2023 Lexus RX

Lexus revealed the 5th generation RX, a completely reinvented model, opening a major new chapter for this iconic SUV. The pioneering RX has become a Lexus bestseller over the last two decades. With more than 3.5 million units sold worldwide since its introduction in 1998 - of which 300,000 in Europe - this 5th generation RX is pivotal to the brand's future 'Lexus Electrified' strategy. Together with the recently launched NX and newly revealed RZ, RX will help build the 'Next Chapter' of the Lexus brand. These three models represent the strongest offensive yet in the D-E Premium SUV market, the heart of Lexus' business. Lexus has further developed its new 'Next Chapter' design language for the new RX. This includes a new 'spindle body' that was achieved by integrating the spindle concept into the entire front of the vehicle. The RX team also found inspiration in the rich RX design heritage. The result is a car that is instantly recognisable as RX, but with a more dynamic, elegant and confident character. Inside, the driver-centred 'Tazuna' cockpit focuses on giving the driver direct, intuitive control of the vehicle, following the principal of 'hands on the wheel, eyes on the road'. It also improves the driving experience, with its intuitive and clean layout, enhanced by a new 14" touchscreen.

UPGRADE IN LUXURY

To make the cabin more driver-centred, Lexus developed the Tazuna cockpit concept. Introduced first on the new NX and RZ, it is now adopted for the new RX. Taking its name from the Japanese word for 'reins of a horse', Tazuna focuses on direct yet intuitive control. In the cockpit, information sources like the multimedia screen, multi-information display, single-dial meter, centralised gauges and head-up display are grouped so their content can be read with minimal eye and head movement. The designers sought to create a minimalist, yet intuitive and thoughtful interior space using the highest quality materials. The front seats have been redesigned to offer top-class accessibility, excellent support and heating/ventilation. To provide proper ergonomic support around the waist, a concave shape was created in the seat sides. A significant highlight of the new RX is the availability of an animal-free leather interior, created in response to growing demand from vegan and other eco-conscious consumers. This means that on Comfort Grade not only seats, but also the steering wheel and shift-knob, are covered with synthetic leather. Here customers can choose between Black and Ammonite Sand.

LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE: COMFORT, CONTROL, CONFIDENCE

All RX models will deliver the 'Lexus Driving Signature' in their own way, thanks to the outstanding credentials of the platform and the powertrains, but with a common thread: superior comfort combined with a new level of responsiveness, linear and direct response, keeping the driver in control at any time and resulting in an immediate feeling of confidence. The new Lexus RX is built on the GA-K platform, similar to that of the NX, but with a different set up. For instance, the rear has been completely redesigned to extend the wheelbase but also implement additional cross members and suspension braces that increase rigidity. This increased rigidity has allowed Lexus engineers to tune the suspension more accurately, improving not only performance but also comfort. This new RX platform has allowed a 90 kg drop in the car's weight and a reduction in the overall height of 10 mm, resulting in a 15 mm lower centre of gravity. The wheelbase is extended by 60 mm while keeping the overall length and reducing the yaw. At 15 mm in front and 50 mm to the rear, the track is also wider, and, combined with the 21" wheels, gives the RX a more confident stance and grip. To save weight, Lexus used advanced materials like 2GPa high-tensile steel material for the centre pillars and aluminium for the wings and bonnet. The new structure also includes 1180 MPa steel for the rocker reinforcement and 1470 MPa steel for roof rigidity.

RX 350h: EFFICIENT 4th GENERATION SELF-CHARGING HYBRID

The smoothness and efficiency of the RX self-charging hybrid model have been improved with the introduction of the brand's 4th generation Lexus self-charging hybrid technology on the new RX 350h. This 2.5-litre petrol drivetrain provides 245 DIN hp and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.0 seconds, which is comparable with the current RX 450h, while at the same time producing lower emissions. The RX 350h will be a strong alternative to low displacement diesel competitors and ideal for customers putting priority on comfort and efficiency.

RX 350: MORE POWERFUL 2.4-LITRE PETROL TURBO

Offered exclusively in Eastern Europe, the new Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged unit that develops 279 DIN hp (or 249 DIN hp in certain markets) and 430 Nm of torque, which is substantially higher than previously. Its strength is matched by the rapid response of a Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission with shorter ratios. A brand-new, electronically controlled, permanent all-wheel drive system ensures power is effectively transmitted in low-grip conditions like gravel tracks. Torque allocation between the front and rear axles can be adjusted from 75:25 to 50:50 according to the driving conditions.