Doha: First launched in 1999, the Lexus RX has created the blueprint for luxury crossover utility vehicles and set the tone in the segment ever since. The 1999 Lexus RX 300 was the world’s first luxury crossover, while the 2006 Lexus RX 400h was the world’s first hybrid electric luxury crossover. The 2022 model’s sleek new exterior retains a sporty and powerful feel, while the character line that runs from the front to the rear has been improved, adding an exceptional flow and consistency to the overall appearance that emphasizes Lexus’ new design language.
The Lexus RX also embraces Lexus’ reputation for engaging performance. The engineering team scrutinized every part of the vehicle and has made significant enhancements to the rigidity of the body and suspension system, as well as adding a new shock absorber and brake-control system. The result is a vehicle with outstanding handling, which enables drivers to trace their desired driving line with incredible precision.
The 2022 Lexus RX represents a subtle evolution of previous generations’ dynamic exterior aesthetic, which begins with a new L-patterned grille mesh and a smoother surround that blends more seamlessly into the front bumper. Prominent grille arrangements have been sculpted into the bumper corners, with the fog lights now residing in the lower part of the front bumper. Slender new headlamps add an extra element of sharpness to the frontal appearance. A similar re-think has been applied to the rear, where the fog lights have been integrated more effectively into the valance area, and the functions of the combination lamps are arranged in a strict horizontal divide, increasing the sense of vehicle width.
The luxury crossover receives several changes designed to enhance driving dynamics across the lineup. Both the front and rear stabilizer bars are now hollow to reduce weight, yet their thicker diameters and reinforced bushings help minimize body roll and improve steering response.
Responsiveness is further refined by the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which offers a range of up to 650 instantaneous compression and damping adjustments to more precisely manage overall handling, stability, and control, together with the newly added Active Corner Assist (ACA), which helps prevent understeering on turns by applying more braking force to the inner wheel.
The 12.3-inch high-resolution, split-screen Lexus Multimedia System touchscreen has been moved nearly 5.5 inches closer to the driver and offers control of both audio and climate systems. The touchscreen also includes a rearview camera to assist the driver in reversing. Furthermore, the new Lexus RX’s advanced smartphone integration offers access to in-car connected technology applications from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, together with a designated phone storage area and six USB ports to ensure occupants always remain connected on the go.
Additionally, the 2022 Lexus RX adds the convenience of a hands-free power backdoor, which is activated via a foot-operated system that can be used when the user’s hands or arms are full, such as when carrying goods. Placing or kicking up a foot toward a sensor beneath the rear bumper cover opens or closes the electrically actuated backdoor.
The Lexus RX is available with a choice of two powertrains. The RX 350 model comes with a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine, which produces 296 hp and 370 Nm of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the RX 450h variant is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine and two electric motors and produces a combined system output of 308 hp. The class-leading hybrid electric model enables customers to contribute to a sustainable future while enjoying increased driving satisfaction and acceleration smoothness, particularly when starting off.
As with any Lexus vehicle, safety is a top priority for the new RX. Drivers can enjoy complete peace of mind thanks to the Lexus Safety System+, an advanced safety technology package that includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pedestrian detection during daylight and certain low-light conditions, as well as daytime cyclist detection, all-speed range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Tracing Alert (LTA), and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).
