Lexus RX

Infobox Automobile
name=Lexus RX


manufacturer=Lexus
parent_company=Toyota Motor Corporation
production=1997–present
class=Mid-size crossover SUV
aka=Toyota Harrier
body_style=4-door SUV
related=Lexus ES
Toyota Camry
Toyota Highlander
layout=Front-engine, FWD, 4WD

The Lexus RX is a mid-size 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-type hybrid, the RX 400h, and the RX 330 was upgraded to the RX 350 for model year 2007.

As one of the first luxury SUVs on the market, the Lexus RX has inspired similar competitors from rival marques. Its commercial success as Lexus' best-selling model has been attributed to the strong reliability reputation of Lexus and the RX line [ [http://www.hotcarsearch.com/Lexus-Car/auto.html Lexus RX 350 Review, hotcarsearch.com] ] , and it has been the best-selling luxury vehicle in the United States. [ [http://www.forbes.com/2005/12/09/luxury-cars-sales-cx_dl_1212feat_ls.html Best-Selling Luxury Cars 2005 - Forbes.com ] ] The RX is also the only Lexus vehicle to be produced outside of Japan, being made at the Cambridge plant in Canada.

The RX designation, coincidentally similar to the unrelated Mazda RX-7/RX-8 coupes and the Kia Rio RX-V hatchback in Canada, signifies its place in the Lexus lineup next to the larger GX and LX SUVs. One of the first crossovers, the RX series is designed to combine the functional characteristics of an SUV with the ride and features of a luxury-type sedan.

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First generation (1997-2003)

Infobox Automobile generation
name=First generation
aka=Lexus RX 300
assembly=Kyūshū, Japan


production=1997–2003
engine=2.2 L "5S-FE" I4, Convert|139|hp|kW|0|abbr=on & 191 Nm (140 ft·lbf) JIS
3.0 L "1MZ-FE" V6, Convert|219|hp|kW|0|abbr=on & 304 Nm (224 ft·lbf) JIS
2.4 L "2AZ-FE", Convert|159|hp|kW|0|abbr=on & 221 Nm (163 ft·lbf) JIS
wheelbase='99-'00: Auto in|103.1|0
'01-'03: Auto in|103.0|0
length='01-'03: Auto in|180.3|0
'99-'00: Auto in|180.1|0
width= Auto in|71.5|0
height= Auto in|65.7|0
fuel_capacity=Convert|19.8|usgal|L impgal|1
transmission=4-speed automatic

In February 1997, Lexus debuted the "Sport Luxury Vehicle" (SVL) concept, a prototype crossover SUV, at the Chicago Auto Show. [ [http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/february/new0207d.htm Businessweek: A Sport-Ute in Every Driveway?, BusinessWeek.com] ] This concept, which appeared close to production, combined the characteristics of an SUV, wagon, and sedan. [ [http://www.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp?section=reviews&makeid=27&modelid=8351&year=2007&revid=49864&revlogtype=22 Cars.com - 2007 Lexus RX 350] ] In Japan, the SLV concept appeared in first-generation Harrier form (codename SXU10 and MCU10 for the front wheel drive models, and SXU15 and MCU15 for the four wheel drive models) in December 1997. Two engines were available, the 2.2 L "5S-FE" I4 which produced Convert|139|hp|kW|0|abbr=on JIS (102 kW) and 191 Nm (140 ft·lbf), and the 3.0 L "1MZ-FE" V6 which produced Convert|219|hp|kW|0|abbr=on JIS (161 kW) and 304 Nm (224 ft·lbf). Both engines could be specified with either front or all wheel drive. All models came with an automatic transmission as standard. The vehicle was partly based on the Camry platform.

premium customized sound system was available as an option. The Lexus RX was an immediate hit, and sold over 370,000 units in five years. [ [http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2003/08/07/166546.html Autochannel 2004 Lexus RX330 Review, theautochannel.com] ]

In Japan, the first-generation Harrier was a sales success, and many went to other right hand drive markets in Asia as grey imports. The Harrier continued largely unchanged until November 2000, when the 2.2 L "5S-FE" engine was replaced by the 2.4 L "2AZ-FE" 4-cylinder engine, producing Convert|159|hp|kW|0|abbr=on JIS (117 kW) and 221 Nm (163 ft·lbf). As before, the engine was offered with either front wheel drive or four wheel drive. The change in engine also meant a change in model code, which was now ACU10 for the front wheel drive version and ACU15 for the four wheel drive version. A small facelift was also performed on the Harrier.

In 2001, the RX gained a number of options, including a GPS-linked automotive navigation system, a wood and leather trimmed steering wheel, and tow hitch receiver. Cabin equipment options were grouped into new package offerings. In 2002, Lexus further introduced the limited RX 300 "Coach Edition," featuring perforated leather trim in the interior, honeycomb grille, Coach badging on the exterior and interior, and a set of Coach luggage. This edition was only offered for that year. A burgundy exterior color, Venetian Red Pearl, was only offered for 1999-2000 year models.cite web|url=http://www.lexus.com/lexus/query.do?col=lexus&qt=RX+art&x=0&y=0|title=Lexus Knowledge Base|accessdate=2007-07-30|format=PDF|publisher=Lexus|date=2007]

In 2000, the Lexus RX went on sale in Europe and Asia for the first time. Distinguishing features for these versions of the RX 300 included a different rear light cluster and larger wheels. The front wheel drive version was not offered in either Europe or Asia.

econd generation (2004-2009)

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Second generation


production=2004–2009
aka=Lexus RX 300
Lexus RX 330
Lexus RX 350
Lexus RX 400h
engine=(2004 - 2006) 3.3 L "3MZ-FE" V6, Convert|223|hp|kW|0|abbr=on SAE (166 kW) & 323 Nm (238 ft·lbf)
(2007 - ) 3.5-Liter V6 "2GR-FE", Horsepower 270 @ 6,200 rpm, Torque (ft·lbf) 251 @ 4,700 rpm
wheelbase= Auto in|106.9|0
assembly=Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
Kyūshū, Japan
length= Auto in|186.2|0
width= Auto in|72.6|0
height= Auto in|66.1|0
fuel_capacity=Convert|19.20|usgal|L impgal|1
transmission=5-speed automaticIn January 2003, Lexus unveiled the second-generation model of its best-selling luxury-type SUV at the North American International Auto Show, featuring a newer, sleeker body style. [ [http://autoweb.drive.com.au/cms/A_55461/newsarticle.html New Lexus To Redefine 4WD Style, drive.com.au] ] In February 2003, the second generation Harrier (codename ACU30 and MCU30 for the front wheel drive models, and ACU35 and MCU35 for the all wheel drive models) was launched in Japan. Chassis elements were shared with the Highlander SUVs. [ [http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2007-lexus-rx.htm Consumer Guide Auto - Lexus RX] ] Mechanical specification was largely similar to the first-generation Harrier, with the same engine and drivetrain combinations available (2.4 L and 3.0 L V6 with or without all wheel drive). The main difference was a new 5-speed automatic transmission with +/- shift replacing the 4-speed item in the 3.0 L V6, and the availability of "AIRS" air-suspension on the 3.0 L V6 models.

and (238 ft·lbf), and is available in either front or four wheel drive. Height-adjustable air-suspension is again an option on the four wheel drive models (akin to "AIRS" system). 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 an 210-watt, 11-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, GPS navigation, rear seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones, and a panoramic, multi-panel moonroof. A power rear door is standard.

The second generation Lexus RX was launched for European and Asian markets in early 2003 (including Singapore, where it succeeded the previously sold Harrier, South Korea, and Taiwan), where it continues to be an RX 300 and is made in Japan. Mechanical specification is more or less identical to the 3.0 L V6 Harrier, with only the four wheel drive version available. Once again, air-suspension and Mark Levinson audio can be specified. In 2005, Lexus introduced the RX 330 "Thundercloud Edition" for the U.S. market, featuring a horizontal-slatted grille, aluminum alloy wheels, and other select options as standard.

Sales of the second generation Lexus RX have continued the success of the RX series for Lexus. In 2006, the RX series sold over 108,000 units, making the Lexus RX the highest-selling luxury vehicle in the United States. [ [http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/28/2008-lexus-rx350-pricing-announced/ Autoblog - 2008 Lexus RX 350 pricing announced] ]

RX 400h

:"See also Lexus RX 400h" went on sale in North America in April 2005. [ [http://research.cars.com/go/crp/buyingGuides/Story.jsp?year=New&story=Lexus&section=makes&subject=makes&aff= Cars.com - New Lexus Buying Guide, research.cars.com] ] Europe and Asia also received the Hybrid RX in 2006. 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 foglights, 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

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 were new exterior choices. Black Bird's Eye Maple wood with gray interior was a new interior option. For the 2009 model year, there is a new Pebble Beach Edition, also available on the SC430, ES350, and LS600hL.

Future

With an all new Toyota Highlander recently put into production, an updated RX is anticipated for the 2010 model year. It is predicted that the new hybrid version of the RX, due to be renamed RX 450h, will debut at SEMA 2008 in Las Vegas for the 2011 model year. The current concept vehicle for the next generation RX is the LFX-h.

Awards

*J.D. Power and Associates named the Lexus RX the best entry luxury SUV in its 2001, 2004, and 2005 Initial Quality Surveys. [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2004037 J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Initial Quality Study, jdpower.com] ] [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2005069 Toyota, GM Garner Most Awards in 2005 Initial Quality Study] ]
*Winner "Australia's Best Luxury Four Wheel Drive" in 2004 - Lexus RX 330.
* R. L. Polk & Co., automotive marketing research firm, gave the RX series its Polk Automotive Loyalty Award in the Midsize Sport Utility Vehicle category in 2005 for customer retention. [ [http://usa.polk.com/Company/Loyalty/ Polk Automotive Loyalty Award Winners] ] The RX series received this award again for 2006.
*The Lexus RX was named most appealing luxury SUV by J.D. Power and Associates in 1998 and 2004. [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2004150 J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study] ]
*"Intellichoice" named the Lexus RX the Best Overall Value in the SUV market over $30,000 in 2003, 2004, and 2005. [ [http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/112_news030214_bovy/ IntelliChoice Reveals Best Overall Value Award Winners for 2003 Model Year Vehicles] ] [ [http://www.intellichoice.com/press/2005_BOVY_Release 2005 Intellichoice Best Overall Value Awards] ]
*Australia's Best Cars competition named the Lexus RX as Australia's Best Luxury Four Wheel Drive in 2003 and 2004. [ [http://autoweb.drive.com.au/cms/A_103216/newsarticle.html RX330 is Still Australia's Best Luxury Four-Wheel Drive] ]
* Kelley Blue Book gave the RX its Best to Hold Value Award in 1999, 2000, and 2001. [ [http://www.carfax.com/DP_Rpt_Links/KBB_Award_Winners.cfm#1999 CARFAX - Kelley Blue Book-Models to Best Hold Its Value] ]
*"Money" magazine named the RX 300 the Best Deal on the Road in the SUV class in 1999.
*The RX 300 was "Motor Trend" magazine's Sport/Utility of the Year for 1999.
*The Lexus RX came 3rd in the Top Gear Satisfaction Survey 2005, beaten only by the Lexus IS, and the Honda S2000.

Gallery

References

External links

* [http://www.lexus.com/models/RX/ Lexus RX] official U.S. site
* [http://www.lexus-europe.com/range/index.aspx#RX Lexus RX] official Europe site
* [http://www.ActivelySafe.com ActivelySafe.com] RX safety features site
* [http://www.lexus.com.au/model/rx/ Lexus RX 350/400h] official Australia site
* [http://www.lexus.ca/lexus/experience/en/home/vehicles/rx/veh_group.jsp?series=rx&model=HW31UP&year=2007 Lexus RX 350/400h] official Canada site
* [http://www.lexus.com.tw/ Lexus RX 350] official Taiwan site
* Lexus RX 400h - external links for the RX hybrid