Lexus has worked hard to rejuvenate and upgrade its entire lineup of vehicles. The 2016 Lexus RX lineup is the most important and one of the final pieces in the big puzzle. The Lexus RX model range comprises 2.8.8% of all Lexus vehicles sold in the United States (using the sales data from first quarter of 2015).
The popular luxury crossover features the latest rendition of the Lexus design language. The sharp-looking headlights flank the large spindle grille up front. The c-pillar incorporates an interpretation of the “floating roof” design feature with a thin blacked out section (not unlike the 2015 Nissan Murano). The rear of the new RX looks familiar, so you can quickly recognize it.
The 2016 model’s wheelbase has been stretched out 1.9 inches, and the overall length is five inches more. There is noticeably more room in the car, especially in the back seat. The interior has the look and feel of the previous RX, but there is a new 12.3 inch center infotainment screen with high resolution graphics. The technology and gauges received a needed upgrade. The panoramic sunroof option is nice addition.
The 3.5L V6 in the RX350 now makes 300 horsepower thanks to direct injection and other upgrades. The hybrid drive in the RX450h also gets a bump in output to “around 300 horsepower”. Lexus did not provide fuel economy estimates, but expect some improvement there as well. The F Sport package is available on both models. There is also a new Adaptive Variable Suspension and Lexus promises better handling and ride.
Lexus did not forget about safety. All of the latest advanced driver-assist technologies can be packaged into a single and affordable Lexus Safety System+. It includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, surround-view camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.
Pricing and dealership availability have not been announced.