New York 2015: 2016 Lexus RX Bows

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

The fourth-gen 2016 Lexus RX arrived in the spotlight at the 2015 New York Auto Show.

Power for the standard RX comes via 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 delivering 300 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic, while the RX 450h uses a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V6 in a hybrid setup, also putting out 300 horsepower.

Styling is updated for 2016, with the premium crossover taking on Lexus’ Predator-esque design language. Standard 19-inch wheels with optional 20-inch aluminum wheels are available, while LED lighting flanks the front and rear.

Inside, rear occupants gain more leg and knee room, and have their choice of viewing the sky via a power panorama moonroof, or checking up on their Toyota shares via an entertainment system with a pair of 11.6-inch screens. The driver, meanwhile, has an available HUD keeping important details within sight, along with a 12.3-inch monitor with full-screen map.

Those who want more can opt for the AWD-only F Sport package, which includes 20-inch graphite-finish alloys, perforated leather trim, Sport S+ driving mode, and custom instrument cluster.

Other features include: the Lexus Safety System+ package, debuting with the RX; Michelin Premier tires; adaptive variable suspension; vehicle stability; and three driving modes — four with the aformentioned F Sport package.












Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

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  • Lightspeed Lightspeed on Apr 01, 2015

    Really fussy and overwrought. Like the floating d-pillar though. The high belt-line on these stretches the lower part of the grille out of proportion. In profile it loks surprisingly low and wagon-like. Overall, they should have put a Lexus interior in a Venza. The NX in comparison looks much better.

  • Gasser Gasser on Apr 01, 2015

    I have actually bought 3 RXs since 1999. This won't be the fourth one

  • SCE to AUX With these items under the pros:[list][*]It's quick, though it seems to take the powertrain a second to get sorted when you go from cruising to tromping on it.[/*][*]The powertrain transitions are mostly smooth, though occasionally harsh.[/*][/list]I'd much rather go electric or pure ICE I hate herky-jerky hybrid drivetrains.The list of cons is pretty damning for a new vehicle. Who is buying these things?
  • Jrhurren Nissan is in a sad state of affairs. Even the Z mentioned, nice though it is, will get passed over 3 times by better vehicles in the category. And that’s pretty much the story of Nissan right now. Zero of their vehicles are competitive in the segment. The only people I know who drive them are company cars that were “take it or leave it”.
  • Jrhurren I rented a RAV for a 12 day vacation with lots of driving. I walked away from the experience pretty unimpressed. Count me in with Team Honda. Never had a bad one yet
  • ToolGuy I don't deserve a vehicle like this.
  • SCE to AUX I see a new Murano to replace the low-volume Murano, and a new trim level for the Rogue. Yawn.
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