New York stages new Lexus RX debut

LexusLexusJapan, 1989 > present26 models
1504 photos
6 videos
is launching the fourth generation of the Lexus RXLexus RXJapan, 1998 > present4 series
40 versions
107 photos
at this year's New York International Motor Show, which will be on sale later this year.

Compared to the previous generation, the new RX is slightly longer, wider and taller. In terms of design Lexus has brought some visual cues of its current model family. The car includes the large spindle grille at the front, flared wheel arches and new fog lights.

A new design feature can be found at the rear in the L-shaped tail-light clusters, which says gives a more “authoritative” presence on the road. The new RX is equipped with 20in alloy wheels, which can be customised with coloured inserts.

The interior of the RX gets a 12.3in infotainment screen, a new head-up display and a new panoramic sunroof. Thanks to the larger wheelbase of the new RX, the new generation offers more interior space.

The new RX will be available with an upgraded and more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 petrol engine aiming at delivering 300 hp, mated with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, and as full hybrid model. The hybrid powertrain will feature an improved Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V-6 engine. When combined with the electric motor, the total output will be around 300 hp. All RX engines have been tuned to achieve high fuel economy and low carbon emissions.

The RX F-Sport gets a new mesh for the grille and front bumper, exclusive alloy wheel designs and instrument cluster. The car also gets steering wheel-mounted paddles. The performance version of the new RX also gets a new active stabiliser system, which helps to keep the car level through corners, as well as adaptive variable suspension. Drivers can also a select a new Sport S+ mode inside.

Lexus has also introduced on the new RX SUV its Safety System+, which combines existing technologies such as pre-emergency braking, lane departure warning and automatic high-beam lights. A new lane-keeping assistance feature has also been introduced in the system and also works with the car’s adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive lighting, a panoramic view camera system and a blind-spot monitoring system are also available as optional safety features.

In Europe the new RX will be facing the competition of models such as the Range Rover SportLand Rover Range Rover Sport Gen.2United Kingdom, 2013 > present36 versions
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, BMW X5BMW X5 Gen.3Germany, 2014 > present14 versions
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and Mercedes-Benz GLEMercedes-Benz GLE Gen.1Germany, 2015 > present9 versions
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.