2016 Lexus RX First Drive: Canada's best-selling luxury SUV gets bold new style

2016 Lexus RX (photo: Lexus)

The Lexus RX was Canada's best-selling luxury crossover-SUV last year. In other words, the all-new, 2016 version has some big shoes to fill. Now, usually when the outgoing generation of a vehicle has proven to be very successful it means the new vehicle can’t stray too far from the old one to retain existing customers while still trying to win over new buyers. Lexus however, it breaking that mold a bit with a dramatically styled new model. (Watch the 2016 Lexus RX in action)

Success of the RX comes from the company’s reputation for reliability and this crossover’s level of luxury, and its high quality finishes and comfortable ride have persuaded buyers to drive a Lexus.

At the launch event, I was able to drive both the RX 350 and RX 450h models in the preferred F Sport trim.

Walkaround

Lexus’ current design language is undoubtedly striking and dramatic, but it has also been called aggressive and controversial. In contrast to some other Lexus models, the angularity of the RX’s visage is refined, but this crossover is still the most boldly styled vehicle in the segment.

Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and while 20s are optional, unique 20-inchers are standard on the F Sport. Speaking of F Sport, you may think that it’s just an appearance package, and while most of it is, there are a pair of key sporting technologies on board which I'll epxand on later. The most noticeable differences of the F Sport package are the unique front grille and rear bumper. Overall, the RX’s length is increased by nearly five inches.

Interior

From the moment I opened the door of the RX, I found the seats’ design and upholstery to be stunning. It’s simple, modern, and definitely sporting, and the front seats are perfectly comfortable and supportive, at least on my brief drive.

The new dashboard is refreshingly simpler and cleaner than other current Lexus offerings. The straightforward control layout makes the cockpit welcoming and the learning curve is limited, and previous RX owners will enjoy the upgrade. The available veneer finishes, particularly the laser-etched types, are simply stunning.

The F Sport steering wheel is fantastic, with a compact airbag housing and wheel rim thickness that proclaims its sporting intentions. Paddle shifters are standard, and surprisingly welcome, with the F Sport package.

Lexus lengthened the wheelbase by 50 millimetres and it entirely benefits the rear passengers with greater knee and leg room.

Audiophiles will enjoy the optional Mark Levinson sound system and there wasn’t enough time to enjoy it during my brief drive.

Technology

The 12.3” infotainment display fixed atop the dash is new and has excellent resolution. On the other hand, the Remote Touch Interface, that Lexus trademark joystick-like controller is easier to use, but the software interface itself still requires a bit of patience and isn’t as easy to use as Cadillac’s CUE or BMW’s iDrive systems. Where more manufacturers are adding wifi to their cars, it’s not available in the RX, and it’s a glaring omission in today’s world of connected kids with their phones and tablets.

F Sport models get a unique instrument cluster, which curiously includes a G-meter – “Hey Mom, go faster on the onramp this time!” – but with a gauge like this I can’t realistically see any RX driver, or Porsche owners for that matter, using it beyond satisfying the occasional curiosity.

Busy owners will appreciate the available touch free tailgate that requires just a wave of your hand or elbow by the hatch’s Lexus emblem to actuate.

Lexus remains serious about safety, which includes ten air bags, as well as a number of driver and parking assist systems.

Performance

The 3.5-litre V6 is a thoroughly high tech engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, and in the RX 350 is up to 295 horsepower and 268 pounds-feet of torque. The eight speed automatic gives it a tremendous amount of flexibility and the F Sport’s steering wheel mounted paddles gave me exactly the control I was looking for when climbing a fantastic mountain road. While it’s not as eager to shift as BMW’s excellent eight-speed auto, the Lexus’ box is exceptionally smooth.

In hybrid spec, the RX 450h’s total power unit output is increased to a maximum of 308 horsepower and 247 pounds of torque. Power is delivered by a continuously variable transmission and the hybrid system adds 130 kilograms to the RX which is noticeable in back to back drives. For the first time, the RX hybrid is available in F Sport trim and I’m sure that will be the volume seller.

As I alluded to earlier, the F Sport does add a couple of bits of legitimate sporting technology, and in this case, it’s the sort of stuff reserved for high performance sports cars. When you tick the F Sport box on the order form, you not only get the appearance package, but it also includes adaptive damping (Adaptive Variable Suspension in Lexus-speak) as well as an active anti-roll suspension system (Active Stabilizer System per Lexus). Based on my initial drive, all I’m able to say is that the RX’s ride was comfortable and well controlled, and I’ll reserve my judgment on this tech until I have the opportunity for a longer test.

The F Sport package uses a different calibration for the electric power steering, which remains a little over assisted for my liking. As is fashionable with many enthusiast-oriented cars, Lexus subtly amplifies the engine’s intake noise for a more sporting driving experience with the F Sport package.

Lexus says fuel consumption is improved in both models, with a projected consumption of 12.2 litres per 100 kilometres city and 8.9 highway for the RX 350, and 8.2 city for the RX 450h.

Value

In Canada, competition comes from the aging Audi Q5 and this all new design, particularly the interior, places the RX head and shoulders about the Audi. Pricing has yet to be announced, but don’t expect it to stray too far from the 2015 RX 350’s $59,400 or the RX 450h’s $63,250 base prices.

Conclusion

The burning question in my mind is does the bold, edgy design convey luxury? For premium crossover buyers, it certainly does, particularly given that it’s a sale success. With its quiet ride, exceptional interior, and subtly refined styling, drivers looking for a Lexus crossover experience will enjoy the 2016 RX.