Lexus says RX plug-in hybrid will be core model for Europe

Dynamic exterior design

To achieve a bolder stance for the new RX, Lexus designers extended the hood, lengthened the wheelbase by 60 mm and lowered the roofline by 10 mm to 1710 mm. The signature slanted black rear pillar, which creates what Lexus calls a floating roof and gives the car a coupe-like appearance, is now more three-dimensional. Triple LED headlights are sleeker, sharper and more horizontal. 

“First we created a dynamic exterior design to express a captivating, engaging presence, and a solidly planted stance to evoke driving performance,” RX Chief Engineer Takaaki Ohno said in a statement.

The RX’s length is unchanged at 4890mm, with the rear overhang shortened by 60 mm to allow for the longer wheelbase. Width has been increased by 25 mm to 1920 mm. 

To make the minimalist interior more driver-centered, Lexus developed the Tazuna cockpit concept, which aims for direct yet intuitive control. Introduced first on the new NX and RZ models, it takes its name from the Japanese word for reins. Information sources such as the multimedia screen, centralized gauges and head-up display are grouped so their content can be read with minimal eye and head movement. 

The RX features a 14-inch central touch screen as standard. In addition to the embedded navigation system, the new RX also provides cloud services in markets where the service is available. The car’s data communication module provides always-on connectivity, providing live information on traffic events, accidents and road conditions. 

The new multimedia system includes the smart voice assistant “Hey Lexus” that responds to questions and commands given in a more natural style of language. 

In addition to remote functions available on the Lexus Link app such as driving analytics, hybrid coaching, fuel level monitoring and “find my car” function, new functions include monitoring the level of battery charge, scheduling charging and a charging timer. The app also allows locking and unlocking the vehicle, opening the tailgate, operating the climate control, and flashing the hazard lights to identify the car in a parking lot.

The new RX offers the third generation of the Lexus Safety System+, with improved pre-collision system, new proactive driver assist and extended safety package.