After releasing the first preview of the car in mid-May, Lexus released a major overhaul and updated model for the RX series on June 1, showcasing the new generation of luxury crossover SUV developed using the GA-K platform to global car fans. before. In addition to the introduction of "electrified" design elements, coupled with the space performance and technological interior design obtained by lengthening the wheelbase by 60mm, the new generation RX introduces the Direct4 petrol-electric four-wheel drive architecture and the DRS rear axle steering assist system for the first time. It is expected to be launched in 2022 At the end of the year, it will be launched on the market in various places.
The new generation design still maintains the basic elements of the current RX, just like the previously released major facelift NX. By retaining the current generation design style and adding the brand's new generation design language, it establishes a sense of brand "heritage" , especially the C and D pillars can be clearly connected with the current RX. However, Lexus has added more "electrified" elements to the overhauled RX, such as the frameless spindle grille, which has a bit of RZ design style. The use of L-Shape daytime running lights, light strip rear taillights, and the "LEXUS" brand words evenly arranged in the center of the rear of the car are all Lexus's new generation family design styles.
Stepping into the car, the new generation RX exudes a strong sense of technology, including a fully digital virtual instrument panel, HUD head-up display, and a touch-sensitive multimedia system up to 14 inches, creating a technological cockpit that is more in line with the expectations of modern consumers. . Through the Tazuna all-around cockpit design concept, luxurious and comfortable interior materials, and the E-Latch electronic door handle introduced with the NX, the technology maintains the luxury and comfort that a luxury SUV should have.
The appearance size of the facelifted RX has not been significantly adjusted. The length of the car remains at 4,890mm, the width of the car is widened by 25mm to 1,920mm, and the height of the car is reduced to 1,695mm. It is compressed by 10mm compared with the current version, making the RX more attractive. The low profile also helps lower the center of gravity of the body and improves handling performance. At the same time, Lexus also lengthened the wheelbase by 60mm by shortening the front and rear overhangs. The 2,850mm wheelbase is expected to provide more spacious rear seat space.
In addition to the appearance and interior updates, Lexus also introduced a new powertrain for the RX. Lexus said that the new generation of RX will provide power options such as RX 500h, RX 450h+, RX 350h and RX 350. The RX 350 will be powered by Lexus’ newly developed 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, paired with an 8-speed manual transmission. It provides two combinations of front-wheel drive and full-time four-wheel drive. The power output is the same as the NX 350, with a maximum output of 279 horsepower and 130N·m torque.
RX 350h is based on a 2.5-liter gasoline naturally aspirated engine and is paired with a CVT continuously variable transmission. It can choose between front-wheel drive or E-Four full-time four-wheel drive combination. According to the US-spec model specification information currently announced by Lexus , the RX 350h E-Four model can produce a combined output of 246 horsepower and 315N·m torque. The RX 450h+ uses a 2.5-liter gasoline naturally aspirated engine as its core, coupled with a PHEV plug-in gasoline-electric hybrid system. It is expected to be similar to the NX 450h+, providing a comprehensive output of 309 horsepower.
The RX 500h, which was exposed for the first time, is powered by a new Hybrid hybrid power system using a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a Direct4 four-wheel drive architecture. The front axle is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. As for the power source, the rear axle is directly driven through eAxle, that is, an electric motor is used to drive the rear axle, and then a control unit is used to integrate the power output of the front and rear axles, resulting in a comprehensive output of 367 horsepower and 550N·m torque. In addition, the RX 500h F Sport Performance model can be equipped with a DRS rear axle steering system, making the large new-generation RX more flexible.
Safety equipment is the introduction of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 driving safety assistance system, which integrates driving physiological state monitoring, pedestrian, car and non-motor vehicle detection, as well as PCS early warning safety protection with active emergency braking assistance, and integrates curves DRCC active distance control cruise with speed control function, LDA lane keeping assist and EDSS emergency assistance system, etc., establish semi-autonomous driving assistance that meets the Level 2 definition.
Lexus said that the new generation RX is expected to be launched in markets around the world before the end of 2022.
