The new Lexus RX offers a breakthrough in dynamic behavior and three electrified powertrains: RX 500h turbo hybrid, RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid and RX 350h hybrid
Lexus has completely redesigned the luxury SUV RX and developed a new design language for the model’s fifth generation, including a “double arrowhead body” with new sharper headlights and narrower tracks. 15 mm higher, reflecting the lower center of gravity and presence of the car. The bonnet has been lengthened, moving the front pillar further back, and the wheelbase has been increased by 60 mm. The rear of the vehicle feels powerful, thanks to a shorter overhang, wider track (45mm more) and a seamless transition from the wheel arches to the taillights. In terms of wheel options, new 21-inch alloy wheels stand out, the largest yet for the RX, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic image and presence.
The RX’s interior exudes luxury through simplicity, seen in the way the dashboard flows neatly and seamlessly to encompass the instrument panel and door panels. The RX is available with a new, larger panoramic roof, the front part of which can be opened. The new multimedia system has a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical buttons for frequently used functions, minimizing driver head movements.
The new platform body, specially designed for the RX, offers a range of benefits, such as the lower center of gravity (15 mm less), the longer wheelbase (2,850 mm, 60 mm more) and wider tracks (15 mm more front track). and 50 mm more at the rear), which is achieved with the same body length as the current RX (4.89 meters). Access to the passenger compartment is now easier thanks to a lower driving position and power seat adjustment. In terms of content, the trunk is not inferior to the current RX, with a volume of 612 liters.
Power delivery is controlled by the DIRECT4 system, a new rimpull technology exclusive to Lexus. This intelligent four-wheel drive system uses a separate electric motor and inverter to distribute power and torque consistently between the front and rear axles of the vehicle in any driving situation. It automatically and continuously adjusts the tractive effort between the two axles, faster and more accurately than any mechanical system, and better reflects the feel of the road behind the wheel.
The RX 500 model, priced at 111,300 euros, is the most powerful in the range: a turbo petrol hybrid with the DIRECT4 system with a six-speed automatic transmission and an output of 371 hp. It offers a record 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 8 litres. The new RX 500h model is Lexus’ first turbocharged hybrid, developed to deliver maximum performance but with all the benefits of hybrid technology. The front electric motor is located between the combustion engine and the transmission. At the rear it is equipped with an 80 kW electric axle. Power delivery is controlled by the DIRECT4 system, which distributes constant power and torque between the front and rear axles in every driving situation.
The 450h version (from 88,500 euros) is the first plug-in hybrid RX, with a 2.5-liter displacement and an output of 309 hp. It is able to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and records a minimum consumption of 1.2 liters of petrol while driving by combining the electrical power of the batteries and the petrol engine, with an autonomy in electric mode of 65 kilometers. When the batteries run out and only the combustion engine is used, the average consumption goes to almost 8 liters at moderate speeds.
Finally, the RX 350h (from 81,300 euros) mounts an economical 2.5-liter self-charging hybrid engine with an output of 250 hp. With a record time of 7.9 seconds to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h, it has a minimum average fuel consumption of 6.3 liters and is characterized by the smoothness and efficiency of its hybrid system.
The new RX offers advanced connectivity that is faster and more stable, with the latest multimedia technology, always-on services and the convenience of over-the-air updates. The RX comes standard with a 14-inch touchscreen, one of the largest in its category. The new RX have a standard data subscription for 4 years; there are no additional costs and you don’t need to pair your phone to access cloud services.
The new RX features advanced active safety and driver assistance systems integrated into the new generation of the Lexus Safety System Plus, with enhanced functions and a greater range of accident risk detection and prevention. The new version of the Pre-Crash Safety system now makes it possible to detect motorcycles during the day, as well as other objects in the vehicle’s path. It can also detect the risk of a frontal collision with oncoming traffic or crossing pedestrians when turning left or right at an intersection. Emergency Steering Assist engages when the driver performs an evasive maneuver to avoid another vehicle or an obstacle in the RX’s lane, applying additional steering torque to maintain vehicle stability and prevent the vehicle from skidding. deviates from his lane.
The RX’s Proactive Driver Assistance system improves safety and reduces driver strain at low speeds in urban traffic. It includes three functions: obstacle anticipation assistance, braking assistance and steering assistance. Using the camera on the front of the vehicle, risks can be detected, such as pedestrians about to cross the road or run into the shoulder, as well as cyclists and parked vehicles. If there is a risk of a collision, apply force to the brakes and steering to avoid the obstacle, without leaving the lane you are traveling in. It differs from the pre-collision safety system in that it recognizes accident risks earlier and activates assistance so that the risk does not increase.
The RX’s electronic door release system combines with the vehicle’s blind spot detector to provide the Safe Exit Assist function. This function prevents the doors from opening if a car or cyclist approaching from behind is detected. Lexus estimates that this system can help prevent more than 95% of accidents caused by opening doors.
Deceleration Assist helps the car to brake smoothly when the driver takes off the accelerator pedal; for example, when approaching another vehicle or around a bend. If the system determines that normal engine braking is not braking the car sufficiently, additional braking is applied.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
