800
Engine: 3,5-litre, V6, naturally aspirated, hybrid
Power: 230 kW
Torque: 335 N.m (+139 electric)
0-100 km/h: 7,7 secs
Top Speed: 200 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 5,7 L/100 km
CO2: 131 g/km
Transmission: e-CVT
Maintenance Plan: M7/105 000 km

 
Lexus RX 450h F Sport 2019 UK review

Should I buy one?

If you’re resolutely determined not to buy a diesel, and a PHEV or EV doesn’t yet work for you, the RX is a decent left-field buy that’s all the better for its updates. It’s distinctive, likeable, comfortable, refined when you’re not clogging it and loaded with standard kit. The very fact it's *not* German, and never feels as such, will be enough for it to appeal to some.

But it still doesn’t offer up enough to persuade us that it’s a better all-rounder than something like a BMW X5 30d, which is a bit more fuel-efficient, more refined and offers significantly better performance at any speed. The public may be turning its back on diesel, yet it remains the most effective and efficient method of propelling a big SUV for long distances.

The RX’s ace card when compared to plug-in hybrids is its relative value - it’s several thousand pounds cheaper than an XC90 T8 or an X5 xDrive45e. Is that enough given those cars' far broader range of talents? We’re not convinced.

Lexus RX 450h F Sport specification

Where Berkshire, UK Price £55,205 On sale now Engine 6 cyls, 3456cc, petrol, plus two electric motors Power 308bhp (combined) Torque xxxlb ft at xxxrpm Gearbox CVT automatic Kerb weight 2100kg Top speed 124mph 0-62mph 7.7sec Fuel economy 35.3-35.7mpg CO2 172g/km Rivals Volvo XC90, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE


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Lexus RX 450h SE (2020) Review

Fast Facts


Price: R1 342 100 (February 2020, no options)
Engine: 3.5L V6 / electric hybrid
Gearbox: CVT
Fuel economy: 5.7 L/100 km (claimed)
Power/Torque: 230 kW/335 Nm
Performance: 0-100 kph in 7.7 sec (claimed)

Price and warranty (February 2020)

The Lexus RX 450h SE sells for R1 342 100 (February 2020) and is backed by an impressive 7-year/105 000 km warranty and 7-year/105 000 km maintenance plan. How’s that for peace of mind? Additionally, the battery pack carries a warranty valid for 8-years or 195 000 km. Service intervals are scheduled for every 15 000 km or once a year.

Verdict

As ever, it's hard to beat this Lexus in terms of its suite of standard features. You'd have to spend considerably more on some German rivals to bring them up to the same level as the RX 450h SE. But standard specification is not the RX's only virtue – it is a genuinely likeable car, with a smooth, easy-going character that prioritises comfort over firm sportiness, which is actually quite refreshing.

Ultimately, the Lexus' hybrid drivetrain can't match the performance/economy balance of most of its turbodiesel rivals, however, and it's load bay is somewhat cramped. Lexus' attempts to improve the ride quality are admirable and definitely make a difference. And overall, the refinement of the drivetrain appears to have gone up a notch or two as well, particularly with regards to the CVT.

We expect the RX 450h SE to remain a fringe alternative in the Premium SUV segment, but those who do take the plunge and opt for this charming, calming car, won't be disappointed.


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Lexus Updates SUV Range in SA

Lexus has given its LX, RX and NX models a specification update. See details below…

In a bid to keep its SUV product lineup fresh, luxury Japanese brand, Lexus has introduced improved specification for its flagship LX luxury SUV, RX premium SUV and its NX premium crossover.

Lexus RX

The Lexus RX with 4 trim grades available to buyers including RX 350 EX, RX 350 L EX, RX350 F Sport and RX 450h SE.

The RX 350 derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre petrol engine with 221 kW and 370 Nm of torque (RX 350L with 216 kW/358 Nm) while the hybrid RX 450h SE offers 230 kW and 335 Nm.

Specification improvements include improved seat quality ranging from natural leather for EX grade to natural high leather for the RX 350 L 7-seater, F-Sport and SE grades. Seatbelt warning is also standard for all passengers (front and rear). Dynamic automatic headlights are also now standard.

Lexus RX Price in SA

RX 350 EX - R1 053 100

RX 350L EX - R1 131 400

RX350 F-Sport - R1 178 200

RX450h SE - R1 369 200

 
Lexus RX 450h L 2021 UK review

Should I buy one?

The RX would be a fairly smart, refined and decently economical way for a private buyer to avoid a diesel engine in a big SUV, without landing that buyer in a particularly thirsty petrol, or a plug-in hybrid option that he or she may not be able to charge up (and which could therefore become just as uneconomical).

A torquey, smooth, fairly frugal multi-cylinder diesel engine and a conventional automatic gearbox would still be my default choice for a car like this; and it is likely to remain so for as long as you can buy one. Nevertheless, the RX’s hybrid powertrain is a pretty credible alternative.

It remains a little bit funny to drive in some ways, isn’t as roomy as the very largest seven-seat SUVs, and isn’t always as comfortable as it might be. But it’s classy and well built, it feels like it should age well, and it offers plenty for the money.


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