Lexus launches RX 350 crossover luxury SUV

MANILA, Philippines - Two days ago, at its posh showroom inside Fort Bonifacio Global City, Lexus Manila unveiled the all-new RX 350, the newest iteration of what happens to be the world’s bestselling Lexus model.

The P4.208 million Lexus RX 350 is a crossover SUV that blends equal amounts of Lexus levels of comfort and luxury and the versatility and off-roading capability of an SUV.

The innovative technology of the 3.5-liter dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) V6 engine delivers powerful performance. The motor, coupled with the intelligent 6-speed automatic transmission, promises to combine smooth yet strong acceleration with a high level of fuel efficiency.

Providing off-road capability is an electronically-controlled Active Torque Control all-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes torque to each of the four wheels in varying amounts depending on the driving conditions.

Its 18-inch all-terrain tires and heavy-duty suspension yield a high level of stability and ruggedness while the Multi-mode manumatic transmission allows sporty driving with the control of a manual transmission.

Lexus’ design philosophy is exuded through the bold and refined form of the RX350. It starts with the bold stylized “L” in the center of the waterfall grille that’s framed by a subtle power bulge that runs the length of the hood. Large headlamps stretch rearwards into the fenders.

The side panels are minimally adorned, with the sharply angled D-pillar and large rear quarter window retaining the first-gen RX’s styling signature. A steeply raked backlight, large clear-lens tail lamps, and a backlight-mounted rear spoiler imbue the RX 350 with a sporty and luxurious feel.

Exterior features include a moonroof with jam protection system, power door mirrors with foot area illumination, and LED high-mount stop lamp. The distinctive tail lamps also use LEDs, which are brighter and light up faster than conventional brake lights, giving the driver behind the Lexus extra fractions of a second to react in an emergency braking situation.

The door handles feature touch sensors for locking/unlocking – eliminating the need for buttons. To compliment the smooth surfaces, the multifunction rear door can be opened or closed electronically by remote control or via a cabin switch.

The interior is filled with innovative technologies, permeating the smallest details from the generous five-seater cabin space to the advanced instrument panel. Comfort and luxury comes from features such as seating position memory switches for driver and front passenger seats, an auxiliary jack for audio devices, a premium 9-speaker sound system, and independent temperature controls.

Intelligent functions also refine the driving experience with a multi-information display using white organic LED, a back monitor camera integrated into the rear view mirror, and an Eco Driving Indicator that shows whether the driving style is fuel efficient or not. The Multi-Information Switches on the steering wheel help customize numerous vehicle settings such as options for Speed-Sensitive Auto Lock, Shift-Linked Auto Lock/Unlock, Light Sensor Sensitivity, and Interior/Exterior Off Time Adjustment.

Advanced safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist, and Adaptive Front-Lighting System. On the other hand, passive safety features include dual-stage SRS driver and front passenger airbags as well as SRS knee, side and curtain shield airbags. In the event of rear-end collisions, Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) seats provide added support to the front occupants’ neck and upper back.

The RX350, which is now available at Lexus’ state-of-the-art showroom at the Bonifacio Global City, comes in white pearl, dark grey mica, black, dark blue mica, silver mica metallic, red mica, beige metallic, sable mica metallic, and silvery blue metallic.

Other models being offered at Lexus Manila are the sport luxury IS 300, luxury sedan ES 350, performance luxury sedan GS 460, luxury full-size SUV LX 570, and flagship luxury sedan LS 460L.