Lexus pulled the wraps off its new, fourth-generation RX sport utility vehicle at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) this morning. This pioneer of the luxury SUV segment represents 30 percent of the vehicles the brand has sold in its 26-year history, and now enters 2016 with a fresh look and spec list. As to be expected with any critical product, Lexus isn’t taking huge risk in this iteration of its staple RX and is keeping the update fairly evolutionary, but there are some key aspects worth pointing out.
First off, there is one area in which Lexus has no fear taking risk lately – dramatic exterior design. This trend continues with the new RX, which can be easily seen in its newly aggressive face and “triple L-shaped” LED headlamps. The new look continues along the side with beefier fender flares and 20-inch wheels, and onto the rear with its wide, wrapping L-shaped LED taillights.
Underneath that new skin though, things stay a bit more tame, with updates that are welcomed but hardly groundbreaking. Available in both RX 350 and RX 450h configurations, the new model features updated 3.5-liter V6 engines, both now targeting 300 horsepower (a 30-horsepower jump for the RX 350 but essentially the existing output for the hybrid) and paired to new eight-speed automatic transmissions.
Lexus is touting improved road manners and handling thanks to a strengthened chassis and revised electronic stability systems, as well as a brand-new active suspension setup. We’ll have to take it for a spin to see how this all adds up, but we’re hoping it’ll breathe a little bit of gusto into the RX’s ride. On this topic of driving enjoyment though, it’s also worth mentioning that the F SPORT package is now available for the first time on the RX 450h, a performance-themed setup originally offered on the RX 350 only. Limited to AWD models, the F SPORT mostly features a smattering of sporty bling inside and out, but there are some tweaks to suspension and drive modes as well.
Finally, Lexus is also rolling out its new Lexus Safety System+ on the 2016 RX, which essentially refers to the family of safety systems integrated into the vehicle. These include things like Pre-Collision System and Lane Departure Alert and Lane Keep Assist features, all of which are designed to work in harmony to keep occupants safe and the RX right-side-up.
So while it’s not the stuff of childhood wall poster fantasies, the new RX shouldn’t have any trouble staying relevant in an ever-competitive luxury SUV segment. With its noticeably new appearance and improved specs, we predict it’ll continue enjoying its success as a ubiquitous suburban people-hauler.
See Lexus RX for sale on eBay.
