Lexus has shown that it has once again redefined the luxury sport utility segment with the unveiling of the 2016 RX at the New York Auto Show.
The 2016 RX with all-new sheet metal makes a powerful visual statement at first glance. A completely new front end is highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Together with the all-new LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, the RX has a more sophisticated and advanced look.
When seen from the side, the sharp character line that runs from the front fenders to the rear end, together with a flowing roofline, give the RX a dynamic profile. A truly distinctive styling cue is the blacked-out C-pillars, which provide the illusion of a floating roofline never before seen on a Lexus product. Also, newly available 20-inch aluminum wheels with larger tires improve the vehicle stance and proportions and replace the current model’s 19-inch options.
The RX’s rear appearance has been sharpened, now exuding a sense of chiseled, rock-solid stability with the design highlighted by LED L-shaped taillights that wrap around the sides of the vehicle, creating a wider, more authoritative presence when illuminated. When lit, a brilliant glow spans laterally from the body to the back door. Integrated dual exhaust pipes have been added to the gas model for a more premium appearance.
Inside, the new luxurious cabin with elegant, high-quality trim exudes warmth and class. Specially finished Yamaha laser-cut ornamentation is available for those who appreciate an additional dimension of interior refinement. An available color heads-up display projects pertinent vehicle information to the driver’s windshield, while the information display area, featuring an available 12.3-inch monitor with full-screen map, is situated atop the center stack. The shift lever, complete with leather boot, has been positioned away from the front of the instrument panel to optimize operability and create more space for the driver.
Rear-seat occupants are treated to more leg and knee space. The RX now offers heated outboard rear seats and a 60/40 power folding second row to enhance comfort and convenience. A newly available retractable power panorama moonroof enhances the cabin’s spaciousness and provides occupants with a refreshing open-air experience. The available rear seat entertainment system now includes 11.6-inch dual screens affixed to the back of the front headrests.
In terms of power, the RX 350 will be offered with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 300 hp sent to the wheels via a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Lexus will also sell you an RX 450h version which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor generator to deliver a combined output of approximately 300 hp.
For the first time on the RX, Lexus is providing an adaptive variable suspension (AVS) which will electronically monitor and adapt the shock absorber damping and steering to help ensure optimal handling and ride comfort. The system is also designed to produce less body lean through corners, providing an engaging driving experience.
For those who prefer even more excitement and performance in their luxury utility vehicles, there is the RX F SPORT (AWD models only), which will be available with both models’ engine offerings for the first time. It adopts a slightly more aggressive body, graphite 20-inch wheels and a custom F SPORT instrument cluster with a TFT Multi Information Display. It also has a sport steering wheel wrapped around in perforated leather while exclusive colors and trim pieces along with an F SPORT emblem and paddle shifters are also part of the package.
More importantly, the RX F SPORT gets an active stabilizer system to keep the body amazingly flat through corners. The driver can select the AVS-enhanced Sport S+ mode, in addition to the standard Eco, Normal and Sport settings, on the Drive Mode Select control located on the center console.
The 2016 Lexus RX will go on sale towards the end of the year.
