Lexus Reveals Three-Row 2018 RX 350L and RX 450hL

Posted by Kevin on November 29th, 2017

Lexus has just debuted the 2019 three-row Lexus RX L at the Los Angeles Auto Show, so let’s get right to this massive new press release.

Families will now be able to enjoy more space with their luxury utility vehicle thanks to the new three-row Lexus RX L models. The RX created the luxury crossover segment 20 years ago and has reigned supreme as the most popular luxury utility vehicle on the market. The 2018 RX 350L and RX 450hL models retain their stylish figures, but now offer the choice of six or seven-passenger capability.

Lexus RX L Rear

Once in dealerships late this year, the RX 350L will have a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $47,670* (FWD) and $49,070* (AWD).

Function and Fashion

With the new RX L models, Lexus drivers will now have the option of a third row without compromising the sleek styling and easy maneuverability that they have long valued. With help through the mastery of vehicle packaging, Lexus extended the body length 4.3 inches (110 mm) at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle than on the two-row models – ensuring good headroom for third-row passengers.

Lexus RX Tail

The standard seven-seat version uses a 40/20/40 split bench-type second row seat. Access to the third row is made easy with the touch of a lever that slides and folds the second seat forward. The available six-seat configuration features second-row captain’s chairs that make third-row ingress/egress easier with “walk-in” convenience.

Lexus designed the third row of the RX L models to offer the same comfort and luxury as in the middle row. The positioning of the second row is slightly higher than the third row, creating more foot room for rear passengers. Standard leather-trimmed upholstery is standard for the first and second rows, in the choice of Black, Stratus Gray, Parchment or Noble Brown.

Lexus RX L Rear Seats

A tri-zone climate control system gives third-row passengers separate heating and air conditioning vents, and for convenience, a power-folding third-row seat and power tailgate are both standard on the RX L models.

Details that enhance three-row versatility in the RX L models include a flat load floor behind the folded third-row, two third-row cupholders, an easily stowable tonneau and covered slide rails.

Lexus Signature Design

The 2018 RX L models offer the same award-winning safety, style, luxury and performance as the two-row versions. The LUV trend-setting combination of SUV versatility and luxury sedan-like comfort comes packaged in the brand’s dramatic mix of sharp creases and curves. The Lexus signature spindle grille, a focal point, is set off by an elegant chrome-plated surround and standard Bi-LED headlights. Available premium LED headlights use three unique L-shaped elements per side.

Lexus RX Spindle Grille

The RX L models’ elegantly blacked-out C-pillars create a floating-roof effect. The spindle theme repeats at the rear, with L-shaped LED taillights enveloping the tailgate and wrapping into the rear fenders. Available 20-inch wheel designs enhance the powerful-looking stance. All ten RX L paint colors feature a scratch-resistant self-restoring coat, using a high-performance macromolecular polymer.

Lexus Safety

In the 2018 RX L models, the full-length side curtain airbags cover all three rows. The standard Lexus Safety System+ includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent High Beams and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking are also available. Panoramic View Monitor is an optional feature.

RX 350L: 290-Horsepower V6

The 2018 Lexus RX 350L offers plenty of power to go with its six- or seven- passenger cabin and added cargo capacity. The 3.5-liter V6 employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, which combines direct and port fuel injection systems. To maximize efficiency, Variable Valve Timing – Intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) is used on the intake camshaft, along with VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft, allowing the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles.

The result is 290 hp and 263 lb.-ft. of torque, with performance and efficiency optimized by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Use of regular-grade gasoline is a boon to customer value. Using Drive Mode Select, the RX 350L driver can exert more control by choosing from among three driving modes. Normal provides an ideal everyday balance of performance and energy conservation, Sport puts an edge on powertrain responsiveness and Eco mode operates the powertrain at its most efficient level.

Lexus RX Tires

As on the two-row RX 350, the RX 350L is available with front-wheel drive or available Dynamic Torque Control All Wheel Drive. Under normal cruising conditions, the system engages front-wheel drive to help reduce fuel consumption.

Continuously taking input from various sensors (such as wheel speed, engine RPM, steering angle, throttle opening angle and yaw rate), Dynamic Torque Control AWD actively governs torque distribution to the rear wheels using an electromagnetically controlled coupling in the rear differential. When the vehicle is accelerating, the system automatically shifts to AWD to help prevent front-wheel slippage. While cruising, the system reverts to FWD, and when sensors detect wheel slippage, it can vary front to rear torque distribution from 100:0 to 50:50. The 4.2” TFT multi-information display conveys torque-distribution status (front to rear, and side to side).

RX 450hL Hybrid with AWD

Luxury buyers seeking an eco-advanced family three-row vehicle will find the ideal travel mate in the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S injection 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators, producing 308 combined system horsepower for strong acceleration and passing performance.

The standard AWD system is unique. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels used on the RX 350 AWD models, an independent rear-mounted electric motor drives the rear wheels when needed to help maintain optimal traction.

In the RX 450hL, the Drive Mode Select system adds a fourth mode, EV, that enables the vehicle to drive under electric power at lower speeds for short distances. It’s an excellent way to navigate a large parking lot or garage, or to run a local errand.

Ride and Handling

All onboard the 6- or 7-passenger 2018 Lexus RX L models will experience the same luxuriously smooth, quiet ride as the two-row models offer. Front strut and rear double-wishbone type suspension systems ensure agility and exemplary ride compliance over all types of surfaces. Electric Power Steering (EPS) yields a light and comfortable steering feel with excellent feedback.

Lexus RX Tail 2

Impeccable Cabin Design and Luxury

The RX L cabin is designed with impeccable details, including form-fitting seats, and the available richly finished wood trim (Premium and Luxury Packages) that curves gently up from the center console toward the glove box.

Lexus RX Interior

Available interior ornamentation includes Matte Bamboo, Espresso Walnut, Matte Linear Dark Mocha Wood, Striated Black Trim (standard) and laser-etched Gray Sapele Wood with Aluminum. For the Striated Black Trim on the base model, a glossy black three-dimensional embossed pattern is applied to create a high-quality film design with a sense of depth.

An available full-color Heads-Up Display (HUD) incorporated into the design of the instrument panel can project key information on the windshield to help the driver focus on the road.

Multimedia Powerhouse

From powerful audio to cutting-edge displays, the multimedia choices available for the 2018 Lexus RX L models cover all needs. The standard Display Audio system includes an eight-inch screen, HD Radio™, Scout GPS Link, Bluetooth® audio, voice recognition, an AUX mini jack, two USB ports and nine speakers. The driver will find frequently used switches placed close at hand for convenience. Middle-row USB ports enable passengers to use and charge their own multimedia devices.

The Navigation Package upgrades to a 12-speaker premium audio system. Also included, the 12.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display offers a full-screen navigation map or can provide simultaneous access to audio or climate controls and various systems; as well as the mouse-like Remote Touch Interface.

Lexus RX L Interior Rear

The 2018 RX L models offer audiophile-quality mobile sound with the available 835-watt, 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System in conjunction with the navigation system. Advanced Clari-Fi™ compressed music restoration technology instills new life into digital music files.

The new three-row RX L models join the two-row, five-seat RX versions that continue for 2018. All RX models now offer Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect complimentary for the first 10 years of vehicle ownership. Both were previously offered with a one-year trial.

With the new RX 450hL Hybrid, the most powerful and most fuel-efficient RX model, owners will still reap the benefits of the two-row model, such as optional heated/ventilated front seats and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Additional photos and video available at pressroom.lexus.com.

Vehicle Details

RX 350L:

  • 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • 8-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i).
  • Available Active Torque Control AWD system uses an electronically controlled coupling ahead of the rear differential to vary torque distribution anywhere from 100:0 to 50:50 front to rear, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions.

RX 450hL:

  • Lexus Hybrid Drive with 3.5-liter V6 engine, Motor Generator 1, Motor Generator 2 and a planetary-type electronic continuously variable transmission.
  • 308 total system horsepower.
  • Standard AWD with independent rear electric motor-generator.
  • 37 kW nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) hybrid battery.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/ Brakes/Tires

  • A number of cutting-edge technologies enhance structural rigidity, including high-tech body adhesives and laser screw welding; liberal use of high-tensile strength steel throughout the vehicle, and annular frame construction for strengthened frame sections around the front and rear doors.
  • 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/65R18 tires.
  • Two 20-inch wheel options: Split-Five-Spoke Alloy Wheels with Dark Silver and Machined Finish; Split-Five-Spoke Alloy Wheels with SuperChrome and Machined Finish and Interchangeable Painted Inserts (requires Luxury Package).

Safety/Security

  • Lexus Safety System+ includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent High Beams and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
  • Available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Braking.
  • For 2018, all RX and RX L models offer Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect complimentary for the first 10 years of vehicle ownership.
  • 10 SRS airbags including dual-stage and dual-chamber driver’s and front passenger airbags; driver’s and front passenger knee airbags; front side airbags; rear side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags for all three seat rows.
  • 4-sensor, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill-start Assist Control.
  • Additionally, Smart Stop Technology automatically reduces engine power when there is simultaneous application of the brake pedal and accelerator pedal under certain conditions.
  • Active front headrests help to reduce the severity of a whiplash injury in the event of certain types of lower speed rear collisions.
  • Panoramic View Monitor (optional).

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience (Highlights)

  • 10-way power front leather seats with power lumbar adjustment.
  • Memory settings standard (mirror, seat, steering wheel)
  • Aluminum roof rails
  • Power-folding autodimming mirrors with memory
  • Rear armrest with storage box with two USB ports
  • Acoustic glass windshield
  • Customizable vehicle settings, including personal door-lock preferences, interior/exterior light adjustments, driver’s seat Easy Exit, and window-closure settings
  • Tri-Zone automatic climate control with interior air filter
  • Leather seating surfaces (first and second row)
  • Leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel with integrated audio controls
  • Lexus Display Audio with 8-inch color multimedia display and 9 speakers
  • Power liftgate with optional hands-free operation
  • Power tilt-and-telescopic steering column
  • SmartAccess with push-button Start/Stop
  • Subscription-free Traffic and Weather updates via HD Radio™

The RX 450hL enjoys the same standard equipment as the 350L, with the added feature of Captain’s Chairs as standard.

Luxury Options (Highlights)

  • Premium Package with moonroof and wood trim.
  • Luxury Package includes contents of Premium Package plus 20-inch super chrome wheels, heated maple steering wheel, semi-aniline leather trimmed seating, manual rear door sun shades, LED ambient illumination, four-way power lumbar, cushion extender, laser-cut gray Sapele wood with aluminum and LED illuminated door sills.
  • Navigation Package with 12.3-inch display, Remote Touch Interface, advanced voice control, Lexus Enform® App Suite, Lexus Enform® Destination Assist, HD Radio with iTunes® Tagging and more.
  • 15-speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound system (with Navigation Package).

Connected Technologies

The 2018 Lexus RX L offers five available Enform services for enhanced convenience:

  • Complimentary now for the first ten years, Lexus Enform Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Notification. The Lexus Enform response center operates 24/7/365.
  • Lexus Enform Service Connect (complimentary 10-year subscription now included), enables the LS to send alerts for specific factory recommended maintenance, simultaneously alerting a preferred Lexus retailer.
  • With Lexus Enform Remote (one-year trial subscription included), the customer can remotely view and control certain aspects of the vehicle using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Once registered, the app can operate remote door lock/unlock; remote stop/start for the engine and climate control; vehicle finder, guest driver monitor, and more.
  • The complimentary Lexus Enform App Suite app offer access to favorite mobile applications through the vehicle’s center console display, including Pandora®, iHeartRadio, Slacker and Yelp (with Navigation Package).
  • Lexus Enform Destination Assist (complimentary for one year) acts as an in-car personal concierge, providing directions and destinations delivered by a live agent (with Navigation Package).

MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $995.

FeaturesLexus RX: Fourth Generation
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Comments
Gecko
maiaramdan
I wish if Lexus postponed it totally till the next generation RX
This is pure definition of mess
I agree... this seems like a disaster and Lexus is trying really hard to make this solution work. There are a lot of things about this that seem strange to me... floating C pillar, large front overhang, huge rear overhang, and based on pics... the third row looks almost unusable.

How does this look so wrong when the Highlander gets it so right?

mikeavelli
The thing is it doesn't matter what it looks like. Look at all these SUVs people buy them no matter what. It might not be a looker but it is going to sell and its going to hit the Enclave/MDX/QX60 immediately. It will also hit the GX as well.

I assume the seats will fold flat. I'm really curious how this is going to work as the RX is a ton bigger than in the past but doesn't feel super roomy inside.

Gecko
I agree... this seems like a disaster and Lexus is trying really hard to make this solution work. There are a lot of things about this that seem strange to me... floating C pillar, large front overhang, huge rear overhang, and based on pics... the third row looks almost unusable.

How does this look so wrong when the Highlander gets it so right?
If I recall correctly this was was the last generation wasn't stretched either. The RX swooping rear makes it hard to turn into a 3rd row. The Highlander and the competition are built to be more boxy and vanlike. I still am impressed with the room in the QX60 third row for example.
L
Proportions look very good. But I think Subaru Ascent will be best in class with best AWD system.
Yuan
The RXL still looks miles better than its competitors in the price range, keep in mind the RX is essentially a FWD car of course it will have long overhangs. People don't buy the third role to seat people, it's more of an extra feature that people like to have on their SUV. BIGGER = BETTER for potential buyers
Michael
Is the US spec Lexus RXL still going to be made in Canada or is it still going to be made in Japan?
Joaquin Ruhi
Michael
Is the US spec Lexus RXL still going to be made in Canada or is it still going to be made in Japan?
An excellent question. My best guess is that it will be built primarily if not exclusively in Canada, but I could be wrong. The answer will probably come during its unveiling, most likely at the Tokyo Motor Show in late October.
Michael
I hope the new long wheelbase RX is made in Canada or in the Toyota's Indiana plant where Toyota manufacture the Highlander.
CIF
  • CIF
    CIF
  • August 23, 2017
Seriously though, is this some kind of joke? The rear area looks only a tiny bit bigger than the current model. So essentially most of the cargo room will now be taken up by a tiny 3rd row while leaving almost no actual usable cargo room? This is the worst of both worlds. I understand that dealers and customers have been pleading with Lexus for many years now for a CUV with a proper 3rd row. I understand the time pressure Lexus is under. This does not look like a proper 3rd row at all.

There's too many doubts and what look like compromises with this thing so far. Could they not have stretched the K platform any further? Is this the max it can go? Would it have been too expensive to further stretch? Is there a point in releasing this RX L in the coming year, versus waiting a few more years and just designing it properly on a TNGA platform? If engines are going to be the same, that won't be enough for this bigger, heavier RX.

I just don't get it.

krew
NO IT'S AMAZING.

LOOK AT THAT APPROACH ANGLE.
Lol good one krew :D.
Joaquin Ruhi
CIF
...Could they not have stretched the K platform any further? Is this the max it can go? Would it have been too expensive to further stretch? Is there a point in releasing this RX L in the coming year, versus waiting a few more years and just designing it properly on a TNGA platform? If engines are going to be the same, that won't be enough for this bigger, heavier RX.
The longest-wheelbase version of the K platform is the current Toyota Sienna minivan, with a wheelbase 9.5" longer than the current RX and Highlander. So, yes, they could've stretched it if they'd wanted to. And, being blunt, I won't disagree that the RX L appears to have been a rushed, half-assed effort done as cheaply and expediently as possible to satisfy the clamor of U.S. Lexus dealers crying out for a crossover SUV with a third row seat at least marginally roomier and more comfortable than that in the body-on-frame GX.
CIF
  • CIF
    CIF
  • August 23, 2017
Joaquin Ruhi
The longest-wheelbase version of the K platform is the current Toyota Sienna minivan, with a wheelbase 9.5" longer than the current RX and Highlander. So, yes, they could've stretched it if they'd wanted to. And, being blunt, I won't disagree that the RX L appears to have been a rushed, half-assed effort done as cheaply and expediently as possible to satisfy the clamor of U.S. Lexus dealers crying out for a crossover SUV with a third row seat at least marginally roomier and more comfortable than that in the body-on-frame GX.
Thanks, I forgot that the Sienna wheelbase was that much longer than the RX and Highlander. So yes then that seals it. From the photos, the wheelbase does look smaller than the Sienna. So this only reinforces the suspicion that this is a weak, rushed effort from Lexus.
C
Guys, I'm not getting all the speculative concern on the RX L when we have little information and of course no automotive reviews.

At this time, my impression is positive in that it looks to be about 7-8 inches stretched at the rear while still retaining most of it's signature sloped rear design to meet some form of 3-row needs. MDX, QX60, and Q7 are boxier in design and may have slightly roomier rears but when has that stopped the current 2-row RX buyers from being the best seller among 2-row boxier-cargo competitors? The competition has lots to worry about. :p :thumbsup:
Gecko
Keep in mind that we should have had a new GX this year for 2018. Point being, Lexus had plenty of time to perfect the formula of a roomy three row midsize vehicle and they simply failed. Even if the GX went over to a FWD TNGA platform (WORST CASE SCENARIO EVER AND I AM NOT ADVOCATING FOR THIS), or a RWD GA-L platform, or stayed BOF, Lexus had better options than what we see here in pics. They just chose to take the easy way out.

At a bare minimum, they could have massively overhauled the GX with a standard V6, updated V8, updated exterior styling, changed the dashboard and dropped the price point a bit further and that would have probably been a better solution than "RX L." Even if the GX died off in the future, this solution would have bought Lexus time to engineer a better RX/RX L on TNGA for ~2021 or so.

I found an early design sketch of the RX L:

CIF
  • CIF
    CIF
  • August 24, 2017
corradoMR2
Guys, I'm not getting all the speculative concern on the RX L when we have little information and of course no automotive reviews.

At this time, my impression is positive in that it looks to be about 7-8 inches stretched at the rear while still retaining most of it's signature sloped rear design to meet some form of 3-row needs. MDX, QX60, and Q7 are boxier in design and may have slightly roomier rears but when has that stopped the current 2-row RX buyers from being the best seller among 2-row boxier-cargo competitors? The competition has lots to worry about. :p :thumbsup:
I wish I could be as optimistic as you in this case.

The RX is rather unique in that it is "right sized" for many people. It is larger than the typical 2-row competitors in class, but it is smaller than the 3-row competitors in class. So why is the RX considered right-sized? It is because it can seat 5 people fairly comfortably, and while still having a decent amount of cargo space in the back. Other 2-row competitors typically have smaller cargo room in the back. Lexus from the beginning had a great formula with the RX and never wavered. Lexus is the pioneer, as they created the luxury crossover segment with the RX.

So now let's look at this coming RX L. Let's say it has been stretched about 7-8 inches based off photos, which seems reasonable. Based on spy shots and rumors, the rear will be less sloped than a regular RX, but still somewhat sloped. There is no way Lexus is going to make a completely boxy rear on the RX L as that will clash style-wise with the rest of the vehicle. The RX is about 8 inches shorter than the Q7, and QX60. It is about 4 inches shorter than the MDX. Also importantly, it is about 10 inches shorter than the GLS. Some consider the GLS to be the top dog in terms of 3-row luxury crossovers. It is priced much, much higher than the RX. Price-wise it sits neatly between the GX and LX, and it outsells the GX and LX combined in the USA. Then you have the oddball X5, which I don't include in this comparison. It is about the same length as the RX, but RWD based, more performance-oriented, and an optional 3rd row is available. The Q7, QX60, and GLS are also taller than the RX, the GLS significantly so. The MDX is about the same height.

So arguably the main competitors to the RX and RX L which include the MDX, QX60, Q7 and GLS are anywhere from 4-10 inches longer. However they are all much more boxy in styling, and also importantly they are all much wider than the RX. That adds to both passenger comfort and cargo area. The RX is quite narrow in terms of width. Not to mention the 3-row competition being taller than the RX, with the exception of the MDX.

I am not focusing on 2-row competitors, since they are irrelevant to this coming RX L.

I have spent lots of time in the 4RX both as a driver and passenger. It's comfortable from a space standpoint, but to echo mikeavelli's post, the 4RX is quite large compared to the 1RX, yet it doesn't feel super roomy inside. The 4RX feels roomy enough, and cozy, but not super roomy. Part of that is the very edgy styling, and part of that is the narrow width.

So does the competition have lots to worry about? Of course, the RX is hands down the pioneering top dog in overall luxury crossover sales. Also in this current market just about any crossover sells. Is that though the standard that Lexus should aim for and aspire to? A bare minimum rush job that meets "some form" of 3rd row needs? Certainly I feel that would be a borderline embarrassing standard for Lexus to aspire to. Also given the legacy, heritage, and reputation of the RX, my expectations of an RX L would be that it be "right sized" just like the regular RX. That means having enough space for 3rd row passengers *and* still having some decent cargo room. That means a length or wheelbase increase of 7-8 inches is not enough. Given how narrow the 4RX is, at minimum I personally feel a 10 inch wheelbase increase would be needed, and a 12-15 inch interior length increase as a bare minimum. Given that the 4RX has very edgy/swoopy styling compared to the competition, the same sort of length and wheelbase the competitors have can't really be applied to the 4RX.

Ideally though, what Lexus should be doing is making a proper RX L on TNGA. That includes making the RX much wider than it currently is, and giving the RX L a long enough wheelbase so that large overhangs do not become a big problem. Not only are large overhangs a problem stylistically, but also practically. Larger overhangs make it more of a hassle in day-to-day situations, including with approach and departure angles and a more boaty feel due to more weight at the 4 corners. The 4RX is great as-is for a 2-row crossover, but I feel it is a bad starting point for a 3-row crossover. The wheelbase, the various proportions and dimensions I feel just aren't suited for a proper 3-row crossover. We can see from the latest spy shots how tight that 3rd row area looks.

Technically the current K platform can support a much longer wheelbase, width, and height when looking at the Sienna's dimensions. The Sienna however is very boxy and square, and the Sienna has a lower ground clearance than the 4RX. Also that would require a complete redesign of the current 4RX to get to Sienna dimensions.

So in summation, I feel this coming RX L will not be "right sized" for 3 rows due to the above points, unlike the current regular RX being right sized for 2 rows.
bogglo
Am not into SUV. but just another way of looking at it.

The RX should be up for redesign in 2021. so it won't make any sense for them to put all that money to produce a LWB RX from ground up just to redesign it again in 2-3 years.

Also, some of us are wondering how this would affect the GX (ES and GS dilemma) so its only reasonable to give it a trial and see how people accept it.

just my .2
CIF
  • CIF
    CIF
  • August 24, 2017
bogglo
Am not into SUV. but just another way of looking at it.

The RX should be up for redesign in 2021. so it won't make any sense for them to put all that money to produce a LWB RX from ground up just to redesign it again in 2-3 years.

Also, some of us are wondering how this would affect the GX (ES and GS dilemma) so its only reasonable to give it a trial and see how people accept it.

just my .2
One can argue why didn't an RX L debut with the 4RX in the first place? The fact that Lexus is bringing an RX L mid cycle into the 4RX product cycle tells me that they were dragging their feet. For a "trial run" it would have made more sense to debut the RX L with the 4RX in the first place. That would have given Lexus more time to directly gauge consumer reception to it, while having enough time to properly plan a next-gen RX L on TNGA. The fact that the RX is getting redesigned in 2-3 years means whatever consumer data they get from this 4RX L is meaningless, as the 5RX is deep in R&D and likely is not far off a design freeze.

To be fair, the GX serves a different purpose than the RX. It has much more tougher, boxier styling vs the sleeker styling of the RX. The GX price gap to the regular RX is also higher than the ES and GS price gap.

There were worries the NX was going to cut into RX sales. None of that happened.

The GS and ES case I feel is unique.
L

Land Cruiser Prado / GX (?) will 3rd facelift will be revealed in in October 2017. When we'll see first spyshots of new Land Cruiser /LX, we'll know we are about a year or two from sale. New Land Cruiser / LX is to remain BOF but with IFS and IRS. New Prado / GX (after) could remain BOF or might become unibody on new platform, RWD of FWD based. Remember the Pajero was BOF, but became unibody with independent suspension. It is the best non-BOF non SA (solid axle) off-road car, more than 10 years, no successor in sight, and still well selling. GX and LX are too similar, and RX to "cheap". RX should be unibody FWD-based AWD/PHEV AWD/RxEV AWD/BEV AWD, GX should be unibody RWD-based 4WD, and LX BOF RWD-based 4WD. 70 Series can remain the BOF SA workhorse, but with newer design. 70 Series but also all the other trucks are probably the biggest money makers for Toyota. It would be nice for them to return that money to loyal customer with some better products.
james_m300
it doesn't look half bad to me, but what's stupid is if it doesn't have the facelifted styling what do they plan on doing with the RX L when it's time for the facelifted model? this makes me think the RX is not getting too many changes because of so many people complaining about the facelifted IS and GS models (i like both), the CT and NX didn't change much either for 2018 so i can't imagine the RX is going to get a huge facelift
Joaquin Ruhi
james_m300
...what's stupid is if it doesn't have the facelifted styling, what do they plan on doing with the RX L when it's time for the facelifted model? This makes me think the RX is not getting too many changes because of so many people complaining about the facelifted IS and GS models (I like both), the CT and NX didn't change much, either ,for 2018, so I can't imagine the RX is going to get a huge facelift
This. The current 4th-gen, 2-row RX is due for its mid-life facelift sometime next year, for the 2019 model year. So is Lexus going to launch RX L with pre-facelift styling cues and features, offer it for a year or even less than that and then facelift it to align with "version 2" of the 4th-gen, 2-row RX? I highly doubt it.

My best guess: RX L will premiere from the get-go with all the "version 2" facelift styling features and upgrades (note that the RX L test mules are fully camoed). The 2018 model year for the 2-row regular RX will be shorter than 12 months, and its 2019 MY "version 2" facelift will go on sale sometime earlier than the traditional August/September 2018 timeframe, to better align with the RX L launch.
G
Joaquin Ruhi
...
My best guess: RX L will premiere from the get-go with all the "version 2" facelift styling features and upgrades (note that the RX L test mules are fully camoed). The 2018 model year for the 2-row regular RX will be shorter than 12 months, and its 2019 MY "version 2" facelift will go on sale sometime earlier than the traditional August/September 2018 timeframe, to better align with the RX L launch.
This is how I think as well. RX-L will carry the facelift of the 4Gen RX.

I also like thw idea that ".....GX should be unibody RWD-based 4WD".
krew
james_m300
it doesn't look half bad to me, but what's stupid is if it doesn't have the facelifted styling what do they plan on doing with the RX L when it's time for the facelifted model? this makes me think the RX is not getting too many changes because of so many people complaining about the facelifted IS and GS models (i like both), the CT and NX didn't change much either for 2018 so i can't imagine the RX is going to get a huge facelift
Joaquin Ruhi
My best guess: RX L will premiere from the get-go with all the "version 2" facelift styling features and upgrades (note that the RX L test mules are fully camoed). The 2018 model year for the 2-row regular RX will be shorter than 12 months, and its 2019 MY "version 2" facelift will go on sale sometime earlier than the traditional August/September 2018 timeframe, to better align with the RX L launch.
Yeah, putting out an RXL with the existing design and then changing it a year later strikes me as a surefire way to alienate consumers. What @Joaquin Ruhi proposes makes sense to me -- a short 2018 model year for the standard RX followed by a new RX/RXL early next year.
Joaquin Ruhi
Joaquin Ruhi
My best guess: RX L will premiere from the get-go with all the "version 2" facelift styling features and upgrades (note that the RX L test mules are fully camoed). The 2018 model year for the 2-row regular RX will be shorter than 12 months, and its 2019 MY "version 2" facelift will go on sale sometime earlier than the traditional August/September 2018 timeframe, to better align with the RX L launch.
Lexus actually has historical precedents for this. The mid-cycle facelift for the previous (3rd) generation RX was unveiled in March 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show, and that facelifted 2013 RX went on sale the following month. I clearly recall that the two following model years (2014 and 2015) were launched in May, as opposed to the usual August/September. Will history repeat?
Steve
It's all over town, announced in Europe for 2nd quarter 2018
Joaquin Ruhi
Steve
It's all over town, announced in Europe for 2nd quarter 2018
On the other hand, it seems that the rumored Tokyo Motor Show debut for RX L won't be happening. A Lexus Global Newsroom release
http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/en/detail/18910687/
speaks only in terms of Japanese debuts for the already-seen 5LS and CT and NX facelifts, plus a new concept car. Unless, of course, they roll out RX L as an "unexpected surprise". I wouldn't bet on it, though...

The next 3 stops on the "A-list" auto show circuit are Los Angeles (press conferences 29-30 November), Detroit (press conferences 14-16 January 2018) and Chicago (press conferences 8-9 February 2018). Any of these, I'd say, are the likeliest possibilities for the RX L debut, although Lexus has rarely if ever premiered anything in Chicago. These are followed by Geneva in late February/early March and New York on Holy Week/right before Easter. I wouldn't bet on those. Geneva is probably earmarked for UX, and New York for next-gen versions of the Lexus ES / Toyota Avalon fraternal twins.

Given recent trends, a Chinese debut for RX L is a possibility that shouldn't be discarded. Guangzhou (press conferences 16 November) and Beijing (press conferences 24 April 2018) are the two majors for 2017-2018.
bogglo
based on the LA autoshow website looks like both Lexus and Toyota would debut a vehicle. for Lexus I will agree that its the RX L. Since its nothin major just a longer wheelbase of the RX.
Joaquin Ruhi
bogglo
based on the LA autoshow website looks like both Lexus and Toyota would debut a vehicle. for Lexus I will agree that its the RX L. Since its nothin major just a longer wheelbase of the RX.
What gives you that impression? As of this writing, only Mini and Mitsubishi have said anything about their LA Auto Show plans, and the make-by-make press conference information isn't posted yet.
https://automobilityla.com/schedule/
bogglo
if you go to the LA auto show website under Lexus and Toyota it says north America debut. It did not specify which exact car like the mini and Mitsubishi did. Even Mercedes looks like they will debut a car also.
bogglo
Joaquin Ruhi
On the other hand, it seems that the rumored Tokyo Motor Show debut for RX L won't be happening. A Lexus Global Newsroom release
http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/en/detail/18910687/
speaks only in terms of Japanese debuts for the already-seen 5LS and CT and NX facelifts, plus a new concept car. Unless, of course, they roll out RX L as an "unexpected surprise". I wouldn't bet on it, though...

The next 3 stops on the "A-list" auto show circuit are Los Angeles (press conferences 29-30 November), Detroit (press conferences 14-16 January 2018) and Chicago (press conferences 8-9 February 2018). Any of these, I'd say, are the likeliest possibilities for the RX L debut, although Lexus has rarely if ever premiered anything in Chicago. These are followed by Geneva in late February/early March and New York on Holy Week/right before Easter. I wouldn't bet on those. Geneva is probably earmarked for UX, and New York for next-gen versions of the Lexus ES / Toyota Avalon fraternal twins.

Given recent trends, a Chinese debut for RX L is a possibility that shouldn't be discarded. Guangzhou (press conferences 16 November) and Beijing (press conferences 24 April 2018) are the two majors for 2017-2018.
I wonder which car the new concept car is for. GS?
Joaquin Ruhi
bogglo
if you go to the LA auto show website under Lexus and Toyota it says North America debut. It did not specify which exact car like the Mini and Mitsubishi did. Even Mercedes looks like they will debut a car also.
OK, I found what you were talking about:
https://laautoshow.com/exhibitor-list/

BMW will also be debuting something. I imagine the information in that section will be expanded as the Tokyo Show passes and carmakers start teasing their L.A. plans. Also, note that calling the Toyota and Lexus premieres North American debuts doesn't automatically mean something press conference-worthy. In Lexus' case, it may mean nothing more than the North American debut of whatever concept the marque unveils in Tokyo.
Joaquin Ruhi
bogglo
I wonder which car the new concept car is for. GS?
That's certainly a strong possibility. I guess that discussion is best left for the separate "Lexus concept car for Tokyo 2017 " thread, though:
https://lexusenthusiast.com/forums/...-tokyo-motor-show-this-month.3918/#post-29063
mmcartalk
Gecko
I found an early design sketch of the RX L:

Did you ever actually DRIVE one of those? : unamused: Its road manners would make a Suzuki Samurai look sophisticated in comparison. For one thing, look at the ultra-short wheelbase, tall stance, and long front/ rear overhangs...that means pitching back and forth like a rocking-horse. And don't even think about pushing it around a sharp curve. ;)

M