Lexus’ seven-seater RX L is here to save the modern family
The 2018 Lexus RX L is a problem solver. The problem: too many bodies and not enough seatbelts. The solution: more seatbelts.
It’s not that the all- new 2018 RX L solves this seatbelt problem that had many excited for its long- awaited debut, but rather how it solves it. As one of Lexus’ best- selling SUVs, the RX has been in high demand for years but wasn’t a viable option for some. Now offered with seven seats, the 2018 RX L is an incredibly stylish ( and welcome) addition to a market that simply can’t get enough family carriers. Because let’s face it, the minivan is not for everyone.
The RX L’s trend- setting amalgamation of the SUV’s practicality and the luxury sedan’s creature comforts resulted in a healthy anticipation for its arrival a few weeks ago.
“The demands we put on our vehicles are always evolving ,” says Kadeen Moore, a Lexus Delivery Specialist at Northwest Lexus, an award- winning Brampton dealership and member of the Policaro Automotive Family. “The RX was a pioneer in the luxury crossover segment, so it’s great to see such enthusiasm for the newest RX L, both from the brand itself and its fans.”
The RX 350L harnesses a 3.5- litre V6 producing 290 horsepower and 263 lb.- ft of torque, while the hybrid variant, the RX 450hL, combines two electric drive motor- generators for a total of 308 horsepower. Allwheel- drive is standard in Canada, and if there’s an “L” after the RX, the thirdrow seat is as well ( though drivers can opt for the six-seat configuration that features a second row of captain’s chairs rather than the 60/40 bench- style seats).
Remarkably, the stretched version is only 4.3 inches longer than the two- row model and sits on the same wheelbase, a feat Lexus’ designers somehow achieved while also leaving class- leading cargo space behind the 60/40, flat-folding rear seats—crucial when you need to haul bags and not bottoms. Stylistically, they’re of a slightly shorter brethren; the RX L’s modern profile showcases similarly chiselled lines and sharp angles, complemented by that striking Lexus spindle grille.
Opt for the Luxury Package in either the six or seven- passenger configuration and the interior is outfitted with heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, semi- aniline leather trimmed seating, power moonroof and smog- sensing climate control. The six- passenger Exec utive Package meanwhile ( you know, for Executive Children), gives the entire interior the Lexus luxury treatment with woodgrain and leather touches, rear seat climate control, head- up display, a wireless charging pad and more.
All models come standard with leather seating, hands- free power tailgate and Lexus Safety System Plus, which includes the modern essentials like a pre- collision system, lane departure alert with steering assist, intelligent high beam and full speed dynamic radar cruise control.
Ultimately, this vehicle is a compact solution to what, for some, is a pressing issue: finding a new ride that doesn’t compromise on the things those in the front seats care about, to accommodate those in the back.
Seductive, strong, safe and, yeah, large enough for the kids, too — is it too much to ask? Lexus doesn’t think so.