Lexus RX fifth generation brings lighter, stiffer ride with new tech

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Lexus has rolled out the fifth generation RX crossover, a move announced by the brand’s press office. The model marks a new chapter for the SUV lineup, bringing a blend of advanced engineering, modern refinement, and enhanced on-road presence. The public debut underlines Lexus’ commitment to evolving its mid-size luxury crossover with contemporary design cues and improved driving dynamics that appeal to both long-time fans and new buyers in North America.

The RX rides on the new GA-K platform, a backbone engineered to deliver a stiffer body structure and improved rigidity. This architectural shift helps reduce overall weight by about 90 kilograms compared with the prior generation. The lighter architecture is achieved in part through the use of an aluminum hood and lighter front fenders, contributing to efficiency and performance without compromising safety. Exterior dimensions show that length remains steady at 4890 millimeters, while the footprint widens by 25 millimeters to 1920 millimeters and lowers by 10 millimeters to 1695 millimeters, yielding a more assertive stance. The wheelbase grows by 60 millimeters, reaching 2850 millimeters, which translates into enhanced cabin room and improved ride comfort on Canadian and American roads alike.

Inside, top trim RX models promise a substantial upgrade with a 14-inch touchscreen for infotainment control and media access. The traditional central tunnel touchpad is no longer part of the setup, reflecting Lexus’ push toward a more intuitive and streamlined interface. A notable option is a driver monitoring camera that contributes to active safety; it can recognize signs of driver fatigue or medical distress and intervene if necessary, adding a new layer of protection for highway travel and daily commuting alike.

Under the hood, the RX 350 will be offered with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine delivering 279 horsepower, aligning performance with the needs of Canadian drivers who value brisk acceleration and confident highway passing. The hybrid variant RX 350h pairs a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, generating a total system output of 245 horsepower, which emphasizes efficiency without sacrificing torque or refinement. In addition, there will be a plug-in hybrid RX450h+ that peaks at 306 horsepower, presenting buyers with substantial all-electric driving capability as well as a seamless transition to gasoline power for longer trips across the U.S. and Canada.

The lineup also broadens with a high-performance option: the hybrid Lexus RX 500h F Sport. This version is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 371 horsepower, combining sporting intent with the renowned Lexus balance of comfort and refinement. Market introduction for Europe is slated for this autumn, underscoring the global reach of the RX lineup while confirming how North American specifications and cadence align with the brand’s worldwide strategy.

In broader context, industry chatter around Lexus often mirrors discussions about electrification and electrified performance within the luxury SUV segment. While this article notes the key specifications and US/Canada market relevance of the fifth-generation RX, readers may also encounter recent statements about other manufacturers exploring rugged, electric traction vehicles such as UAZ Patriot adaptations from the Russian market. These developments highlight a growing consumer demand for versatile, efficient, and safe family-oriented crossovers that still deliver dynamic driving pleasure and dependable day-to-day usability. The RX series, with its range of powertrains and modern tech features, sits squarely within that trend, offering a refined option for buyers who expect luxury, efficiency, and advanced safety features in one cohesive package.

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