Reinventing World-Class
Lexus has been trying to reinvent itself lately with more dynamic styling and a greater emphasis on performance, and now it’s the turn of the stalwart RX crossover to get a makeover. The 2016 Lexus RX is visually unrecognizable to anyone familiar with the old model, thanks to radical new styling. But it retains its predecessor’s virtues, including a spacious and comfortable cabin, efficient powertrains, and Toyota quality.
Powertrains and Performance
Whether you want performance or fuel economy, the 2016 Lexus RX has you covered. It’s offered in both RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid models, with an available F Sport package for an extra dose of sportiness.
The RX 350 features a 3.5-liter V6 with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It’s coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. This version of the RX will do 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds with front-wheel drive and 7.9 seconds with all-wheel drive. Top speed is limited to 124 mph in either case.
The RX 450h hybrid uses a version of the battle-tested Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system, based around a 3.5-liter V6 with two electric motors alternating between propulsion and generation duties, with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. All-wheel drive models get another electric motor to power the rear axle. Total system output is estimated at 300 hp. Acceleration is unchanged from the non-hybrid version, but top speed is limited to a slightly lower 112 mph.
By offering a hybrid powertrain, Lexus proves that a midsize luxury crossover can be fairly fuel efficient. The RX 450h gets an estimated 30 mpg combined (31 mpg city, 30 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 30 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.* The RX 350 also gets a respectable 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*
For buyers looking for a more engaging drive, Lexus offers the F Sport package. It includes performance upgrades like Adaptive Variable Suspension with Sport+ driving mode, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, sport-tuned suspension, and an active sound generator, plus sportier cosmetic treatment inside and out. F Sport models get more aggressive exterior styling, special 20-inch wheels, and model-specific steering wheels, seats, and gauges.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Lexus RX is a five-door, five-seat midsize luxury crossover. It’s offered in a single trim level, and priced starting at $41,900.**
Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust outlets, LED exterior lighting, heated exterior mirrors, fog lights, Siri Eyes Free voice control (for compatible iPhones), leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel and shift knob, NuLuxe-trimmed seats, 10-way power front seats, 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench with one-touch activation, dual-zone automatic climate control, power tilt and telescoping steering column, steering-wheel audio controls, two USB ports, Bluetooth®, and a Display Audio system with 8.0-inch touchscreen.
In addition, the Luxury Package includes 20-inch wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, LED ambient lighting, semi-aniline leather seating, rear-door sunshades, and upgraded trim. The Navigation Package includes navigation, the Lexus Enform App Suite, Lexus Enform Destinations concierge service, HD Radio™, and an upgraded infotainment interface with Lexus’ Remote Touch Controller.
Also available is the Premium Package, with driver’s seat memory and auto away/return for easier exits, rain-sensing wipers, a rear armrest storage compartment, and different trim. Other options include a rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch screens and wireless headphones, and a towing package.
Design
Probably the biggest changes for the 2016 Lexus RX come in the area of exterior styling. The RX adopts the aggressive, sharp-edged styling theme seen on other recent Lexus models, including the NX crossover, IS sedan, and RC coupe. The sculpting, lower, sleeker roofline, and Lexus “spindle” grille with blade-like LED daytime running lights banish the idea that family cars have to be boring.
The RX shares a platform with the more utilitarian Toyota Highlander, but you wouldn’t know it from sitting in the cabin. Available trim materials include Matte Bamboo, Espresso Walnut, Matte Linear Dark Mocha wood, Striated Black, and Gray Sapele wood with aluminum. There’s also plenty of technology in the form of an onboard infotainment system with Lexus’ Remote Touch Controller, and an available 15-speaker Mark Levinson® audio system.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Lexus RX includes a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and Lexus Safety System+, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, intelligent high beams, and lane-departure alert.
Bottom Line
Beneath its dramatic new exterior, the 2016 Lexus RX is the same competent family crossover it’s always been.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
*Preliminary mileage estimates determined by Lexus. EPA mileage estimates not available at time of publishing. Actual mileage will vary.
**MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $940. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. Dealer price will vary. Does not include accessory options installed by dealer.
Image: Lexus
