The revised fourth generation Lexus RX looks a useful improvement. Jonathan Crouch reckons though, that'll it'll appeal to much the same kind of buyer.

Ten Second Review

Large, plush SUV motoring is personified by the Lexus RX. Since an original launch back in 1998, it's been finding a select but loyal band of buyers, usually with hybrid power - though this car still doesn't offer the clever Plug-in technology now being used by other rivals in this segment. This revised version is better equipped and can, if you wish, also be ordered in 7-seat RX L guise. Let's check it out.

Background

In an era where other brands trumpet hybrid engines in the luxury SUV segment as if they're the latest thing, Lexus can afford to feel rather smug. Toyota's luxury brand has been selling petrol electric power in its RX model in this market sector since 2005 and has further refined that technology in the improved version of the fourth generation design that we're going to look at here. Surprisingly, the brand has chosen - for the moment at least - not to follow rivals in offering buyers hybrid power with a Plug-in option, but it has that technology at its fingertips for the future.

Of course, not every buyer in this part of the market wants a hybrid, but Lexus doesn't agree with the diesel technology that rivals offer. Engines apart, this sharper MK4 model RX looks tempting, though it still won't be the first choice for those prioritising driving dynamics.

Driving Experience

Not too many dynamic changes feature here. Apparently the structure of this revised model's slightly stiffer. There are new shock absorbers. And the RX is now equipped with 'Active Cornering Assist' torque vectoring to maximise cornering traction. There are clever new 'BladeScan Adaptive High-beam headlights too. Otherwise, it's as you were. So what's the RX 450h hybrid like? Well you get in, luxuriate in the beautiful leather seats and enjoy the commanding SUV-style driving position before pressing the starter button to be greeted by. Nothing. The engine's running, true enough. It's just that at this point, it's doing so silently under battery power alone and if you've a gentle right foot, that's all it will continue to use at speeds of up to 30mph before the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine kicks in, controlled via a six-speed CVT auto gearbox.

This mechanical package is much as it was before, with power rated at 308bhp and there's a useful 335Nm of torque for towing. It sounds good too, thanks to a sound generator system that creates a performance-style air intake roar. The E-Four 4WD system's functions have been tuned for sharp response when accelerating through bends. Don't expect too much in terms of off piste ability though. Lexus doesn't think potential buyers will be interested - and they're probably right. Instead, the brand has concentrated on improving the tarmac response of it's the steering and suspension systems in recent years, so as to create a more involving drive. And sure enough, the RX is still one of the most comfortable, refined SUVs in its class.

Design and Build

As before, there are two body styles - standard five-seat RX and seven-seat RX L. In this revised form, both variants get smarter bumpers and a re-designed front spindle grille. Inside, there's the same classy, spacious cabin that sits its passengers relatively low for better headroom. Lexus always does interiors very well, with lashings of leather and high quality trim.

The brand has revised the multi-media centre-dash touchscreen and (at last) added in 'Apple CarPlay' and 'Android Auto' smartphone-mirroring into it. In fact, this car is now very well connected indeed. Using voice control, RX owners can access Apple Siri or Google Assistant via their smartphones. And they can also choose whether or not to use the Lexus Navigation system fitted in the vehicle or an alternative service on their smartphone.

The Japanese designers say that they have paid special attention to the comfort of rear seat passengers with this RX. Lowering the rear floor section has produced a seating position that bears comparison with the LS limousine. In the seven-seat RX L variant, the third row chairs now have two different seating positions, with the additional new setting giving more legroom for the occupant when required. There's a 453-litre boot with the second row seat back up in the RX model - which falls to 432-litres in an RX L model with the same configuration in place.

Market and Model

List prices start at around £51,000 for this car in base hybrid 450h 'RX'-spec form. Next up is the 'F Sport' version, costing around £55,000, then the top 'Takumi' derivative, priced at around £62,000. That's for the standard body shape. If you want the lengthened RX L 7-seat version, there's a premium to pay which varies from around £1,200 if you go for base trim to as little as around £300 if you've chosen top 'Takumi' spec. Pricing represents decent value compared to notable rivals like BMW's X5, Mercedes' GLE and the Range Rover Sport.

Across the range, you'll find standard features like full-leather upholstery, powered heated seats, dual-zone climate control, rear privacy glass, the Lexus Navigation system with an eight-inch display screen, a nine-speaker audio set-up with DAB, a reversing camera, LED headlamps, roof rails and dual chrome-tipped exhausts.

Across the complete range, an improved Lexus Safety System+ package is fitted as standard, elements include a Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Sway Warning System, Traffic Sign Recognition and an Automatic High Beam/Adaptive High-beam System.

Cost of Ownership

The WLTP combined cycle returns on offer from this RX450h - 35.3mpg-35.7mpg and emissions returns from 134g/km of CO2 with 18-inch wheels fitted - look very good indeed. You're essentially looking at diesel-style running costs with cheaper green pump fuel, plus the kind of CO2 figure that'll really make a difference when it comes to the bottom line figure on your tax return.

Of course, much of the time - when you're waiting at a traffic crossing for example with the engine seamlessly disabled and battery power in motion - you won't be emitting any CO2 at all. Electric-only use doesn't just eliminate CO2 dirtiness: it also gets rid of Nox exhaust emissions too, green-friendliness today's government wants to incentivise. As a result, Lexus reckons that ownership of this car could save higher-rate tax payers a considerable amount when they compare this car against some of its less efficient diesel rivals. At the same time, the companies they work for will benefit from a handy 20% write-down allowance against tax.

Summary

While other manufacturers dithered over hybrid technology, Toyota's Lexus division got on and developed it. Their first hybrid RX was an impressive achievement and this one has added a more stylish, spacious cabin and extra technology to existing strengths of comfort, refinement and a high specification. Overall though, the reasons you'll want to buy this car really haven't changed very much. Comfort, efficiency and class. As ever with Lexus.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Lexus RX

PRICES: £51,565 - £62,365

INSURANCE GROUPS: 34-43

CO2 EMISSIONS: 178-180g/km

PERFORMANCE: [RX 450h] 0-62mph 7.7s / Max speed 124mph

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [RX 450h 18-inch wheels] (combined) 36.2mpg

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Stability control, anti lock brakes with brake assist and brakeforce distribution, twin front, side, curtain, knee airbags

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 4890/1895/1685 mm