The Lexus RX has the unique feature of only offering a petrol-electric hybrid engine. Such an engine is expensive to most budgets, but given the target market’s capability it’s not such an impossible reach. The fuel-sipping hybrid engine’s third generation RX has become a popular choice. The latest model also offers significant improvements such as better performance figures, CO2 output, fuel economy, and class-leading low emissions. This makes the RX a practical company car option thanks to its lower taxation.

Pros

Don’t be fooled by the “only” aspect of its hybrid engine. The combination of an electric motor with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine makes its performance environmentally friendly and one of the fastest units out in the market. The Lexus RX is at par with the BMW X5 30d with its 62mph sprint time at 7.8 seconds. You won’t have any problems driving through slow traffic as the battery power maintains that necessary boost. The battery power alone can arrive at 25mph without any help from the petrol side. The petrol and electric motor alone effectively combine a power at 295bhp. The batteries in the electric motor are responsible for keeping the engine charged while under braking or coasting. The electric motor is also handy as you overtake or merge into a motorway.

The engine isn’t the only impressive feature of the Lexus RX. The car’s balance and composure is quite an improvement from its previous life, allowing the RX to standout among the increasing population of 4x4s that promise comfort and on-road agility. The latest RX balances and guarantees both, promising an enjoyable and practical ride. Controlling the air suspension electronically and initiating the active stabilizer for better agility can further improve these features. The SE-L premier includes the active stabilizer and coil springs, while the SE-L models include the air suspension. Expect the active stabilizer to minimize body roll throughout the ride; air suspension can reduce the ride height when going at higher speeds. The air suspension can also improve aerodynamics and enhance the vehicle’s stability.

The interior continues the IS’ improvements, adding more space and comfort for its passengers. All seats sport leather trim as standard and can be heated according to the necessary temperature. Front seats are electrically adjustable on the entry-level SE trim, while the SE-L model includes heating for the front seats and ventilation. The engine remains quiet in the cabin, allowing for a quiet experience while you’re going on long journeys.

Cons

Luggage space is adequate on the RX at 446 litres, but not as large as its non-hybrid competitors. You could easily fold down the rear seats for a bigger boot or slide the seats forwards for better legroom. Passengers with longer and bulkier packages, however, will still feel lacking against the 500+ litres of other less expensive cars.

Although the RX offers many enhancements to agility and stabilisation, ride quality tends to be poor on the flat road surfaces. This is off-putting considering that most owners will take the IS on regular motorways or around town. The four-wheel drive system is also not recommended for long off-road use, as it can only enhance stability and traction for the more difficult on-road conditions.

                The Lexus RX, a sport utility vehicle or SUV, was created by Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus, since the year 1998. This was a five door wagon with a front engine, front wheel drive or a front engine, four wheel drive layout.

                The first generation RX was also called the XU10 or Toyota Harrier. This was produced in 1997 until 2003, and it was assembled in Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan. The XU10 was crossover between a sport utility vehicle and a luxury sedan, and was given a 4-speed automatic transmission. This was designed by Makoto Oshima in 1995 and was shown in February 1997 as a concept SUV at the Chicago Auto Show.

                This version of the RX has been called the most appealing luxury SUV in 1998 by the J.D. Power and Associates. In 2003, the second generation of the car was released and was called the XU30. This was assembled still in Fukuoka, Japan, and also in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. His version was designed in the year 2000 by Hiroshi Sukuki, and the XU30 was displayed at the North American International Auto Show in January 2003.

                The third generation Lexus RX was designed by Masanari Sakae in 2006 and was produced since 2009. This was assembled in the same place in Japan and Canada and was available as a 6-speed automatic.