Bold & Economical Luxury: 2016 Lexus RX 450h SUV
Lexus recently unveiled the all-new 2016 RX 450h SUV. The 2016 RX family is completely new, with a luxurious interior to match its fresh, new, chiseled body style. The large dose of Lexus brand DNA that’s been artfully incorporated into the details can not only be seen, but also felt. The new fourth-generation RX also boasts exceptional on-road performance and safety technologies that include the innovative Lexus Safety System+.
The RX 450h features all-new sheet metal that makes a powerful visual statement at first glance. A completely new front end is highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Together with the all-new LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, the RX has a more sophisticated and advanced look. Muscular front fender flares add to the vehicle’s sporty attitude.
When seen from the side, the sharp character line that runs from the front fenders to the rear end, together with a flowing roofline, give the RX 450h a dynamic profile. All of this helps make the vehicle sure-footed at high speed and reduces wind noise. A truly distinctive styling cue is the blacked-out C-pillars, which provide the illusion of a floating roofline never before seen on a Lexus product. Also, newly available 20-inch aluminum wheels with larger tires improve the vehicle stance and proportions and replace the current model’s 19-inch options. These 20-inch wheels can also be customized with body color-matching inserts to emphasize the driver’s individuality.
Additionally, the new RX 450h’s rear appearance has been sharpened, exuding a sense of chiseled, rock-solid stability with the design highlighted by LED L-shaped taillights that wrap around the sides of the vehicle, creating a wider, more authoritative presence when illuminated. When lit, a brilliant glow spans laterally from the body to the back door, a Lexus-first. Integrated dual exhaust pipes have been added to the gas model for a more premium appearance.
Power for the Lexus hybrid is generated by a completely reengineered Atkinson-cycle direct-injected 3.5L V6 hybrid engine (2GR-FXS) which is an evolution of the base six-cylinder drivetrain. The hybrid-powered drivetrain in the all-new Lexus RX is the latest, most advanced iteration of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Its key components and control systems have been enhanced and reengineered to deliver impressive fuel economy, low emissions and excellent on-road performance that will satisfy the most demanding driving enthusiast.
The transmission includes a hybrid front transaxle with new features including a transmission oil cooler for motor cooling, a pre-loaded differential for performance and enhanced control. The rear transaxle (for models equipped with AWD), which combines an electric motor with a reduction drive, features a new three-shaft configuration and aluminum case and cover to reduce weight.
When it comes to delivering precise, controlled handling, the new Lexus SUV offers impressive dynamic capability. The entire chassis has been fortified to provide enhanced straight-line stability and control through turns. The vehicle’s body structure has been strengthened with added stiffness, helping to enhance its handling response while reducing engine and road noise in the cabin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is standard, while Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) is available on select models. Each system is designed to help recognize loss of vehicle control, and help mitigate potentially dangerous situations with automatic and often transparent adjustments to help the vehicle maintain optimal traction. The RX450h also is offered in All-Weather Drive to help handling performance and control on dry and slick surfaces alike.
The fully independent suspension system, which consists of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone setup at rear, has been tuned and reinforced to enhance handling while keeping ride quality remarkably smooth.
Inside the passenger cabin, a new luxurious interior with elegant, high-quality trim exudes warmth and class. Specially finished Yamaha laser-cut ornamentation is available for those who appreciate an additional dimension of interior refinement. An available color heads-up display (HUD) projects pertinent vehicle information to the driver’s windshield, while the information display area, featuring an available 12.3-in. monitor with full-screen map, is situated atop the center stack. The shift lever, complete with leather boot, has been positioned away from the front of the instrument panel to optimize operability and create more space for the driver.
Rear-seat occupants are treated to more leg and knee space. The RX450h now offers heated outboard rear seats and a 60/40 power folding second row to enhance comfort and convenience. A newly available retractable power panorama moonroof enhances the cabin’s spaciousness and provides occupants with a refreshing open-air experience. The available rear seat entertainment system now includes 11.6-in. dual screens affixed to the back of the front headrests.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 109.8; overall length: 192.5; width: 74.6; height: 67.7
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 3.5L V6 – 259 hp at 6,000 rpm and 247 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, Motor Generator 2 (MG2) (front-wheel drive) 165 hp, Motor Generator Rear (MGR) (rear-wheel drive) 67 hp, and sealed nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack – 288V, 37kW.
Transmission: electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT)
EPA Fuel Economy: 31 city/30 highway (FWD); 30 city/28 highway (AWD)
Cargo capacity: 55.9 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs (AWD only)
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual front seat knee airbags, dual roll-sensing front/rear side-curtain airbags, side-impact door beams, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, vehicle dynamics integrated management system, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, daytime running lights, SmartAccess remote keyless entry, engine immobilizer, Safety Connect, LED front fog lamps, LED brake lights, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlamps, first aid kit, navigation system, HomeLink programmable garage door opener, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Bluetooth hands free phone system, backup monitor, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Optional safety features include color heads-up display, intuitive parking assist, panoramic view monitor, premium triple beam LED headlamps, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, all-speed dynamic radar cruise control, intelligent high beam, and lane departure alert with steering assist.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/unlimited 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Lexus RX 450h starts from $52,235 for the FWD model and $53,635 for AWD. Destination charges add $940.
