Lexus’ advanced hybrid SUV has power and luxury to spare
What is a quintessential family automobile that even an enthusiast-driver dad would be happy to have? The Lexus RX SUV may very well be the most well-balanced automobile in the company’s lineup. It embodies all the elements that have made Lexus a purveyor of some of the most coveted luxury cars: a powerful drive system, spacious interior, and sumptuous equipment. Add to that, Lexus’ expertise in producing some of the quietest, most refined, and most efficient vehicles, and you have one desirable SUV. In many ways, the Lexus RX shares characteristics that would make for a competent and proud father:
Powerful and efficient
Start with the powertrain. The Lexus RX 450h features a full hybrid system that is self-charging, so you get the added efficiency of electrified driving without having to worry about range and recharging. A 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 petrol engine is augmented by front and rear motors powered by a battery. The SUV’s electronic all-wheel-drive system uses a compact three-shaft configuration that saves weight and space. Auxiliary equipment such as the power control unit and water pump have been made more efficient, in an example of Lexus’ attention to the smallest detail. The hybrid system produces 308hp for a brisk acceleration time of 7.7 seconds from 0-100kph. Yet its fuel mileage is an impressive 17.54. You can switch the RX hybrid to EV mode for all-electric driving when battery and driving conditions are appropriate.
The advanced powertrain is wrapped in the RX’s distinctively sporty bodyshell. The tall body and high ground clearance of the SUV are balanced by the rakish profile and L-accent on the greenhouse. Sharp creases located all around the vehicle, from front fenders to the doors, lend much character to the RX. Modern touches include LED headlights, L-shaped taillights, customizable 20-inch alloys, and panoramic sunroof.
Considerate and welcoming
Inside is where the Lexus embodies omotenashi: its brand of hospitality that anticipates the needs of its customers. A large 12.3-inch touchscreen system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Audio connectivity. Lexus characterizes the cabin as “spacious yet intimate,” and indeed there is even an available RX model that has enough space for a third row of seats. The RX 350 L features additional seats that can fold flat if you need more cargo volume.
Knowledgeable about advanced engineering
The RX features advanced assembly techniques that give it a highly rigid and safe platform. Additional spot welds in the rocker panels, rear wheelhouses and the underbody are combined with structural adhesives to make the RX structure stronger. An extra 14 weld points and 4.2 meters of adhesive were added. Laser screw welding and the use of high-tensile steel are used in the underbody cross members and the front and center pillar sections. Ring-frame construction is used around the front and rear doors, and the rear frame features additional spot welds, too. The resulting chassis gives the RX improved ride refinement and more responsive handling.
Practical and safe
The Lexus RX features five modes that allow easy adjustment of its driving characteristics, from Normal and Eco, for efficient driving, to Sport and Sport S+, for carving up your favorite twisty road. There’s also a Custom mode to tailor the settings to one’s liking. LED cornering lamps, parking assist monitor, power rear hatch with hands-free kick sensor: all of these make everyday operation of the RX easier and more convenient.
For dads who like to burn rubber, there’s the Lexus F Sport package. The F Sport variant adds exclusive instrument dials, performance-oriented steering wheel and pedals, and dimpled leather seats.
Four variants of the RX are available: the RX 350 Premier (P4,498,000); the RX 350L (P4,978,000), the RX 350 F Sport (P5,158,000); and the RX 450h (P5,398,000). Each has been engineered and built both with precision high-tech assembly methods and the quality one expects from Lexus’ Takumi master craftsmen.
