LEXUS

Lexus RX 2023: Refreshed and more technological

Lexus presented the long-awaited renovation of one of its largest crossovers, the new Lexus RX 2023. The fifth generation of this interesting Japanese SUV is already a reality and arrives loaded with numerous new features. These are novelties that go far beyond a simple image change and technological improvement.

We are facing a complete renovation. The new RX debuts platform, exterior design, technological equipment and, what is even more relevant, it elevates its commitment to electrification by incorporating an interesting plug-in engine into its mechanical offer.

The truth is, just take a quick look at the images to find out which are the most distinctive features of the new generation of the Japanese SUV. It was built on Lexus' new design philosophy. Starting our tour of the exterior at the front, better grid integration emerges. Multi LED headlights are now more compact and tapered. The size of the air inlets has been enlarged.

The side view brings out the true essence of the RX. We are facing a crossover. The free height of the body in relation to the ground is combined with the shapes adopted by the wheel arches and the roof line. Plastics, although present, do not play a prominent role. Incidentally, we cannot ignore the 21-inch alloy wheels.

Ending the tour of the exterior at the rear, it is worth highlighting the taillights. They are optical groups with LED technology that are physically joined through a line of light, which helps to emphasize the vehicle's sense of width. The new Lexus badge has been integrated into the trunk lid. It is important to remember that, depending on the level of finish, the external appearance will vary slightly. For example, the F Sport ending will bring out the sportier side.

The new RX is built on the GA-K platform. This is the architecture used by other models of the brand, such as the NX and ES. The platform was adapted to the dimensions of the RX. The wheelbase and suspension are specific to this model. The new platform was instrumental in reducing the vehicle's weight and improving the space available in the cabin.

The 2023 Lexus RX measures 4,890mm in length, 1,920mm in width, 1,710mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,850mm.

As for the interior of the new RX, we are surrounded by a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Lexus has devoted numerous resources to enhancing the sense of quality. The front seats have a new design and can be upholstered in synthetic leather. Ambient lighting can be dimmed thanks to a 64-color palette and 14 custom themes.

In the cabin of the renewed RX, up to five adult passengers can travel. Space available for rear seat occupants has been improved. Especially when it comes to legroom. An improvement made possible by the increase in the distance between the axles. In addition, the new E-Latch electronic locking system electronically controls the operation of the doors. Now it's smoother and more practical.

The nerve center of the new RX is a 14-inch touchscreen. A fundamental component for managing the new infotainment system that allows access to numerous online digital services. In addition, it is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also integrates a voice assistant and a navigation system fitted as standard. This touchscreen is combined with a multi-function display instrumentation and a Head-Up Display.

It is possible to maintain certain remote control over the vehicle through Lexus Link. Available functions will vary depending on vehicle mechanics. The application for mobile phones allows, for example, to regulate the climate control and activate the emergency lights.

The list of driver assistance systems is, of course, very extensive. The new RX is equipped with numerous technologies, among the most notable are a 360º camera, an advanced parking system, a pre-collision system with motorcycle detection, an emergency steering assistant, an interactive lane, traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control. All of this is integrated into the Lexus Safety System 3 package.

As for the mechanical part, there are important news. The big brother of the Lexus NX could not be left behind in terms of commitment to electrification. In addition to the self-rechargeable hybrid technology (HEV), the brand includes a plug-in hybrid version (PHEV) in the offer.

The engine line access step is occupied by the new RX 350h. A rechargeable hybrid model that develops an output of 245 hp, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter gasoline engine. The manufacturer highlights its level of efficiency comparable to that of a diesel mechanic.

A step up is the new RX 450h , the new plug-in hybrid powertrain. The first RX PHEV reaches 306 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7 seconds. The propulsion system has an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery whose main purpose is to power a subsequent electric motor that, in addition to making full traction possible, also allows driving in 100% electric mode. Electric range is at least 65 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle.

The top-of-the-line engine is the new RX 500h, a self-rechargeable hybrid with a turbo engine and Direct4 technology that, according to Lexus, changes the rules of the game. The powertrain power is situated at 371 hp, being able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds. This is the first hybrid Lexus with a turbocharger. The front electric motor is situated between the combustion engine and transmission, and has a clutch on each side. At the rear axle there is a second electric motor, which allows for an all-wheel drive configuration. Power delivery is controlled via the Direct4 system. An intelligent system that constantly distributes power and torque between the front and rear axles.

As for its arrival at dealerships, the order book for the new Lexus RX will open later this year. For now, it is unknown what the prices of the renewed Lexus SUV will be. However, we can anticipate that it will land on the market as a 2023 model. Official marketing will begin shortly.

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