Lexus debuted the RX450h and RX350 at this year's New York International Auto Show.
Picking up on the more aggressive design language it has adopted for recent models like the RC Coupe, Lexus is bringing out a fourth-generation RX crossover that is designed to raise the “goosebump” factor.
Making its debut at the New York International Auto Show, the 2016 Lexus RX boasts a longer wheelbase, a more lavish interior, and plenty of new digital technology – including a new, low-cost package of collision avoidance features. But it’s the revised design likely to draw attention, especially among the young car buyers Lexus has been heavily targeting lately.
“We gave our designers and engineers more freedom to focus on the things that … elicit an emotional reaction and bring out the goosebumps,” said Mark Templin, the executive vice president of Lexus International.
Lexus has a lot riding on the new RX. The crossover utility, first launched 17 years ago, has become a favored choice of soccer moms and others who want an alternative to a classic minivan. That has given the Lexus steady 25% share of its segment despite the flood of new competitors – currently 16 – that have tried to gain a foothold in the mid-luxury CUV market.
The 2016 Lexus450h faces challenges from a segment that has more competitors than ever.
The bigger challenge has been finding a way to excite the next generation of buyers who, until recently, largely steered clear of the Lexus brand. Demand has been growing with the addition of the F-Sport line and with the brand’s push for more passionate design and driving dynamics.
Lexus is hoping that will carry over to the 2016 RX. The crossover adopts one of the boldest versions of the brand’s so-called spindle grille yet. It features more aggressive front and rear fascias and triple L-shaped LED headlamps.
(Lexus and Toyota introduce low-cost auto-braking system. For more, Click Here.)
From the side, there’s a crisp new character line running nearly the length of the vehicle. The 2016 Lexus RX also adopts a sort of floating roofline that gives the vehicle a more dynamic appearance overall.
What may connect with potential family buyers most, however, is the suite of new safety features. Parent Toyota Motor Co. this week announced plans to offer low-cost packages of crash-avoidance technologies on Toyota and Lexus-brand vehicles.
(Click Here for details about Lexus confirming the debut of the RX in NYC.)
On the luxury brand’s models, that includes pre-collision warning with active braking and pedestrian detection, active cruise control lane-keeping assist and more. The package will be offered for under $650, less than most competitors ask for just active cruise control.
The 2016 Lexus RX will be offered with two powertrain packages. The RX350 features a revised version of its 3.7-liter V-6 rated at 325 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed automatic with manual shifting mode.
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The 2016 RX line also includes a hybrid model, the RX450h, carrying over the existing hybrid system. Lexus expects to see a modest improvement in fuel economy, though final numbers are still being calculated.
The new Lexus RX line will be built in factories in both Japan and Ontario, Canada. It’s expected to reach U.S. showrooms later this year.