Upgraded Lexus RX is a striking looker
Now in its fourth incarnation, the Lexus RX became the world's first luxury SUV in 1998 and is historically its best-selling model worldwide.
The new RX retains its mixture of sharp creases and curves and now offers revamped hybrid technology and Lexus Safety System+ package of advanced safety and driver assistance features on all versions
The big Lexus is slightly longer to give more legroom, and still has bags of luxury and power, but also offers cutting edge hybrid technology to deliver the holy grail of potent performance combined with good fuel economy and very low carbon dioxide emissions, certainly for the size of vehicle.
The single petrol engine/electric motor set up boasts massive power, which is needed to propel what is a big lump of metal along.
It is a striking looking motor, particularly in this F Sport guise, with sporty, dynamic exterior styling that features trapezoidal headlamps, back-finished mesh grille, lower spoiler, satin chrome under-run and black door mirrors, plus 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels.
To the rear, the L-shaped LED light clusters extend forward from the tailgate into the rear wings and rear pillars have a blacked-out gloss finish to create a floating roof effect.
Inside the fixtures and fittings scream luxury with attention to the finest detail obvious throughout the light and airy cabin.
The cabin of this model features an eight-inch LCD with a large circular gauge that presents both a tachometer and a digital speed indicator. There are F Sport seats upholstered in perforated leather and drilled, non-slip aluminium accelerator and brake pedals and footrest.
The plush upholstery, thick carpets and classy soft touch finish to dash and doors and features ambient lights that illuminate key controls to the intelligent climate control system.
Navigation, phone and other audio functions are also controlled from here the LCD via what can be quite a fiddly touchpad, while and a wireless phone charger in the centre console allows compatible smartphones to be charged without using a cable. The instrument cluster has large gauges, with a multi-information display positioned between the energy display gauge and the speedometer. The ambient illumination changes according to the drive mode selected – blue for Eco and Normal and red for Sport S and Sport S+
The only thing that feels oddly cheap is the weedy gear selector, but otherwise it's comfortable and luxurious place to be.
All models feature a comprehensive list of equipment, which is what your would expect from motors starting at £44,495.
On the road, the 3.5 litre V6 petrol unit linked with two powerful electric motors and four wheel drive capability where required.
This combination delivers excellent performance with smooth acceleration through the CVT transmission. Floor the pedal and the car leaps forward, hitting 60mph in just 7.7 seconds. Quieten it all down and the big vehicle drops into virtually silent electric power mode only. A claimed 47.8mpg with CO2 emissions of 145g/km means lowish road tax and benefit in kind charges.
Not only that road and wind noise are virtually absent, and for such vehicle, handling characteristics are good.
Like all SUVs, it is a practical vehicle and has generous load space with the seats in place of 496 litres. The cargo space can be increased to provide enough room for four large suitcases or multiple golf bags. A space saver spare wheel and jack are provided as standard, stored in an area beneath the boot floor.
The single touch tumble system allows the rear seats to be folded or split 40-20-40 and create masses of extra space.
On high spec models the air suspension can also be lowered so heavy objects can be lifted out more easily, while the tailgate is electrically powered.
As well as the array of hi-tech equipment, reversing aids and sound systems safety equipment is of the highest standard with a full set of airbags and traction and braking assistance as well as Isofix child seat anchor points.
FAST FACTS
Price: £54,190
Mechanical: 3,456cc, 295bhp V6 petrol engine and electric motors driving all wheels via E-CVT automatic transmission
0-60mph: 7.7 secs
Top speed: 124mph
Combined mpg: 47.8 mpg
Insurance group: 41
C02 emissions: 134g/km
Bik rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000miles
