The latest iteration of the top-selling model of Lexus signifies the brand’s push towards electrification with a distinctly new design identity
“The relentless pursuit of perfection.”
Growing up, this is how I learned about Toyota’s luxury arm, Lexus. That famous commercial, where wine glasses were put on top of a Lexus LS, has been engraved in my mind for decades. And it showed everything you needed to know about Lexus as a luxury brand.
As a pioneer in reliable and innovative luxury, Lexus has led the way in introducing products that will not only cater to the needs of its clientele but also transform perceptions. Case in point, the Lexus RX.
This luxury crossover nameplate has been one of the brand’s best-selling models since its introduction in 1998. It was said to be the first to combine luxury and premium comfort in a crossover platform, just as car buyers were exposed to the soft-roading SUV concept.
In 2005, it broke boundaries again by offering the world’s first hybrid luxury SUV experience in the RX400h. And now, on its fifth generation, the Lexus RX line is set to elevate the luxury driving experience to a more powerful, stylish, and sustainable future.
The all-new Lexus RX signifies the brand’s push towards electrification with a distinctly new design identity. With its lower center of gravity, more compact dimensions, sharper headlights, air intakes, and wider track, the 5th generation Lexus RX becomes a bolder expression of luxury.
The RX achieves a more coupe-like look with a longer bonnet, an additional 60mm wheelbase, and a 10mm lower roofline. Its 21-inch wheels complement its more dynamic feel.
L-shaped DRLs, single-line Lexus signature tail lights, and the bold “LEXUS” badging at the tailgate all come together to give the all-new RX an emboldened stance on the road.
Inside, a simpler, more relaxed, more focused cockpit greets the driver. The interior space of the all-new Lexus RX has become more thoughtful and is infused with intuitive layouts and controls for the infotainment, multi-information display, and gauges.
A new lag-free touchscreen system replaces the mouse-like interface from the previous generation. The menus are also laid out intuitively with easy-to-find functions. The same could be said for the climate functions, which remain in the same place on the screen. Auto-heated steering wheel, seats, and even a heads-up display are also present for a more convenient drive.
In the Executive variant, the leather-like interior seat material does not use animal products, and Vegan leather is now the battle cry for sustainable luxury motoring.
A more intelligent use of space in the cabin allows for loading ample luggage with excellent legroom to spare. An additional 10mm distance between couples up front, along with new seat designs, a 30mm lower loading height, and an extra 50mm length in cargo space, are examples of intelligent packaging with the all-new Lexus RX’s interiors.
Of course, every new Lexus generation calls for improvements in the driving experience. The Lexus Driving Signature is present in the all-new RX. Superior comfort, as well as linear and direct responsiveness, all arise from the improved rigidity of Lexus’ GA-K platform.
The RX 350h Executive and RX 350h Premier sport the E-Four All-Wheel Drive system. This setup places an electric motor at the rear axle for near-instantaneous drive force, even in low-grip or acceleration situations.
On the higher RX 500h F Sport, power is sent to the wheels through the DIRECT4 system. This exclusive Lexus AWD system uses a separate electric motor and inverter, which precisely balances power and torque between the front and rear axles, depending on the driving conditions.
There’s also Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) which provides independent damping control at each wheel. The tuned suspension system improves riding comfort and stability on flat surfaces and responds smoother to changes in road quality for a more composed and confidence-inspiring ride.
If fuel efficiency is your thing, the RX 350h runs with a new 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine. But for customers seeking performance, the turbocharged hybrid setup of the RX 500 F-Sport is tuned for a high-end electrified driving experience.
The top-variant has a 2.4-liter turbo gas engine, six-speed transmission, integrated front motor, power control unit, hybrid battery, and a compact 103 PS rear e-axle. This powertrain lets you play around with 371 PS and 550 Nm of torque in the Lexus RX 500h F-Sport. And it can take you to 100 km/h from zero in 6.2 seconds.
Of course, Lexus has infused the all-new RX series with the latest generation of its Lexus Safety System+. With the Pre-Collision System’s ability to detect motorcycles in the car’s path and improvements in the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Trace Assist systems, driving the all-new Lexus RX becomes a more natural experience.
Three variants of the Lexus RX, each with a hybrid drivetrain, will be offered by Lexus Philippines: the RX 350h Executive at P5,058,000, the RX 350h Premier at P6,188,000, and the RX 500h F-Sport at P6,668,000. Luxury compact SUVs just got exciting again.
