An Understated Aura

The Lexus RX, its first SUV, was born as the "Harrier," a model that took the best of SUVs, sedans, and sports cars, and has evolved since. The CM character right after its debut was a lion-man, with a subtle Versace vibe....

However, the RX, now elevated to Lexus, has an understated aura. Even in today's climate where SUVs face some scrutiny, it has a character that seems to be forgiven, suggesting good taste and an acceptable choice. This skillful character setting is truly impressive. Moreover, this RX seems poised to become Lexus's first gender-neutral model in its lineup.

Lexus values social hierarchy, or rather, prestige. The owner's style often appears to be suits or golf wear, which has met demand accordingly.

However, the RX distances itself somewhat from prestige, feeling more liberated as a car. While the edgy chrome window frames and the sloped rear design of the coupe-like hatch fall within the Lexus design language,
they evoke a sense of the individual rather than society (or perhaps a company?) in the background.

Women enjoy driving practical and seemingly large vehicles like minivans and SUVs, and they know that they won't be treated unfairly on the road, even if they're a bit hesitant.

Drive as You Please at a Comfortable Pace

That said, for them, especially those enjoying urban life, a sense of exhaustion or a forced vulgarity is out of the question. Hence, German-made SUVs have been one of the answers, but isn't it highly possible that the RX could replace them?

Of course, it comes with the typical Lexus service, and the RX possesses a cleanliness and freshness that German brands lack. While German-made vehicles are designed as cars, the RX is a Lexus before it is a car; it seems to be a vessel for carrying style. In a way, it doesn't smell like a car.

What's more, the hybrid version, the RX450h, is set to debut in April. It's even cleaner, more intelligent, and represents a new mode. Women are unlikely to overlook a car with such a complete set of attributes. As we expand our imagination, the ten available exterior colors seem to feature many gentle, intermediate tones, and the design feels like it would look quite striking in the parking lots of Futako Tamagawa's Takashimaya or Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens.

Despite its sharp design, it's impressive that the interior space isn't sacrificed like some sporty German-made SUVs. You can pack plenty of luggage, and you don't have to stoop under a low roofline every time you get in or out. The numerous character lines are somewhat complex, resembling fine porcelain that carefully protects the owner's privacy.

The RX350 does not have paddle shifters. I initially wondered if this would be insufficient for maneuvering a somewhat top-heavy 2-ton body freely within city traffic. However, by the end of the test drive, those doubts had vanished, and I was convinced that paddles were unnecessary. This is because I could drive as I pleased at a comfortable pace, without needing to focus intensely on driving or 'conversing' with the car.

The coordination between the transmission, suspension, and tires was smoother than I had imagined, as if the car were gently caring for its passengers. The fact that the best results can always be achieved with minimal input will undoubtedly appeal greatly to women. We eagerly await the release of the RX450h. The RX will bring a significant breadth to the image of a Lexus owner.

Lexus RX350

Body | Length 4770 x Width 1885 x Height 1690mm
Engine | V6 DOHC
Max Output | 206kW [280ps] / 6200rpm
Max Torque | 348Nm [35.5kgm] / 4700rpm
Drivetrain | 4WD
Transmission | Electronically Controlled 6-Speed AT
Price | 5.65 million yen (version L Air suspension)

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 new value, distinct from American and German luxury cars, through Toyota's renowned technological prowess, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.

In September of the same year, the "LS400" (domestic name: Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic name: Camry) were introduced to the American market. By February of the following year, 1990, the LS400 had already won Best Import Car. Subsequently, Lexus's reputation continued to grow, and with the expansion of its 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 of the following year, 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. At the start, 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 new LS in September 2006 and its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, it met the expectations of the luxury sedan market.

Meanwhile, Lexus has been focusing on acquiring a sporty image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the developing sports coupe "LF-A" in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008, leading to expectations of further popularity growth.