A More Powerful Hybrid Unit

The Lexus RX, a stylish SUV, has been popular in North America. In Japan, this model was known as the Toyota Harrier, but from this third generation onwards, it will be sold in Japan as the "Lexus RX."

LEXUS RX450h

The models announced this time are the "RX350," equipped with a 3.5-liter V6, and the "RX450h," which features a hybrid system.
The RX350 is powered by a 2GR-FE engine producing a maximum output of 275 ps at 6200 rpm and a maximum torque of 35.5 kgm at 4700 rpm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The RX450h replaces the current model's 3.3-liter V6 plus motor with the 3.5-liter V6 plus motor used in the "Lexus GS450h." The 4WD system, which drives the front wheels with the engine and the rear wheels with the motor, is the same as the current model. The combined maximum output of the engine and motor is 295 ps, and a CVT is used for the transmission.
Scheduled for Release in Japan from January 2009

The exterior largely retains the existing concept, but the dimensions have increased to 4770mm in length, 1885mm in width, and 1690mm in height, making it slightly larger than the current model. The wheelbase has also been extended by 25mm to 2740mm. The form is composed of smooth curves, creating a more premium SUV.

Furthermore, the adoption of new man-machine interfaces, such as the "Multi-Information Display" using white organic EL and the "Remote Touch" that allows operation of the navigation screen from the center console, along with an interior with improved quality, suggest a further evolution as a premium SUV.

The market launch is scheduled for January 2009 for the RX350 and spring 2009 for the RX450h. Releases will begin in Japan, followed by global rollout.

The "Lexus RX," the successor to the "Toyota Harrier," has been popular as a pioneer in the premium SUV segment. In Japan's SUV market, which is currently vibrant with imports, the RX is sure to attract attention as the first SUV under the Lexus brand.

LEXUS RX350

BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer a new value proposition, distinct from established luxury cars from America and Germany, by leveraging Toyota's advanced technology, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.

Upon the introduction of the "LS400" (domestic name: Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic name: Camry) to the American market in September of that year, the LS400 quickly earned the title of Best Import Car by February 1990. Lexus's reputation continued to grow, and with an expanding lineup, it solidified its position as a luxury car brand.

Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its entry into the Japanese market in May of the same year. In August 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup consisted of the "GS" (successor to the Toyota Aristo), "SC" (Toyota Soarer), and "IS" (Toyota Altezza), lacking a flagship model. However, the introduction of the long-awaited new "LS" in September 2006, followed by its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, met the expectations of luxury sedan buyers.


Meanwhile, Lexus has been focusing on building a sports image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008 with the development-stage sports coupe "LF-A." Further growth in popularity is anticipated.