Is that AVS?

 

Meh, MB uses a foot sensor too now. I dont think there is a patent on it

 

Correct. Lexus did introduce a variable-damping system on the 1997 ES. The first GM Magna-Ride system was used on the 2002 Cadillac STS. But Infiniti beat them both with an active-suspension Q45a in 1991, though the system was less-sophisticated than on either the Lexus or Cadillac. There were few takers, BTW, on the Q45a.

 

AVS on steroid. Magnetic damping technology using a special magnetic fluid and electromagnets. First perfected by GM's Delphi for automotive applications:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetorheological_fluid

 

Which exterior styling do you guys like better: this 2016 RX or Acura's MDX?

 

 

OMG! Lexus, I'm sorry we all asked you to take chances with future designs, because now it's getting out of hand.

That grill is atrociously large, the overhang laughable and the profile filled with creases. I think the NXt is going to sell a ton, but this one? The rear end is the best part of the whole vehicle. Interior is nice too.

It just doesn't flow well, with that relatively soft rear end, and such an aggressive-looking front end....and the profile doing its best to connect the two, but it fails.

We need some refreshed designs and toned-down grills quick, because this is just getting out of hand now. It's almost as if they're designing around the grill, trying to make it all work....to no avail.

 

So, Lexus is saying that this new RX redefines segment with Style, Ride Comfort, and Luxury Unility. Can we agree with that?

 

Ride comfort? Likely.

Luxury utility? That's a stretch, with so many luxury crossovers flowing into the market these days.

Styling? Oh yes, it certainly redefines the segment, but not in a way that many will appreciate. Maybe we just asked Lexus for too much.

 

I like the NX but this RX is just .

Reminds me of this beauty.

 

I read somewhere that Ford developed the Escape's foot-sensor tailgate opener in cooperation with an independent supplier. As the original technology partner, Ford got to use the technology first, for a few years, after which the supplier could sell to other auto manufacturers.

There are now other automakers using a similar system (including GM and Hyundai), some of which were available at the same time that Ford's technology came out (Mercedes-Benz), so there is likely more than one supplier producing this. Each is probably a little different from the others, which allows each supplier to patent their version of it.

If an automaker wants the system, they can go shopping to the various suppliers tht offer it.

 

I disagree on the styling, there was a time when almost everyone said that Toyota and Lexus was boring. You can't say that now? Either was it gets a response. I didn't get it at first, but after seeing how dull and sedated the MKX was in person, I can see why a response is warranted.

 

The spindle grill is polarizing, it works on some models, it is more prominent on others. Beats boring and bland. I remember one moderator / senior poster here that used to call BMW's kidney grill design the pig's snout.

Honestly, everyone said the NX's grill was atrocious, once it got released and people saw it in person, it is more acceptable. The same happened with the GS and the 3IS.

 

Good analysis, Kevin. I'm pretty much on the same page as you. The people in the styling department have clearly overdone it.

 

....boring or not, it sold.