The Driver is Always the Star

The first thing I felt upon gripping the steering wheel of the Lexus RX350, Lexus's first SUV, was a sense of serenity. The grade was the
"Version L Air suspension," equipped with active control AWD, meaning four-wheel drive.

The V6 3.5-liter engine hummed quietly, and with the smooth 6-speed automatic transmission and generally soft air suspension, even pressing the accelerator deeply only resulted in a smooth increase in speed. Even with the nearly 2-ton body accelerating fully, there was no adrenaline rush.
It was less like a symphony orchestra and more like the volume of a string trio being slightly increased.

Even when crossing a series of road joints, the tactile feel of the steering wheel remained unchanged, and when making a somewhat aggressive lane change for merging, the suspension was as accommodating as a large, classic leather sofa. The cabin
felt as if silent chamber music was constantly playing, and I truly realized, "This is a Lexus."

The difference from the previous generation, known as the Harrier in Japan, is a more understated approach—luxurious yet discreet.
This understatement is a design language that Audi favored before adopting the single-frame grille, always with the premise of being "luxurious, but..."


While the bold cockpit design and the distinctive exterior with its sharp lines might momentarily dazzle, there's nothing complicated once you start driving. Everything is where it should be, and the driver is truly the star.
It reminded me of a traditional Japanese inn.

Luxury Born from Japanese Hospitality

Cool, design-conscious hotels are wonderful in their own way. However, for example, at the Nice, Hai Hotel,
the "up&down" room had the toilet on a step raised by one level near the window, with only a silk curtain as a partition.
And in the "Wow!" room at The Standard, LA, a giant foot-shaped object (a chair named UP7 by Gaetano Pesce) dominated the bathroom. These are special spaces promising a unique stay, but they are naturally inconvenient and unsettling.

The reason I associate Lexus with a Japanese inn is the classic yet clear comfort and the sense of understated service that is guaranteed.
Lexus's keywords are "excitement" and "serenity," but I felt that these two words
are not on the same level; rather, "serenity" is prioritized for the sake of "excitement." I felt this while driving the RX350.
Like a small, intimate ryokan nestled in the mountains of Yugawara, the RX also exudes a good sense of distance from urban life, neither too close nor too far.

The touch of the semi-aniline leather, used extensively in the interior, is made from finely selected hides and has a soft texture achieved through repeated, time-consuming buffing.
This perfectly complements the RX350's understated character and evokes the sense of 'Futon' that is now globally accepted.


In an era where downsizing is being forced upon automotive luxury due to the global economic downturn, Lexus's brand of luxury, supported by its identity as a nation of hospitality, strikes a good balance—not excessive, yet not demanding any compromises.

A 3.5-Liter V6 Engine That Always Has Power to Spare

The 3.5-liter V6 engine is the type that delivers over 90% of its maximum torque from a very low rpm of 2,300. While it produces a maximum output of 280 PS (206 kW) at 6,200 rpm and a maximum torque of 35.5 kgf-m (348 Nm) at 4,700 rpm, it provides sufficient acceleration without needing to rev that high, always leaving a sense of reserve. In the RX350, this engine, known as 2RG-FE, plays a supporting role; it doesn't assert sharp responsiveness, crisp acceleration, or bold, unyielding torque. The focus is on styling and interior quality, which aligns with Lexus's standards (with the exception of the IS-F).

Traditionally, Lexus vehicles have a high scuttle and beltline, making the driver feel enclosed. However, the RX350 offers a surprisingly good view and a sense of openness. The stress-free driving ease and user-friendliness further enhance the car's appeal.

The ride quality, akin to an incredibly thick, ultra-luxurious cushion, can feel slightly sluggish during high-speed driving. However, rather than a drawback, I, at 47 years old, perceive this as a characteristic. This car might actually be Lexus's first gender-neutral model. I'll discuss my premonition that the number of female Lexus users is increasing in the next installment.

Lexus Information Desk0800-500-5577
http://lexus.jp


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 American and German luxury cars, leveraging Toyota's advanced technology, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.

In September of the same year, the "LS400" (domestic model Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic model Camry) were introduced to the American market. By February of the following year, 1990, the LS400 had already won Best Import Car. 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 business development in Japan in May of that year. In August 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup lacked the flagship "LS," consisting of the "GS" (successor to Toyota's Aristo), "SC" (Toyota's Soarer), and "IS" (successor to Toyota's Altezza). However, with the introduction of the long-awaited new LS in September 2006 and its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, Lexus met the expectations of luxury sedan buyers.

Meanwhile, Lexus has been focusing on building a sporty image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008 with the developing sports coupe "LF-A," further enhancing its appeal and anticipating increased popularity.