STEPPING OUT
Confident in design and tech, Lexus is shifting gears
Lexus is shaking off its conservative image with the new RX. The big SUV is more visually appealing than before, and dials up the driving experience too. Buyers can choose between four model levels, with a choice of hybrid or petrol-only power. For the first time, Lexus has added a driver-focused performance model to the lineup, adding a turbo to its hybrid know-how.
Prices undercut European rivals by starting from $87,500 (before on-road costs), proving the RX is still the luxury SUV you buy with your head. This lands the 350h Luxury 2WD that uses a tried and tested 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor making 184kw. All-wheel drive increases the price by $4500.
The petrol-only 350 AWD F Sport grade ($99,900) uses a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 205kw/430nm. Next up is the 350 and 350h AWD Sports Luxury ($105,900). Hybrid power costs an extra $6000.
The new 500h F Performance tops the range at $126,000. Its 2.4-litre turbo and hybrid set-up makes an impressive 273kw.
Lexus Australia boss, John Pappas, says the 350h makes up the bulk of initial orders and the other two models account for 25 per cent each.
Unfortunately a global supply crunch means all models already have a wait list of at least several months and anyone ordering a 500h now will likely be circling a date on next year’s calendar. This RX is taller and wider than before, with a longer wheelbase for increased interior space and a wider tyre track for better on-road handling and stability.
The cabin quality is excellent. Supple and textured materials cover all interior surfaces and ample storage, simple climate controls and dials makes for a decluttered dash. The cheapest models have 19-inch alloy wheels,
LED lighting front and rear, heated and electronically adjustable front seats wrapped in faux leather and a 12-speaker Panasonic stereo.
There are six USB points covering both rows and three zone climate control with rear air vents. All models score an impressive 14-inch central touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay. Satnav, digital radio, bluetooth and a digital instrument display boost connectivity.
Lexus beefed up the styling of the F Sport. It has chunky 21-inch black alloy wheels, black exterior highlights on the bumpers, black roof rails and mirror caps and an F Sport grille.
Inside there are sporty, leather-accented seats that provide increased side support compared to other grades.
Aluminium pedals and door and centre console trim add some flair. As does an F Sport steering wheel, gear shifter and front scuff plates. A head-up display projects vital driver information on the windshield and a booming 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo is hard to beat. The front seats add a cooling function and there is a wireless device charger and multiple colour ambient lighting.
Sports Luxury models ditch the F Sport styling cues and dials up the pampering.
It rides on 21-inch alloy wheels, has supple leather accented upholstery and gear shifter and a heated steering wheel with faux wood trim. Rear window shades and power folding rear seats are a boon for young families. The outboard seats in the second row are heated and ventilated. The 500h brings plenty of unique exterior and interior highlights.
All models are covered by an extensive array of safety technology.
The 350h’s dual electric motors and naturally-aspirated petrol engine provide plenty of oomph off the mark and always feels like it has some left in reserve for overtaking at
highway speeds. The CVT auto sounds coarse when pushed.
The petrol-only version and its eight-speed auto feels more responsive and punchy when pushed.
Unfortunately, the hybrid makes do with an older nickel-hydride battery, not a modern lithium-ion unit. It is whisper quiet at cruising speed and well insulated cabin keeps the world at bay. Firmer suspension and big wheels make for a better handling SUV, but the trade off is a ride that can feel jiggly over pockmarked and poor quality road surfaces. It does an admirable job recovering over bigger bumps and divots, though.
Well balanced and weighted steering finds a comfy middle ground, providing reliable and predictable performance on tight, twisting roads. The F Performance has sharper and lighter steering and oodles of grunt delivered more forcefully via its six-speed auto.
The RX is covered by a five year/unlimited km warranty and a capped price servicing program costing $3475 over five years.
VERDICT
The RX is a smart money buy, bringing outstanding luxury value with a composed drive experience.