The new, upgraded Lexus RX model range made its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX exterior features a new, more elegant and aggressive frontal design. An enhanced interior offers an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
The versatility of the European flagship RX 450h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been enhanced by the addition of a Sport mode, supplementing the full hybrid powertrain’s Normal, Eco and EV (electric only) drive modes. The EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch. Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and designed to attract new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version will be available. Expected to account for some 30% of future model range sales, the new F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.
The new Lexus RX range is hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual frontal treatment which will be adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges. Giving the new RX a powerful, commanding road presence, this new, more aggressive design is a further evolution of a styling cue first developed on the CT 200h and GS model ranges. The inverted trapezoid upper grille and slanted lower grille have been combined and integrated into a single element, bridging the bumper mid-section to create a prominent ‘spindle’ shape. Reinforcing this more modern and bolder identity, the lower grille now features horizontal bars and is finished in black.
Further broadening the appeal of its spacious, luxurious and technically advanced dual-zone ‘crossover’ cockpit, the new RX interior features an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). Adding to the choice of interior colour schemes available, Saddle Tan, and F SPORT-exclusive Black and White Grey designs join the existing Ivory, Black and Light Grey line-up. The choice of trim inserts has also increased; luxurious Walnut and classic Dark Grey complimented by the addition of modern, Dark Grey bird’s eye maple and F SPORT-exclusive Silver finishes.
From start-up and at speeds of less than 50km/h the RX 450h automatically operates in EV mode, driving under electric motor power alone. The driver may also select EV mode manually. This unique driving mode is only available through the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive. The EV drive mode allows for relaxing urban driving with minimal noise, and zero CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, for up to two kilometres. Because the petrol engine is switched off throughout its operation, the EV drive mode contributes to a significant reduction in the new Lexus’ overall fuel consumption. In Eco mode, throttle response to aggressive accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control optimized for improved fuel economy. Depending on driving conditions, the Eco mode can help customers adopt a relaxed driving style, and can achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.
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