By Malusi Msomi

The Lexus RX, a stalwart in the Japanese manufacturer’s lineup, has consistently held the title of their best-selling car. With over 3.5 million models sold since its inception, the RX has become a symbol of luxury, performance, and innovation. Our recent visit to Cape Town offered us the opportunity to acquaint ourselves with the fifth generation of this iconic luxury SUV.

Elegant exterior

The exterior design of the new Lexus RX embraces the ‘Next Chapter’ design philosophy, featuring updated headlights, a distinctive spindle grille, and a wide rear taillight spanning the car’s width. Available in standard and F-Sport models, these design elements contribute to a commanding presence on the road. All models come equipped with standard 21-inch wheels, adding to the SUV’s overall allure.

New interior

Inside the cabin, the ‘Tazuna’ cockpit has been meticulously designed to minimize distractions while offering practical features. A 14-inch touch display, customizable ambient lighting, premium sound systems, and a lowered loading height are just a few of the thoughtful additions. Premium materials adorn the interior, creating an inviting space. A panoramic sunroof comes standard in all models, enhancing the overall ambiance. All models also come standard with a Mark Levinson sound system, which has to be one of the best in the business.

Safety

Safety gets an upgrade in the third-generation Lexus Safety System+, featuring improved accident detection, motorcycle recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Higher-tier models add Lane Change Assistance and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, while a new Pre-Collision System with Active Steering Assist enhances safety.

Engines line-up

The RX line-up boasts diverse powertrains, including petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. It includes four models: the entry-level RX 350 with a 2.4-liter petrol engine, the RX 350h with hybrid tech, and the top-tier RX 500h with turbo-charged hybrid tech, offering varying levels of power and performance. In terms of performance, the RX350 F Sport has a sporty character compared to the RX350h, which is geared more towards fuel efficiency thanks to its hybrid system. Both models benefit from great ride quality.

The RX 500h and RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is a different story all together. We spent a short time in both of these derivatives but very much enjoyed piloting these two beauts on the scenic roads of Cape Town. The RX 500h boasts turbocharged hybrid technology with a 2.4-liter turbo engine and paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, resulting in an impressive total output of 273 kW. There is peculiar roar that fills the cabin during hard acceleration, but unfortunately the sound is being played through the speakers. The RX 450h+ comes with a 4-cylinder 2.5-liter petrol engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system: an 18.1 kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which produces a total output of 223 kW, providing a competitive 65 km of pure electric driving range.

Priced from R1.5 million, the RX stands as a compelling proposition in the luxury SUV arena. It’s a tasteful blend of premium craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, and true to Lexus tradition, there are no options like it’s German and British counterparts.

Pricing

Lexus RX350 R1,452,600

Lexus RX 350h R1,877,600

Lexus RX 350h F Sport R1,574,100

Lexus RX 450h+ R1,629,300

Lexus RX 500h F Sport R1,723,100

The Lexus RX is sold with the Lexus Warranty Experience featuring an industry leading seven years/105 000km and for the Hybrid models, a leading eight years/195 000 km battery warranty.