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Lexus RX
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The Lexus RX is a luxury crossover SUV sold by Lexus since 1998, the RX is designed to combine the functional characteristics of an SUV with ride and features of a luxury sedan. The RX series has comprised multiple V6 and hybrid-powered models (such as the RX 300, RX 330, RX 350, RX 400h, and RX 450h), in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions. Three generations of the Lexus RX have been produced to date, in compact or mid-size form.
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Encyclopedia
The Lexus RX is a luxury crossover SUV sold by Lexus since 1998, the RX is designed to combine the functional characteristics of an SUV with ride and features of a luxury sedan. The RX series has comprised multiple V6 and hybrid-powered models (such as the RX 300, RX 330, RX 350, RX 400h, and RX 450h), in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions. Three generations of the Lexus RX have been produced to date, in compact or mid-size form. The Lexus RX has been the best selling crossover luxury SUV on the US market since its introduction and has ranked as the best-selling luxury vehicle in the United States.
The Lexus RX first premiered in 1997 as a Lexus concept, followed by the debut of the production RX 300 model at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. In 2003, the second generation RX debuted in the U.S., and the redesigned RX 330 went on sale shortly after. In 2006, the RX line added the world's first luxury hybrid, the RX 400h. The redesigned third generation RX went on sale in 2009.
Equivalent versions of the first and second generation models were sold in Japan under the Toyota Harrier nameplate until 2008.
As the earliest crossover luxury SUV on the market, the Lexus RX has inspired similar competitors from rival marques. Its commercial success as Lexus' best-selling model has been attributed to the strong reliability reputation of Lexus and the RX line. The RX is also the only Lexus vehicle to be produced outside of Japan, with North American market RX 350s being made at the Cambridge plant in Canada. The RX designation, signifies its place in the Lexus lineup next to the larger body-on-frame GX and LX SUVs.
First generation (1999-2003)
In February 1997, Lexus debuted the "Sport Luxury Vehicle" (SLV) concept, a prototype crossover SUV, at the Chicago Auto Show. This concept, which appeared close to production, combined the characteristics of an SUV, wagon, and sedan. In Japan, the SLV concept appeared in first-generation Toyota Harrier form (codename SXU10 and MCU10 for the front-wheel drive models, and SXU15 and MCU15 for the all-wheel drive models) in December 1997. Two engines were available, the 2.2 L 5S-FE I4 which produced JIS (102 kW) and 191 Nm (140 ft·lbf), and the 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 which produced JIS (161 kW) and 304 Nm (224 ft·lbf). Both engines could be specified with either front or all-wheel drivetrains. All models came with an automatic transmission. The first RX was partly based on the RAV4 platform.
In Japan, the first-generation Harrier was a sales success, and many went to other right hand drive markets in Asia as grey imports. The Harrier continued largely unchanged until November 2000, when the 2.2 L 5S-FE engine was replaced by the 2.4 L 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder engine, producing JIS (117 kW) and 221 Nm (163 ft·lbf). As before, the engine was offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The change in engine also meant a change in model code, which was now ACU10 for the front-wheel drive version and ACU15 for the all-wheel drive version. A small facelift was also performed on the Harrier.
The Lexus RX 300 made its sales debut in America in March 1998 as a 1999 model following its premiere at the 1998 North American International Auto Show, it was powered by an LEV certified 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6 mated to a 4-speed automatic in either front or all-wheel drive variations. The RX 300 interior included leather seats, wood trim, a multi-level center console with storage drawers, and individual reclining and sliding rear seats. A shift lever mounted near the instrument panel freed up floor space for additional storage. On the exterior, the RX featured heated mirrors, automatic light-sensing headlights, a low step-in entry height, and an overall drag coefficient of 0.36 Cd. A 240-watt, 7-speaker Pioneer sound system was standard, while a premium Nakamichi customized sound system was available as an option. The Lexus RX was an immediate hit, and sold over 370,000 units in five years.
In 2001, the RX gained a number of options, including a DVD-based automotive navigation system, a wood and leather trimmed steering wheel, and tow hitch receiver. Cabin equipment options were grouped into new package offerings. For safety, Vehicle Stability Control became standard. Exclusively for 2002, Lexus introduced the limited RX 300 "Coach Edition," featuring perforated leather trim in the interior, honeycomb grille, Coach badging on the exterior and interior, and a set of Coach luggage. A burgundy exterior color, Venetian Red Pearl, was offered on 1999-2000 year models.
In 2000, the Lexus RX went on sale in Europe and Asia for the first time. Distinguishing features for these versions of the RX 300 included a different rear light cluster and larger wheels. The front-wheel drive version was not offered in either Europe or Asia.
The IIHS rated the RX 300 Good overall in their frontal offset crash test.
Second generation (2004-2009)
In January 2003, Lexus unveiled the second-generation model of its best-selling luxury crossover SUV at the North American International Auto Show, featuring a newer, sleeker body style with a 0.35 Cd figure and new LED tailamps.. The basic chassis is shared with the Highlander SUV.
In February 2003, the second generation Toyota Harrier (codename ACU30 and MCU30 for the front-wheel drive models, and ACU35 and MCU35 for the all-wheel drive models) was launched in Japan. Mechanical specification was largely similar to the first-generation Harrier, with the same engine and drivetrain combinations (2.4 L and 3.0 L V6 with or without all-wheel drive). The main difference was a new 5-speed automatic transmission with +/- shift replacing the 4-speed item in the 3.0 L V6, and the availability of "AIRS" air-suspension on the 3.0 L V6 models. Toyota added a new optional safety feature known as the Pre-Collision System.
The second generation Lexus RX was launched for European and Asian markets in early 2003 (including Singapore, where it succeeded the previously sold Harrier, South Korea, and Taiwan), it continued to be called the RX 300 and was made in Japan. Mechanical specifications were more or less identical to the 3.0 L V6 Harrier, with only the all-wheel drive version available, once again the air-suspension could be specified.
The second generation RX, called the RX 330 for the North American and Middle Eastern markets, began sales in March 2003. All North American models were initially built in Japan until September 2003 when production of the RX 330 began at Toyota's TMMC plant in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
The RX 330 was powered by a 3.3-liter ULEV certified 3MZ-FE V6, producing SAE and (238 ft·lbf) mated to a 5-speed automatic and was available in either front or all-wheel drive. Height-adjustable air-suspension was again an option on the all-wheel drive models (akin to "AIRS" system). In 2006, with changes in SAE ratings engine output dropped to 223 hp and the engine now met ULEV-II emissions.
The second-generation RX interior featured genuine Golden Bird's Eye Maple or Walnut wood trim, a sliding multi-level center storage console, dual-zone climate control, tilt steering column, and eight airbags including a driver's knee airbag. Available options included a 210-watt, 11-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, a DVD-based navigation system with backup camera, DVD Rear Seat Entertainment System (RSES) with wireless headphones, a panoramic three panel moonroof, a newly developed Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) which can swivel the headlights around corners, a Dynamic Laser Cruise Control system, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. Although a power rear door was optional in the beginning, it was made standard in 2005.
In 2005, Lexus introduced the RX 330 "Thundercloud Edition" for the U.S. market, featuring a horizontal-slatted grille, aluminum alloy wheels, and other select options as standard.
Sales of the second generation Lexus RX continued the success of the RX series for Lexus. In 2006, the RX series sold over 108,000 units, making the Lexus RX the best-selling luxury vehicle in the United States.
RX 350
For 2007, the RX received a mid-cycle refresh consisting of a new 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 replacing the 3.3-liter 3MZ-FE V6 engine on non-hybrid models, updating the vehicle's name from RX 330 to RX 350. The RX 350 also featured an updated, Lexus Generation V DVD navigation system with improved graphics, voice controlled destination inputs, and a new feature called "bread crumbs." Bread crumbs will enable drivers to retrace their steps. The new navigation system also featured voice dial systems and the ability to enter destinations by voice address while driving.
For the 2008 model year, the RX received a revised grille, chrome door handles, and available new seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels. A liquid graphite finish, and Brandy Wine Mica or Desert Sage Metallic were new exterior choices. Black Bird's Eye Maple wood with gray interior was a new interior option. For the 2009 model year, there is a new Pebble Beach Edition, limited to 6000 units. Special Pebble Beach editions have also been available on the SC 430, ES 350, and LS 600h L.
RX 400h
- See also Lexus RX Hybrid
The world's first hybrid luxury SUV the RX 400h premiered at the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and went on sale in North America in April 2005, and the equivalent Harrier Hybrid went on sale in Japan on March 2005. The debut model was first offered in all-wheel drive, and in 2006 a front-wheel drive version was added. Europe and Asia also received the Hybrid RX in 2006.
The Lexus RX 400h features Lexus Hybrid Drive, which combines a 3.3L V6 engine and electric motors. This results in performance akin to a V8 with improved fuel economy and lower emissions, passing power at lower and mid engine RPM's is noticeably improved due to the electric motor. The RX 400h features styling differences with the conventional gas-powered RX, including metal interior trim in place of wood, round foglights, and a different grille. For 2007, additional hybrid signifiers were added to the rear doors and aft emblems to further distinguish the hybrid models. A combination wood trim package was also added.
The RX 400h is CARB SULEV certified in California and EPA Tier II Bin 3 rated in other states.
Safety
All RX models came standard with dual front airbags, front row torso side airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag, Vehicle Stability Control and a tire-pressure monitoring system standard. An Advanced Front Lighting System with HID headlamps and a backup camera (w/navigation system) were optional.
The Lexus RX received a Good overall rating in the IIHS frontal crash test.
NHTSA 2004 Lexus RX crash test results:
Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:
Third generation (2010-present)
At the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show the LF-Xh concept was unveiled hinting at the styling direction of the next RX, later in January 2009, the redesigned third generation RX premiered at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show, appearing as the standard RX 350 and hybrid RX 450h. The Japanese market Toyota Harrier has been discontinued. New exterior styling includes a rear spoiler that hides the rear window wiper and radio antenna creating a less cluttered appearance in keeping with L-finesse. The drag coefficient on the latest RX 350 has been reduced to 0.33 Cd..
The 2010 RX 350 features a revised 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6 engine producing , which remains ULEV-II certified and now uses a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. The new transmission can lock-up the torque converter from 2nd through 6th gears to improve fuel economy. Both non-hybrid and hybrid models continue to be offered in either front or all-wheel drive configurations.. By dropping the center locking differential a new Active Torque Control all-wheel drive system can send anywhere from 50% or up to 100% power to the front wheels for reduced drivetrain associated efficiency losses which in turn increases fuel efficiency. An electric power steering system (EPS) replaces the previous belt-driven hydraulic pump. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved at 18/25 city/highway for the FWD RX 350 and 18/24 for the AWD RX 350. A double-wishbone rear suspension setup replaces the previous MacPherson strut design for improved handling and greater cargo space, while an optional Sports Package adds a performance-tuned suspension. Exterior dimensions are increased, and cargo room is increased by five percent.
Major standard features include SmartAccess, a keyless entry and start system, electrochromic heated side mirrors, UV reducing exterior glass, Bluetooth, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power 10-way driver and passenger seats, sliding and reclining rear seats and a power rear hatch. Optional features include, 19" wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, power front seat cushion extender, perforated and semi-aniline leather seats, a smog sensor for the HVAC system, power folding side view mirrors, and a new hard disk drive HDD-based navigation system which no longer features a touchscreen, instead replacing it with a Remote Touch controller similar in function to a mouse. The navigation's 8-inch screen uses an OLED display instead of a liquid crystal display (LCD). With XM subscription the navigation adds real-time NavTraffic and NavWeather updates. The third generation RX also adds VoiceBox Technologies conversational speech voice recognition system, the first of its kind in the U.S., which can recognize general speech commands. Other options include a heads-up display (HUD) which uses high-intensity LEDs displaying white figures on the windshield allowing it to be read in direct sunlight. XM Satellite Radio, a 15-speaker 330 Watt Mark Levinson Surround Sound audio system and a dual-screen Rear Seat Entertainment System (RSES) are also offered.
American RX 350 sales began in February 2009 as a 2010 model. The front-wheel drive RX 350 starts at $36,800 while the all-wheel driver version starts at $38,200. Sales debuts for Europe (RX 450h), Japan (RX 350 and RX 450h), Australia (RX 350 and RX 450h), and other countries are expected in 2009.
RX 450h
- See also Lexus RX Hybrid
The Lexus RX 450h's 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine now running on the Atkinson cycle produces 245 hp, by incorporating a more powerful inverter and electric motors total horsepower reaches 295 hp.
Two additional systems are added to the RX 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, an exhaust-heat recovery system to reduce engine warm-up periods (optimizing engine start-stop times), and a water-cooled Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system to reduce engine pumping losses. A new ECO mode helps the driver improve fuel economy by controlling air conditioning and throttle inputs. These designs together help improves fuel economy in the RX 450h which now returns an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined rating of 32/28/30 mpg in FWD trim and 30/28/ mpg in AWD form. The RX 450h's emissions meet SULEV standards in California and states that adopted CARB regulations or EPA Tier II-Bin 3 in other states.
Visually, the RX 450h receives a unique grille with modified front fascia, blue-tinted headlamps and tail lamps,, hybrid badging, different wheels, and optional LED headlights.
Safety
The RX 350/450h comes standard with twin-chamber front airbags, side torso airbags for the front row, side curtain airbags for front and rear rows, and knee airbags for the front row. Active headrests become standard to help reduce whiplash injuries. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill Assist Control which helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards on inclines is standard while a more advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is optional.
The Advanced Front Lighting System (AFS) remains optional, while a new bi-Xenon optional Intelligent highbeam feature is added, this system can dim the high-beams automatically whenever traffic is detected. Other new optional features include a Pre-Collision System (PCS) and a head-up display (HUD) which helps the driver keep attention on the road ahead by displaying navigation, speed, and audio information on the windshield. The optional navigation system offers a backup camera and a Wide-View Side Monitor which utilizes a camera on the side view mirror to help eliminate blind spots on the passenger side at low speeds. However this system does not include the 180° wide-angle front grille mounted camera found in the LX 570. To further help improve visibility a water-repellent glass is used on the front doors.
Awards
- J.D. Power and Associates named the Lexus RX the best entry luxury SUV in its 2001, 2004, and 2005 Initial Quality Surveys.
- Winner Australia's Best Luxury Four Wheel Drive in 2004 - Lexus RX 330.
- R. L. Polk & Co., automotive marketing research firm, gave the RX series its Polk Automotive Loyalty Award in the Midsize Sport Utility Vehicle category in 2005 for customer retention. The RX series received this award again for 2006.
- The Lexus RX was named most appealing luxury SUV by J.D. Power and Associates in 1998 and 2004.
- Intellichoice named the Lexus RX the Best Overall Value in the SUV market over $30,000 in 2003, 2004, and 2005.
- Australia's Best Cars competition named the Lexus RX as Australia's Best Luxury Four Wheel Drive in 2003 and 2004.
- Kelley Blue Book gave the RX its Best to Hold Value Award in 1999, 2000, and 2001.
- Money magazine named the RX 300 the Best Deal on the Road in the SUV class in 1999.
- The RX 300 was Motor Trend magazine's Sport/Utility of the Year for 1999.
- The Lexus RX came 3rd in the Top Gear Satisfaction Survey 2005, beaten only by the Lexus IS, and the Honda S2000.
Sales figures
Sales data in United States for the Lexus RX are as follows, sourced from manufacturer yearly data:
| Generation (chassis code) | Model(s) | Calendar year | Total sales (U.S.) |
|---|
| MCU10/MCU15 | | RX 300 | 2000 | 89,864 | | 2001 | 77,426 | | 2002 | 72,963 | | 2003 | 92,366 | | MCU33/MCU38 | RX 330 | 2004 | 106,531 | | MCU33/MCU38/MHU33 | RX 330/400h | 2005 | 108,775 | | MCU33/MCU38/MHU33/MHU38 | 2006 | 108,348 | | GSU30/GSU35/MHU33/MHU38 | | RX 350/400h | 2007 | 103,340 | | 2008 | 84,181 |
Gallery
External links
- official U.S. site
- official Europe site
- RX safety features site
- official Australia site
- official Canada site
- official Taiwan site
- Lexus RX 400h - external links for the RX hybrid
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