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Here's my quick write up after Portland, overall I was impressed with the RX and have no doubt that it's a better vehicle than the outgoing generation. May need to get some people over the exterior looks, but I think they'll be fine with it. It does lack the 3rd row that many were expecting, but they'll look to address that in the years to come.
Overall: In the midst of a complete brand makeover, Lexus is introducing its 2016 RX. Initially introduced in 1998 as the first luxury crossover, the RX quickly became the sales leader for the brand and remains one of just two luxury vehicles to consistently sell over 100,000 units every year (BMW's 3 Series being the other).
Lexus is looking to shed its soft and conservative image, seeking to attract new and youthful buyers, but also maintain their strong, loyal following at the same time. Can Lexus have its cake and eat it too?
Design: Hot on the heels of the angular new NX, the 4th generation RX embraces the continually aggressive and emotional design language of Lexus, at least on the outside. Sharp creases and angles are found on all exterior surfaces, creating a multi-dimensional, sculpted look. While the look is a departure from the soft and bubbly design that has been a hallmark of the RX, Lexus claims its current RX customers have been clamoring for a larger change.
The F-Sport model is differentiated with its mesh spindle grille, blacked out exterior mirrors and unique wheels, which can now be optioned up to 20 inches! Optional triple beam L-shaped LED headlamps create a distinct signature lighting element.
Stepping inside, the elegant RX is highlighted by richer materials and superb fit and finish. Stitched elements cover most of the dash, which can be topped with an available 12.3" widescreen display (8" is standard). Interior customization is achieved through 5 different trim ornamentation styles, including a laser-cut sapele wood with aluminum accents developed by the skilled craftsmen at Yamaha.
Engineering: As is often the case these days, the RX promises more power and more efficiency than the outgoing model. Horsepower rises from 270 to 295 for the RX350, while the hybrid RX450h achieves 308 total system horsepower.
Fuel economy is also up nearly 10% whether you get the RX350 in 2WD or AWD form, estimated respectively at 23 or 22 miles per gallon in combined driving. Efficiency of the hybrid RX450h remains the same at roughly 30 miles per gallon. Part of the efficiency gains for the RX350 can be attributed to the new 8-speed automatic that is standard across both standard and F-Sport trims.
Touchpoints: Technology! The all-new RX will also mark the availability of the "Lexus Safety System +" suite of technology and safety items. This bundle will include an all-speed dynamic radar cruise control system, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert/lane keeping assist, and intelligent high-beam headlamps. Pricing is expected to be ~$500-$635, dramatically below comparable systems currently offered.
Other new features offered in the RX include LED headlamps, a full panoramic moonroof, power folding and heated rear seats, and a hands-free remote access liftgate that opens when you place a hand or elbow over the rear Lexus emblem. One unique element was a height-adjustable cupholder, making it easier for your Starbucks "trenta"-sized cup to not topple over when taking that next turn.
Driving Impressions: Gone are the days in which a luxury car means extreme isolation with a pillow-soft, yet floaty ride. The new 2016 RX looks to achieve enhanced responsiveness with minimal body roll, confident corndering with steering feedback, while continuing to provide a stable and comfortable ride.
The RX350 accelerates smoothly and briskly, with a quiet cabin that delivers on key Lexus trademarks. A stiffened body structure and new suspension geometries allow for improved suspension comfort and agility. Handling is predictable and confidence inspiring. While the RX isn't quite a canyon carver or full-bred sports vehicle, it now handles itself with a composure and dynamic ability that wasn't present previously, even in non F-Sport models.
The F-Sport, now available for the first time on the RX450h in addition to the RX350, takes the sophistication up a notch through its Adaptive Variable Suspension and Sport S+ mode with new "Customize" setting that allows owners to mix and match their favorite powertrain, suspension, power steering and air conditioning modes.
Lexus is looking to shed its soft and conservative image, seeking to attract new and youthful buyers, but also maintain their strong, loyal following at the same time. Can Lexus have its cake and eat it too?
Driving Impressions: Gone are the days in which a luxury car means extreme isolation with a pillow-soft, yet floaty ride.
While the look is a departure from the soft and bubbly design that has been a hallmark of the RX, Lexus claims its current RX customers have been clamoring for a larger change.
There are important questions. I definitely have some opinions and feelings about these issues myself, but, in the RX's case, I don't want to expound too much on them right here until I've had a chance to see and test-drive one myself. For instance, to my eyes, the interior doesn't look all that impressive in pictures, but a number of reviewers (including you) have commented on how nice the actual materials are, and how well they are assembled. That's something that you can't always pick up from images.
Might want to correct one small typo, though...........
the RX promises mower power and more efficiency than the outgoing model. Horsepower rises from 270 to 295 for the RX350,
I think you mean more power. The average lawn mower runs maybe 5 HP.
Lexus quietly released its 2016 model year pricing on its full lineup this week, including the redesigned RX crossover and its first-ever trio of turbocharged cars.
The 2016 RX350 will start at $42,840, a $930 increase over the third-generation model. Adding all-wheel-drive to this V-6 RX will run another $1,400.
At the top of the RX line is the new 450h F-Sport iteration, which starts at $57,985. Based on the success of the F-Sport throughout its lineup, Lexus made the combination of its hybrid RX and F-Sport package available for the first time in 2016.
All prices include a $940 destination charge.
The moves could be key for Lexus in the cutthroat U.S. luxury segment.
U.S. sales growth at Lexus has outpaced rivals BMW and Mercedes this year through September, rising 12 percent in a luxury market that has expanded 8.6 percent. Lexus is also within about 2,500 vehicles of outselling BMW, the leader, and second-place Mercedes for the 2015 U.S. luxury sales crown with three months remaining.
So let’s see if owners should leave their gated communities for a new RX?
Come on, John (Davis). You're a good enough reviewer to know better than that kind of stereotype.
Unlike the rough riding, tightly sprung NX, the RX remains a very smooth operator with a ride that is luxurious without being flabby. So good call here, Lexus.
Agreed. I was not impressed with the NX's ride comfort, either. Neither was Consumer Reports.
…but you’ll also get an Adaptive Variable Suspension as well. And while it takes handling a big step up, most soccer moms will probably just end up leaving things in comfort mode.
Back to stereotypes again.
Fortunately, except for looks, there’s nothing about the 2016 Lexus RX that will impact its appeal to current owners and prospects. It’s still premium in comfort and execution, and remains what most other luxury crossovers aspire to be.
Again, agreed. The polarizing looks are probably going to be the main factor if it sells or not. And, I think John's right....many people will buy it simply on the RX's history and their loyalty to the nameplate. I plan to check out a new RX myself next month when it is released here in the D.C. area. (and you can believe I'm looking forward to it)
I saw the 2016 RX350 at the OC Auto Show last week-end. They had the Sport model on display. I liked the interior but the exterior was a deal breaker for me, the front-overhang just looks awkward.
This design language looks fine on the NX, but it doesn't look very good on the RX, especially from the side profile IMO.
I'm looking for a replacement of my wife's 07 RX-350 and I thought the new RX will fit the bill, now I'm not sure anymore.
I saw the 2016 RX350 at the OC Auto Show last week-end. They had the Sport model on display. I liked the interior but the exterior was a deal breaker for me, the front-overhang just looks awkward.
This design language looks fine on the NX, but it doesn't look very good on the RX, especially from the side profile IMO.
I'm looking for a replacement of my wife's 07 RX-350 and I thought the new RX will fit the bill, now I'm not sure anymore.
You are the statistical sacrifice made by Lexus. What was your wife's opinion? I'm sure she gets a say in what car she drives.
I saw the 2016 RX350 at the OC Auto Show last week-end. They had the Sport model on display. I liked the interior but the exterior was a deal breaker for me, the front-overhang just looks awkward.
it's funny that your username is madmax too. thought that new chunky/transformer external styling would be your thing.
after watching the motorweek review (tv show, which was basically the same as the article link i posted only with video), i still too find the rx awkward looking outside. but the very nice interior, smooth and apparently quieter ride and other safety and drivetrain upgrades should mean the rx sells even better than ever unless the public really rails against the look but i doubt it. it's a jungle out there.
