We’ve seen it for several years: Lexus has had no complaints about its stylistic approach since the 2010s. Toyota’s luxury brand has also been using it to boost its range with sometimes oversized grilles. The fifth generation of the RX crossover is no exception to this rule, embracing arguably the most controversial design to date.
Posted at 11:45 a.m.
Some will say that this new cuvée is reminiscent of a beluga. No matter, Lexus persists and signs here with a textured grille that blends into a bulging upper part. The profile probably spares the sensitivities a little more with an approach reminiscent of that of compact hatchbacks. At the stern, the long horizontal fire reigns, a major trend in the industry.
But there is not only a stylistic aspect in this redesign. The RX is based on a new platform, the GA-K, which is modular. This increases its rigidity and reduces its weight by 90 kg, according to Lexus. Its wheelbase is also increased by 60 mm.
Four engines will share the control pad, all four-cylinders coupled to all-wheel drive. The first, 2.4 L and turbocharged, produces 275 hp. The second, purely hybrid and based on a 2.5 L Atkinson cycle engine, advances 246 hp, but above all a consumption of 7.1 L/100 km, or 2.7 L/100 km less than the engine of series. The third employs the hybrid in a performance design with 367 hp produced by a 2.4L turbo four-cylinder coupled to two electric motors, including one on the rear axle. Finally, a plug-in version is in preparation.
The 2023 Lexus RX will arrive in dealerships at the end of the year.