2016 Lexus RX unveiled at the 2015 New York International Auto Show.Darren McGee/The Globe and Mail
Vehicle
The Lexus RX has long been the premium brand's crossover flag bearer, proving to be a sales leader through three iterations since 1998. This fourth generation 2016 RX looks to keep a good thing going.
Signature feature
Lexus says "a completely new front end is highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Together with the all-new LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, the RX has a more sophisticated and advanced look. Muscular front fender flares add to the vehicle's sporty attitude." We've never understood that cow catcher grille, a Lexus staple, but it's hard to argue with success.
What else is new?
Blacked-out C-pillars provide the illusion of a floating roofline; rear-seat occupants get more leg and knee space; there's an available retractable power panorama moonroof and the RX is loaded to the gills with safety features and infotainment options, including 11.6-inch dual screens planted firmly to the back of the front headrests.
Under the hood
The new RX 350 is upgraded to a 3.5-litre V-6 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, boosting horsepower by 30 to 300. The RX 450h also puts out 300 horsepower.
When can we buy it and for how much?
Both the 350 and 450h should be in showrooms by the end of the year. No word yet on pricing but the current model starts at $51,100.
Cool quotient
3.5 stars (out of 5)
The tweaks to the new RX should keep it at the fore of the luxury crossover pack. That's good news for workers at the Cambridge, Ont., plant where it is assembled.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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