Highlight: The RX name stands for Radiant Crossover, according to Wikipedia.
Test vehicle’s MSRP: $46,950 (Base Model starts at $40,670)
Seating Capacity: 5
Standard Safety Features: 10 airbags; ABS; an electronic brake force distribution; LED Running Lights; a vehicle theft deterrent system; automatic collision notification; an emergency assist button; an enhanced roadside assistance system; and a tire pressure monitoring system
Standard Equipment: 18-inch wheels; a 6-speed transmission; 10-way power cloth seats; driver’s seat easy/exit access; a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a rearview automatic mirror; keyless entry with a smart less touch pad; partially reclining rear seats; and a Tonneau cover for the cargo area.
Suspension System:
Front- Macpherson Strut, coil
Rear- Double Wishbone type, coil springs
Standard Audio: a 9-speaker AM/FM/CD with XM Satellite subscription for 90 days
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles
Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes
Standard Engine/Horsepower): 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder/270-horsepower
Recommended Fuel: Regular
Standard Fuel Mileage: 18-city/25-hwy
Towing: 3,500 lbs
Other Trim Levels:
RX 450h (a hybrid model)
What’s New: Lexus’ luxurious five-passenger crossover went through a major overhaul during the 2013 model year. So, with that being the case, there are only a few changes for the 2014 model year.
Pros: The roomy five-passenger
crossover is really considered a multiuse vehicle. The peppy 6-cylinder model is capable of carrying people
and loads of cargo, especially when the rear seats are folded-down and not in
use. The RX is literally an all-purpose vehicle. Depending on how it is equipped, the RX can
be transformed from a gasoline model to a hybrid model to an all-wheel drive
model to the sportier and more athletic F-type model.
The base model RX we reviewed was
outfitted with just a few accessories. The
crossover included a navigation system, a rear camera, real-time traffic data,
real-time weather updates, real-time sports scores, an audible alert parking
system, blind spot monitoring, leather seats, a power sunroof, and an upgraded
audio system, which included 12 speakers, HD radio, and iTune tagging.
Moreover, for those seeking out the
latest high-tech safety features, they can opt for a Pre-Collision system, which
includes a forward warning collision system and a radar activated cruise
control system. Furthermore, serious audio lovers can opt for the premium class
Mark Levinson system, which steps the game up to a 15-speaker audio system
coupled with a DVD player.
Cons: The somewhat well-appointed
RX we reviewed lacked standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel. In our
opinion, these features should be standard on a vehicle synonymous with luxury.
It’s also ironic that for the base price of
approximately $40,000, there is not much included in the base model Lexus RX, if we can call it that, until
one adds-on a few options. In fact, we did not realize leather seats, a
navigation system and a back up camera system weren't standard, until we
reviewed the RX. Yes, even mainstream brands like Honda makes the back up camera
standard on every Civic.
The Verdict: The
third-generation RX continues to be a segment sales leader, after fourteen years
on the market. The RX is the perfect luxury alternative to station wagons and
truck-like SUVs. The car-based crossover is truly an all-purpose vehicle. It’s
able to carry five in luxury as well as cargo. In fact, the vehicle is capable
of pulling up to 3,500 lbs. The RX is the perfect soccer mom vehicle, as well
as the perfect dad vehicle, when the F-Sport trim is added, which consist of larger wheels, larger brakes and a
performance-tuned suspension system. Yes, there is something for everyone with
the RX.
Now we’re wondering when Lexus plans on adding a third-row seat to the RX, making it a seven-passenger crossover like its nearest competitor, the Buick Enclave.
Competition: Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLK and Volvo XC60
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