- Bolder Design Language for Best-Selling
Luxury SUV
- F SPORT Available for AWD Models
- Lexus Safety System+ Integrates Active
Safety Technology into One High-Value Package
- Available Adaptive Variable Suspension
for Optimal Handling and Ride
Lexus has shown that it has once again redefined the luxury
sport utility segment with the unveiling of the all-new RX at the
2015 New York Auto Show today. As the best-selling model in the
brand’s 26-year history—with global sales of more than 2.1 million
units—the RX represents three out of ten vehicles ever sold by
Lexus. The 2016 RX builds on that trend with a completely new,
luxurious interior to match its fresh, new, chiseled body style.
The large dose of Lexus brand DNA that’s been artfully incorporated
into the details can not only be seen, but also felt. The new
fourth-generation RX also boasts exceptional on-road performance
and safety technologies that include the innovative Lexus Safety
System+.
All-new 2016 Lexus RX luxury utility
vehicle revealed at New York International Auto Show. (Photo:
Business Wire)
"With the new Lexus Safety System+, we offer drivers an added
level of occupant safety in a conveniently bundled package that
leverages some of the latest accident prevention technology. We
certainly expect the proliferation of these features to continue
throughout the luxury vehicle market and our Lexus lineup as the
industry remains steadfast in the pursuit of enhanced vehicle
safety," said Jeff Bracken, Group Vice President and General
Manager Lexus Division.
Takayuki Katsuda, the Chief Engineer of the new RX said, “Our
ambition has been to make a bold and completely new statement in
this segment while building on and staying true to the pioneering
values of previous RX generations.”
A Bold Exciting New Look
The RX with all-new sheet metal makes a powerful visual
statement at first glance. A completely new front end is
highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front
bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Together with
the all-new LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, the RX
has a more sophisticated and advanced look. Muscular front fender
flares add to the vehicle’s sporty attitude.
When seen from the side, the sharp character line that runs from
the front fenders to the rear end, together with a flowing
roofline, give the RX a dynamic profile. All of this helps make the
vehicle sure-footed at high speed and reduces wind noise. A truly
distinctive styling cue is the blacked-out C-pillars, which provide
the illusion of a floating roofline never before seen on a Lexus
product. Also, newly available 20-in. aluminum wheels with larger
tires improve the vehicle stance and proportions and replace the
current model’s 19-in. options. These 20-inch wheels can also be
customized with body color-matching inserts to emphasize the
driver’s individuality.
The new RX’s rear appearance has been sharpened, now exuding a
sense of chiseled, rock-solid stability with the design highlighted
by LED L-shaped taillights that wrap around the sides of the
vehicle, creating a wider, more authoritative presence when
illuminated. When lit, a brilliant glow spans laterally from the
body to the back door, a Lexus-first. Integrated dual exhaust pipes
have been added to the gas model for a more premium appearance.
Inside, RX’s new luxurious cabin with elegant, high-quality trim
exudes warmth and class. Specially finished Yamaha laser-cut
ornamentation is available for those who appreciate an additional
dimension of interior refinement. An available color heads-up
display (HUD) projects pertinent vehicle information to the
driver’s windshield, while the information display area, featuring
an available 12.3-in. monitor with full-screen map, is situated
atop the center stack. The shift lever, complete with leather boot,
has been positioned away from the front of the instrument panel to
optimize operability and create more space for the driver.
Rear-seat occupants are treated to more leg and knee space. The
RX now offers heated outboard rear seats and a 60/40 power folding
second row to enhance comfort and convenience. A newly available
retractable power panorama moonroof enhances the RX cabin’s
spaciousness and provides occupants with a refreshing open-air
experience. The available rear seat entertainment system now
includes 11.6-in. dual screens affixed to the back of the front
headrests.
“Even while ensuring a high level of luxury and space within the
cabin, the RX’s silhouette remains sleek and dynamic, while the
interior has been designed for easy operation with luxurious
execution,” said Gen Ikeda, Lexus RX chief designer.
Smooth, Powerful and Efficient Engines Under the Hood
Under the RX 350’s hood is an upgraded and more powerful
3.5-liter V6 aiming to deliver 300 hp with direct injection, mated
to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Based on this enhanced
powertrain is the RX 450h’s Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6. When
combined with the electric motor generator, the combined output
results in around 300 hp. All RX engines have been tuned in
anticipation of high fuel economy ratings and low carbon
emissions.
Enhanced Handling and Straight-line Stability
When it comes to delivering precise, controlled handling, the
new RX offers impressive dynamic capability. The entire chassis has
been fortified to provide enhanced straight-line stability and
control through turns. The vehicle’s body structure has been
strengthened with added stiffness, helping to enhance its handling
response while reducing engine and road noise in the cabin. Vehicle
Stability Control (VSC) is standard, while Vehicle Dynamics
Integrated Management (VDIM) is available on select models. Each
system is designed to help recognize loss of vehicle control, and
help mitigate potentially dangerous situations with automatic and
often transparent adjustments to help the vehicle maintain optimal
traction. The RX also is offered in All-Weather Drive to help the
RX’s handling performance and control on dry and slick surfaces
alike.
The RX’s fully independent suspension system, which consists of
MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone setup at rear, has
been tuned and reinforced to enhance handling while keeping ride
quality remarkably smooth. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is
available on the RX for the first time. AVS electronically monitors
and adapts the shock absorber damping and steering to help ensure
optimal handling and ride depending on the driving conditions. The
system is also designed to produce less body lean through corners,
providing an engaging driving experience.
In the U.S., the RX is available with specifically designed
Michelin Premier tires featuring EverGrip™ technology. EverGrip™
technology has a high traction compound, expanding rain grooves
that widen over time and emerging grooves which open as the tire
wears.
Safety is a Priority with Lexus Safety System+
Lexus has always stressed safety in all of its vehicles, so it
should come as no surprise that the new RX is enhanced in the areas
concerning the well-being of its occupants. Among the changes is
Lexus Safety System+, which can help avoid or mitigate collisions
across a wide range of vehicle speeds under certain conditions.
Introduced globally, Lexus Safety System+ integrates several of the
brand’s existing active safety technologies. These include the
Pre-Collision System (PCS) that is designed to detect sudden stops
initiated by the preceding vehicle and can engage automatic braking
in certain circumstances; Lane Departure Alert (LDA), which issues
an audible signal if it determines that the vehicle has strayed
from its intended lane; and Automatic High Beam (AHB) that helps
ensure optimal forward visibility during nighttime driving. As part
of a multi-faceted approach to active safety, the Lexus Safety
System+ package utilizes a millimeter-wave radar that works
together with a camera to help keep the RX in its intended driving
lane via the Lane Keep Assist feature (LKA) and enhances target
detection for the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full stop
capability under certain circumstances. Other available features
that can help the driver include Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), a
Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear
Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
RX F SPORT
For those who prefer even more excitement and performance in
their luxury utility vehicles, there is the RX F SPORT (AWD models
only), which will be available with both models’ engine offerings
for the first time. Lexus vehicles designated with the F SPORT
badge are equipped with a number of special visual and performance
features that set them apart from other versions. In the RX’s case,
the spindle grille and lower center piece of the rear bumper
incorporate an “F” mesh design, instantly giving the vehicle a
sportier flair. New 20-inch alloy wheels with graphite finish,
exclusive to the F SPORT, also help give the RX a commanding
presence. Inside, the driver is treated to a custom F SPORT
instrument cluster with a TFT Multi Information Display (MID) as
well as a sport steering wheel, featuring perforated leather trim,
an F SPORT emblem, and paddle shifters. Exclusive colors and
trim pieces are also part of F SPORT.
The RX F SPORT’s performance on the road has been enhanced by an
active stabilizer system whose cutting-edge technology helps keep
the vehicle’s body amazingly flat through corners. The
aforementioned AVS, which also helps keep the vehicle planted to
driving surfaces through turns, is standard on RX F SPORT. The
driver can select the AVS-enhanced Sport S+ mode, in addition to
the standard Eco, Normal and Sport settings, on the Drive Mode
Select control located on the center console.
The Luxury SUV Bar Has Been Raised Yet Again by the New
RX
Whatever version of the RX you choose, one thing is perfectly
clear: Lexus’ best-selling vehicle has dramatically raised the bar
yet again in the mid-size luxury utility segment, flawlessly
combining bold luxury styling inside and out, and engaging driving
performance.
“The pioneering spirit of Lexus drives us to create new
technology and gives rise to new ideas. It allows us to introduce
new vehicles with leading-edge features. And indeed, we are
committed to bringing ‘progressive luxury’ to the world. I believe
this new RX will not only surprise new customers, but will also
delight and satisfy our loyal customers, whose high expectations
will be met by many new innovations,” said Katsuda.
2016 RX Preliminary
Specifications
RX 350 RX 450h Overall length 192.5 in. 192.5
in. Overall width 74.6 in. 74.6 in. Overall height 66.5 in. 66.5
in. Wheelbase
109.8 in.
109.8 in. Tread (Fr/Rr) 64.6 in./64.2 in.
64.6 in./64.2 in.
Wheels
18-inch
20-inch available
18-inch
20-inch available
Tires
18”- 235/65
20”- 235/55
18”- 235/65
20”- 235/55
Lexus launched in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment
to pursue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has expanded its
line-up to meet the needs of global luxury customers. Lexus is now
going beyond its reputation for high quality vehicles with the
integration of innovative technology, emotional exterior and
interior designs, and engaging driving dynamics and performance.
With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the
luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models and
one F performance model. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are
sold through 235 dealers who are committed to exemplary customer
service.
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