Lexus RX - FULL OF EASTERN PROMISE

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The revised fourth-generation Lexus RX looks a useful improvement. Jonathan Crouch reckons though, that'll it'll appeal to much the same kind of buyer.

Ten Second Review

Large, plush SUV motoring is personified by the Lexus RX. Since an original launch back in 1998, it's been finding a select but loyal band of buyers, usually with hybrid power - though this car still doesn't offer the clever Plug-in technology now being used by other rivals in this segment. This revised version is better equipped and can, if you wish, also be ordered in 7-seat RX L guise. Let's check it out.

Background

In an era where other brands trumpet hybrid engines in the luxury SUV segment as if they're the latest thing, Lexus can afford to feel rather smug. Toyota's luxury brand has been selling petrol electric power in its RX model in this market sector since 2005 and has further refined that technology in the improved version of the fourth generation design that we're going to look at here. Surprisingly, the brand has chosen - for the moment at least - not to follow rivals in offering buyers hybrid power with a Plug-in option, but it has that technology at its fingertips for the future.

Of course, not every buyer in this part of the market wants a hybrid, but Lexus doesn't agree with the diesel technology that rivals offer. Engines apart, this sharper MK4 model RX looks tempting, though it still won't be the first choice for those prioritising driving dynamics.

Driving Experience

Not too many dynamic changes feature here. Apparently the structure of this revised model's slightly stiffer. There are new shock absorbers. And the RX is now equipped with 'Active Cornering Assist' torque vectoring to maximise cornering traction. There are clever new 'BladeScan Adaptive High-beam headlights too. Otherwise, it's as you were. So what's the RX 450h hybrid like? Well you get in, luxuriate in the beautiful leather seats and enjoy the commanding SUV-style driving position before pressing the starter button to be greeted by.. Nothing. The engine's running, true enough. It's just that at this point, it's doing so silently under battery power alone and if you've a gentle right foot, that's all it will continue to use at speeds of up to 30mph before the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine kicks in, controlled via a six-speed CVT auto gearbox.

This mechanical package is much as it was before, with power rated at 308bhp and there's a useful 335Nm of torque for towing. It sounds good too, thanks to a sound generator system that creates a performance-style air intake roar. The E-Four 4WD system's functions have been tuned for sharp response when accelerating through bends. Don't expect too much in terms of off piste ability though. Lexus doesn't think potential buyers will be interested - and they're probably right. Instead, the brand has concentrated on improving the tarmac response of it's the steering and suspension systems in recent years, so as to create a more involving drive. And sure enough, the RX is still one of the most comfortable, refined SUVs in its class.

Design and Build

As before, there are two body styles - standard five-seat RX and seven-seat RX L. In this revised form, both variants get smarter bumpers and a re-designed front spindle grille. Inside, there's the same classy, spacious cabin that sits its passengers relatively low for better headroom. Lexus always does interiors very well, with lashings of leather and high quality trim.

The brand has revised the multi-media centre-dash touchscreen and (at last) added in 'Apple CarPlay' and 'Android Auto' smartphone-mirroring into it. In fact, this car is now very well connected indeed. Using voice control, RX owners can access Apple Siri or Google Assistant via their smartphones. And they can also choose whether or not to use the Lexus Navigation system fitted in the vehicle or an alternative service on their smartphone.

The Japanese designers say that they have paid special attention to the comfort of rear seat passengers with this RX. Lowering the rear floor section has produced a seating position that bears comparison with the LS limousine. In the seven-seat RX L variant, the third row chairs now have two different seating positions, with the additional new setting giving more legroom for the occupant when required. On both RX derivatives, cargo capacity remains slightly compromised by the hybrid batteries beneath the floor, though will be sufficient for most owners. There's a 453-litre boot with the second row seat back up in the RX model - which falls to 432-litres in an RX L model with the same configuration in place.

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