Lexus RX specs announced for Aus

LEXUS Australia will launch a new iteration of its RX large SUV range in Australia early next year with petrol and hybrid drivelines available across the range.

Although a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) driveline for the RX has been announced, there is as yet no confirmation for Australia.

The fifth generation RX has been completely modernised, says Lexus, built on a new platform that offers more luxury and comfort than before while also adding more safety, technology and a “sporting flair to the way it looks, feels and drives”.

Lexus says the RX should appeal more broadly than in previous generations and will lead with the two-wheel drive RX350h and all-wheel drive RX350h (hybrid) before being joined by the turbocharged and all-wheel drive RX350 (petrol) and RX500h F Sport Performance variants later in the year.

It is the first time Lexus has offered the RX with two distinct hybrid powertrain solutions since it first offered a hybridised RX back in 2006. It has sold 9794 RX hybrid variants locally since then, contributing to global sales of more than 3.5 million units.

As for the RX350h, the latest version of the brand’s 184kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is available with two- and all-wheel drive while the petrol-only RX350 offers 205kW from its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-pot. 

Flagship RX500h F Sport Performance variants combine the turbocharged mill with electric motors to offer a combined output of 273kW and 550Nm, claimed to send the SUV from rest to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds.

Positioned on the rear axle, the electric eAxle motor offered in the RX500h F Sport Performance provides what Lexus calls Direct4 all-wheel drive handling and stability, the variant also boasting six-piston front brakes, adaptive damping, dynamic rear steering, and 21-inch aluminium wheels as standard.

Measuring 4890mm in length (unchanged from its predecessor), the new RX offers a longer wheelbase (up 60mm to 2850mm) to provide more interior space, the distance between the front and rear hip points growing by 12mm. An extra 50mm length is found in the luggage compartment.

Overall width grows 25mm (to 1920mm) while the front track is 15mm wider than before, the rear track 45mm wide and the overall height reduced by 10mm (to 1695mm). Lexus says the changes, together with a 15mm reduction in the centre of gravity and overall weight reduction of 90kg, gift the RX with a “safer and more faithful driving experience”.

“RX is synonymous with Lexus in Australia. It has helped forge the Lexus brand here, pioneering the luxury SUV concept and winning customers with its refined luxury and thoughtful design,” said Lexus Australia CEO John Pappas.

“The all-new RX builds on the model's long-standing qualities but now encapsulates it in a thoroughly modern and more sporting package that still delivers high on comfort and elegance.

“The Lexus human centred Tazuna concept builds the interior around the occupants with considered design touches to enhance the experience for driver and passengers alike. The RX is not only a great car to drive, but a great car to ride in.”

Mr Pappas said final specification and pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.