The Lexus RX is a mid-size entry-level luxury crossover SUV produced by Toyota Motor Corporation. In North America, Europe, Oceania, and parts of Asia, including Singapore as a 2003 introduction and Japan as a 2008 introduction, it is sold by Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, as the Lexus RX series (such as the RX 300, RX 330 and RX 350). It is currently sold in Japan and previously in Singapore as the Toyota Harrier. The RX first premiered in 1997 as a Lexus concept, followed several months later by debut of the production RX 300/Harrier models. In 2003, the second generation RX debuted in the U.S., and the redesigned RX 330/Harrier went on sale shortly after. In 2004, the RX line added the world's first luxury hybrid, the RX 400h, and the RX 330 was upgraded to the RX 350 for model year 2007.
As one of the first crossover SUVs on the market, the Lexus RX has served as a model for subsequent designs. Its commercial success as Lexus' best-selling model has been attributed to the strong reliability reputation of Lexus and the RX line. The RX designation, coincidently similar to the unrelated Mazda RX-7/RX-8 coupes and the Kia Rio RX-V station wagon in Canada, signifies its place in the Lexus lineup next to the larger GX and LX SUVs. The RX series is designed to combine the functional characteristics of a SUV with the ride and features of a luxury sedan.
Models
RX 330
RX 400h
RX 350
RX 330
The second generation RX, called the RX 330 for the North American and Middle Eastern markets, began sales in March 2003. The North American-market cars were initially built in Japan, with production of the RX 330 started at Toyota's Cambridge, Ontario, Canada plant in September 2003. The RX 330 is powered by a 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6, producing 240 hp and 238 ft-lb, and is available in either FWD or AWD. Height-adjustable air-suspension is again an option on the four wheel drive models. The new model sports a drag coefficient of Cd 0.35.
The second-generation RX interior features 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. Available options include a 210-watt, 11-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, GPS navigation, rear seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones, and a panoramic, multi-panel moon roof. A power rear door is standard.
Sales of the second generation Lexus RX have continued the success of the RX series for Lexus. With the vehicle regularly logging over 100,000 units in sales annually in the U.S. alone, the Lexus RX has become one of the most popular luxury vehicles on the market. In 2006, the RX series sold to over 108,000 customers nationally, making the Lexus RX the highest-selling luxury vehicle in the United States.
RX 400h
The Lexus RX 400h Hybrid is the world's first luxury hybrid SUV, and the first hybrid luxury vehicle. The Lexus RX 400h features Lexus Hybrid Drive, which combines a V6 engine and electric motors. This results in performance akin to V8s with improved fuel economy and lower emissions. The RX 400h first premiered at the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The hybrid Lexus RX 400h went on sale in North America in April 2005. The debut model was an all-wheel drive version, and in 2006 a front-wheel drive version was also offered. The RX 400h features styling differences with the conventional gas-powered RX, including metal interior trim in place of wood, round fog lights, 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.
RX 350
For 2007, the RX received a mid-cycle refresh consisting of a new 3.5-liter V6 instead of the older 3.3-liter V6 engine, changing 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 was a new exterior choice. Black Bird's Eye Maple wood with gray interior was a new interior option.
Specialty models:
2005-Current Thundercloud Edition:
In 2005, Lexus introduced the RX 330 "Thundercloud Edition" for the U.S. market, featuring a horizontal-slatted grille, aluminum alloy wheels, and select luxury options as standard.
Options, Features, & Specifications
Year Range: 2004-Present
Passengers: 5
Original MSRP: $35,775 - $44,275
Average Bluebook Today: $29,500 - $38,000
Fuel Mileage: 18-24 mpg
Horsepower: 223-270 hp
Torque: 238-251 ft-lb
Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs
Transmission: 5 Speed Automatic FWD or AWD
List of some of the standard features:
ABS, EBD (electronic brake force distribution), Brake Assist, electronic stability control, traction control, advanced front airbags including driver's knee bag, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and daytime running lights
List of some of the optional features:
Premium Plus package includes leather-trimmed upholstery, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, one-touch open/close moon roof, high-intensity discharge headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System, roof rack, illuminated entry; 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires and full-size spare, heated front seats with rain-sensing wipers and headlamp washers