Flowing Turn Signals

The Lexus RX SUV, which underwent a full model change in North America first, has finally been released in Japan.

The new model measures 4,890mm in length, 1,895mm in width, and 1,710mm in height, making it 120mm longer, 10mm wider, and 20mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also been extended by 50mm to 2,790mm. This creates more space, particularly in the rear seats.

The redesigned exterior features a sharp, three-dimensional design reminiscent of the NX. The front spindle grille's higher mounting position aims to clearly define a sharp upper body like a sports car and a massive lower body typical of an SUV. Furthermore, the bottom of the rear quarter pillar is blacked out, while the chrome surrounding the side windows extends to the rear, creating a visual effect of a floating roof.

The front headlights use single or triple LED units. Below the main lamps are arrow-shaped LED clearance lamps that also function as turn signals, a common feature in current Lexus models.

These turn signals employ sequential turn signal technology, where the lights flash sequentially in the direction of the turn, rather than the entire lamp illuminating at once. While this type of turn signal was only recently officially approved in Japan, Lexus explains that it visually indicates the turning direction, thereby drawing more attention from surrounding traffic.

The L-shaped LED rear combination lamps now extend to the body sides. On the "version L" and "F SPORT" models, the rear turn signals are also sequential, similar to the front.

The standard model comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels, while the "version L" and "F SPORT" models feature 20-inch wheels. Selectable color trims, allowing for the removal of the inner resin garnish, are also available for all models. The "version L" also offers noise-reduction type wheels with a hollow structure to suppress tire noise.

Hybrid and Turbo Powertrains

There are two powertrain options for the Japanese market. The "RX200t" is equipped with a 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo engine, previously used in the NX200t and IS200t. It produces a maximum output of 175kW (238ps) and a maximum torque of 350Nm (35.7kgm) between 1,650-4,000rpm. This is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, achieving fuel economy of 11.8 km/L for the FF model and 11.4 km/L for the AWD model under the JC08 mode.

The all-wheel-drive model of the RX200t features "Dynamic Control AWD," which automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles from a 100:0 to 50:50 ratio. It operates as an efficient FF vehicle under low load conditions and enhances stability with AWD on slippery surfaces.

The "RX450h" utilizes a hybrid system that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing a maximum output of 193kW (262ps) and 335Nm (34.2kgm) of torque, with a motor generating 123kW (167ps) and 335Nm (34.2kgm) of torque. The total maximum output reaches 230kW (313ps). The transmission is the THS II, integrated with the hybrid system.

While the engine is based on the previous generation, refinements to key components, along with technologies such as D-4S (which optimally uses both direct injection and port injection) and Dual VVT-iW (for optimizing valve timing), have improved fuel efficiency to 18.2-18.8 km/L. Furthermore, the AWD model of the RX450h adopts "E-Four" for the first time in a Lexus model, driving the rear wheels with a dedicated rear motor without a propeller shaft.

Similar to the previous generation, both powertrains are available in the standard model, as well as the luxurious "version L" and sporty "F SPORT" trims. The "F SPORT" features a dedicated mesh front grille with an "F" pattern towards the bottom, exclusive 20-inch F SPORT alloy wheels, and black painted mirrors. Additionally, the RX450h "F SPORT" is equipped with a sound generator that enhances engine sound within the cabin and active stabilizers that use electric control to suppress body roll.

Lexus Safety System + Packages Four Safety Features

The "Lexus Safety System +," which packages four key safety features utilizing the latest technology, is standard on all models. This includes "Pre-Collision Safety" with pedestrian detection using millimeter-wave radar and a monocular camera, "Lane Keeping Assist" that supports steering to keep the vehicle within its lane, "Automatic High Beam" that automatically switches between high and low beams to ensure visibility at night, and "All-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control" that maintains a set speed or distance from the vehicle ahead, down to a complete stop.

Additionally, features such as "Blind Spot Monitor," which warns of other vehicles in the rear side blind spots with a warning light, "Intelligent Clearance Sonar" to prevent accidents from misapplication of accelerator and brake or to minimize damage in collisions, and "Rear Cross Traffic Alert" which warns of approaching vehicles when reversing, along with "Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake" which adds automatic braking to the latter, are also available.

Also available is "ITS Connect," which was recently adopted in the Toyota Crown. This system alerts the driver to hazards that are difficult for the vehicle's sensors to detect or easily overlooked by the driver, based on road sensors and information from other vehicles. Functions include warnings when the driver releases the brake while waiting to turn right at an intersection, despite oncoming traffic or pedestrians, and smooth acceleration/deceleration communication with preceding vehicles when cruise control is active.

In addition, numerous comfort features are available, such as a hands-free power back door that automatically opens the hatch by simply holding your hand over the LEXUS emblem on the rear hatch, rear power seats, and an 11.6-inch high-definition rear entertainment system.

The price of the new RX ranges from 4,950,000 to 6,210,000 yen for the "RX200t," and from 6,025,000 to 7,425,000 yen for the "RX450h."