Return to Page 1: Introducing the fifth-gen 2022 Lexus RX

---

New hybrid sport model : RX 500h F Sport Performance 

Perhaps the most interesting of the RX lineup, the RX 500h is a new concept for Lexus, a ‘mid’ high-performance car (like an Audi S car) but with hybrid technology. Lexus calls this F Sport Performance ‘which is a performance model that takes the existing F Sport one step further by offering an enhanced powertrain.’ 

Given the ‘500’ number, we should expect V8-level performance so there should be 400-plus horsepower on tap, and around 550Nm of torque. 

As mentioned it’s a ‘medium-hot’ performance car, which is positioned above F Sport trim variants, and should in theory sit below full blown Lexus F models – but we haven’t actually seen any of the new-gen Lexus cars (IS, NX) as full-bore F models. 

Like the AWD hybrid models, the RX 500h uses ‘E-Four’, Toyota/Lexus’ hybrid all-wheel drive system with an electric motor driving the rear wheels. The RX 500h will have a more powerful rear motor than the others. E-Four claims to  ‘maximise the grip of the front and rear wheels, while also providing posture control to achieve a direct, torque-filled, and exhilarating driving feel.’ 

The system varies torque between the front and rear wheels (F:R) from 100:0 to 20:80, and it constantly varies depending on the situation. For example at corner entry, it’s 70:30 to 50:50, and 50:50 to 20:80 on corner exit. The RX 500h also has aluminium monobloc six-pot brakes, Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS aka all-wheel steering), 21-inch wheels with sportier tyres. As before, F Sport trim models will have adaptive suspension, and presumably the RX500h will too.

Unique cosmetic touches for this car are the F Sport mesh grille and unique F Sport front bumper, and the interior sees familiar F Sport touches such as perforated leather surfaces, micro-suede trim, aluminium pedals and more.  

Tazuna cockpit, interior tech improvements 

Like the NX, the RX uses a similar layout, what Lexus dubs the Tazuna cockpit, which is aimed at improving the overall human-machine interface and driving experience. 

Local spec may vary for Singapore, but the central infotainment touchscreen is available as a 9.8-inch or 14-inch unit, optional driver’s instrument display, heads-up display, and steering-wheel touch-sensitive switches. There’s more extensive ambient lighting – a must have for luxury cars now – and comprehensive panel of active and passive safety systems (Lexus Safety System+).

Refinement is claimed to be better thanks in part to aerodynamic/platform improvements. Lexus increased the sealing around the doors/glass, a dual bonnet locking mechanism (like the NX), increased sound-deadening insulation and adhesive amounts and placement. The drivetrains with the 2.4-litre turbo engine will also have Active Noise Cancellation. 

---

Pages: 1 2