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Saying Goodbye to the classic Lexus SUV with the F-Sport Twist
The luxury SUV sales leader Lexus RX showed glimpses of the future with the addition of the spindle grill during its 2013 MMC (mid model change) and the addition of the first F-Sport RX. The changes enhanced the RX making it more stylish than ever and in regards to the F-Sport, a bit sportier.
I've driven the third generation RX quite a bit over time, easily logging a couple of thousand miles in various ones. While in Atlanta for Christmas I decided to take my folks pristine 2015 RX F-Sport though its paces and to give the extremely popular third generation RX a proper send off.
I'll be completely honest there are no surprises here, even in F-Sport guise which is honestly a good thing. So don't expect me to write how the RX became a canyon carver with the F-Sport. It didn't. What it did was add subtle enhancements that in my opinion appealed mostly to two kinds of buyers;
1. Loyal RX Owners who wanted to stand out a bit from the crowd.
2. New Conquest Buyers who never really considered a RX before, including Lexus owners.
I will begin with the bodywork first. This might be the first extensive review of the RX exterior (lol).
Below is a standard non F-Sport RX. You can immediately note the differences between the first picture I posted of the RX F-Sport.
The biggest change is the much more aggressive front bumper on the F-Sport. Personally speaking I think it improves the looks 100 fold. The front end is much more aggressive with a full lower air dam that not just makes it meaner but visually lowers the RX. Also note the trademark F-Sport mesh replaces the horizontal slants.
For that that don't want the F-Sport but want the front bumper, later on it was offered as an option on the RX hybrid, something not many people know. I believe its a pretty easy swap as well for that want to change it on their own.
Of course note compared to the 2016 RX, the 2015 has the horizontal body colored bar in the middle separating the upper and lower grills. We know that going forward that is a thing of the past as the GS lost the middle bar too with its MMC.
No LED's here but full HID's with the trademark "swoosh" LED DRL. Note how the chrome grill does not frame entirely like on the LS. Note also the lower air vent in black.
Below is a shot with the headlight on and the DRL at low power.
At night time they are perfectly fine but they are not as good as the new LED lighting on newer Lexus models.
You can easily see how rounded the RX here is compared to the 2016 model. Personally I never was in love with the looks here but the 19" F-Sport wheels and again F-Sport bumper help quite a bit. I was surprised to see Dunlop Tires, they measure 235/35/19 front and rear. Time to get my folks some Vossen's lol. Note of course the customary F-Sport badge which are on both front fenders.
Below you can see one of the subtle Lexus design cues you have to notice to appreciate. The lower doors are stamped in a bit of course in a L shape and the nice chrome trim at the bottom spices things up a bit. Contrarily I wonder should F-Sport cars abandon all chrome trim or offer a "shadowline" option like BMW or Audi.
Here is another subtle Lexus design cue. Note the now trademark "dumbo ears" which most will simply call the "sideview mirror" with built in turn indicators which are very effective. Note the nice cut line that flows through both pieces and how they line up perfectly. The small window which does add to an airier feel. This is something the first generation and new fourth generation has as well. It was skipped on the second generation. Of course note the chrome trim framing the window and the turn signal indicator.
Here is the rear 3/4 view showing a very familiar site. The roof rack is painted silver, the nice red reflectors in the bumper break up what could be a large boring mass and the trademark "Altezzas" are still present for the rear lights which are LED. What is something I just noticed was the "spindle" grill in the rear. Not how the chrome surround and design feature around the rear license plate is framed like the front. Nice Lexus touch!
Nothing dramatic here but note the rear is flared just a bit and how sloping the rear is. For those that have seen the 2016, note how it has a rear shelf almost like a mini-trunk compared to this.
Beautiful detailing with the rear roof spoiler and I'm sure they saved a few bucks not painting the entire rear piece. Note the shark fin antenna as well.
Overall obviously the third generation RX exterior won't set hearts on fire but it was a solid safe design that has aged well. To me the only way to go is in F-Sport guise with the additional touches.
Interior
I'll begin with a photo from Lexus that showcases the beautiful optional Cabernet Interior.
View attachment 1128
To say how thrilled I am to see these red interior options being added to Lexus would be an understatement. For years so many people asked for this option and Lexus has answered. It wasn't initially an option on the 2013 RX F-Sport but I believe it was added in 2014/2015. Who would have thunk that the RX would offer a smoking hot red interior option!
Here you can see even the doors have red to them. Note also the lower compartment pulls out and holds a bottled water/beverage. There is a nice touch with the chrome framed tweeter in the door but there is a huge expanse of nothing in the door that Lexus improved greatly on with the 2016 model. I even prefer the detailing on the 2nd generation door.
Also note the aluminum F-Sport wheels with rubber dots to prevent slipping.
I still don't understand how people didn't rave much about how futuristic and stylish this interior was in reviews. There was nothing like it at all and dare I say BMW's after followed this very swooping dash. I still love the design of this interior. Knobs and buttons are few and easy to use and the remote touch is in the perfect place
Note the two water bottles in the cup holder which is COVERED with wood trim. Open cupholders are a pet peeve of mine, I just don't like them.
View attachment 1129
This picture above is an iPhone pic but something that I felt needed sharing. With the sunroof open the glare into the NAV screen was really bad. I couldn't read a thing. And overall the resolution seems very 1980s and the size just seems super small and cheap considering how large the housing is. I always thought the MMC would have a larger screen. Its great to know the 2016 model has the huge 12.3" screen as an option now.
The Lexus gauges are the usual very large and easy to read. I do wish the F-Sport had the lighting change to red like other F-Sport models (though they have the AVS selector to make that happen). While the new F-Sport models offer more customization and gauges, this still feels quite relevant.
As you can see my folks seemingly have an infatuation with water but it also shows one of the clever compartments of this generation RX. I think some call it the "purse" shelf which is a nice size open cutaway under the center console. I wish all vehicles offered this useful space.
The rear compartment is well done and sits 3 perfectly fine. Unfortunately I did not take pictures with the baby seat inside. The RX though does offer more room than in the NX review I did last year with more room for two adults to sit around a center positioned baby seat. Here you can see the fold down center compartment with room for more water (geez lol) and a nice sized armrest. Note the rear A/C vents but i feel that lower black area could offer an outlet or some additional storage/cupholders.
Also note in the rear doors there is more space for additional water bottles, a nice touch.
All RX seats more fore and aft and recline with a pull of that black handle. This comes in handy on long trips but you do lose a tiny bit of rear cargo space.
Random fun fact, I've been looking for my VIP Junction Produce Neck Pillows for ages, somehow it made its way in here lol.
As you can see there is very good room in the rear of the RX. We fit two carry ons, a small stroller, a mid size luggage bag and some other items with a bit of room to spare when we got picked up at the airport. The RX has always gotten the utility portion correct.
Since there seems to be a bit of controversy over the size difference between the 2015 vs 2016 I aim to do a comparison hopefully next month.
Another pet peeve of mine is the location of the USB port. In the RX its pretty easy to reach and connect to. Note the heated/cooled front seats.
I had to of course note the left side cupholder sadly missing on the 2016 RX. I think I speak for thousands when I say BRING IT BACK LEXUS! As a matter of fact, put it in more vehicles!
Engine/Performance
The 2015 RX F-Sport uses the extremely familiar 3.5 V-6 with a peak rating of 270hp and 248lbs of torque. This is the same rating as non F-Sport models and doesn't burn rubber so don't expect it to, even with the F-Sport badges. There also is no additional intakes into the cabin and at full throttle it sounds, well it just makes a sound. Most reviews clock 0-60 in high 6s low 7s so obviously around town the car handles its own but its now Cayenne Turbo.
The entire engine compartment is covered in plastic. It almost makes me think it hiding a secret or there is a pot of gold under there lol
MPG is rated at 18/26/ 21 vs the 18/24/20 rating of the regular RX. This is all due to the 8 speed automatic. I had no issues reaching the EPA claims.
For 2016 the RX gets dual VVTi and a horsepower bump but I think many of us are asking for a new engine. While its perfectly reliable it no longer leads in fuel economy or power.
The Drive
As I stated earlier don't expect any surprises. I pushed the RX very hard on familiar back roads with many corners and even in F-Sport guise it isn't to be confused with a BMW X5 or Cayenne. The F-Sport has a unique lateral performance damper system which the CT also has. Note that car isn't known for being a canyon carver either so I think some traditional beefier sway bars and braces would help tons. Overall when pressed it doesn't encourage you to go harder, it communicates for you to chill out. While the limits are greater than a standard RX, I think this is a bit more about show than go. Also note the Dunlop tires were not very good and I think just upgrading to better rubber would help a bit.
The good news is every RX F-Sport comes equipped with AWD standard which is on demand so in most cases the RX is driving mostly FWD unless the computers detect slippage and it kicks things in gear. You won't confuse this system at all with Audi's or even Acura's SH-AWD. Maybe the F-Sport should gain a LSD or dare I say it TVD option! Personally I never quite understood a SUV not AWD or 4WD so again its a big plus on the F-Sport.
More good news. The RX F-Sport comes with the bulletproof 8 speed automatic and gasp, paddle shifters! This also helps a tad with MPG and shifting is smooth as butter. Unfortunately its not programed anything like the RC F for example so downshifts and upshifts are really slow. Personally I almost dislike driving any car without paddle shifters so even driving around town I noticed I used them and I loved the fact they were there.
I've read so much about how harsh the RX F-Sport is and every time I drive one I don't really feel it. I only noticed how rough it was under the harshest road conditions which would rattle any car. Around town I felt the ride was fine. No its not compliant and a blend like say the GS F-Sport but that is a purposeful RWD sedan. The RX is still based off FWD architecture shared with quite a few vehicles.
Technology
Honestly not much to write here. This car is now over 6 years old having debuted as a 2010 model and there isn't anything amazing to write about. Like most Lexus vehicles, getting bluetooth to connect was very simple. My parents had a loaded Lexus HS before this vehicle and comment all the time how the RX lacks compared to that car in regards to technology. They are right.
The now familiar remote touch system was easy to use though again the screen is way to small and the resolution and graphics seem really bad compared to the competition.
Conclusion
The funny thing is my parents actually had a new 2014 RX in the same color with the black interior. They actually didn't like it much, felt it blended in with every other RX they saw and to this day I don't know why they bought that particular model. When they saw the RX F-Sport with the red interior, it was something they had to have thus traded in a 2014 for a 2015. I think this a perfect example of who the RX is aimed for, people that want the usual Lexus values but want to stand out a bit from the crowd. They might not be particularly interested in its modest upgraded capabilities but they are interested in the total package the F-Sport offers. I notice how much they comment on how rare it is to see a F-Sport to regular RX's and of course they love the cabernet leather.
Over 2 million RX's have been sold and its easy to see why. It has literally paved the way for all car based luxury SUVs and they all have taken something out of the RX playbook. The F-Sport was a welcome addition and the 2016 model really takes the RX to the next level in regards to luxury and refinement. The third generation RX was a sales powerhouse selling over 100,000 copies alone in the states so there is an ample used car market for them.
One thing reviews rarely mention is how easy it is to own a RX/Lexus. I think we take it for granted. The RX is most cases is as reliable as it comes with minimal needs for major work. The fit and finish is perfect. Materials used are from good to great. There is no headaches involved with owning a RX.
For those looking for a great used Lexus SUV, the 3rd generation RX really is tough to beat when you factor in the entire ease of ownership (my family has never had an issue with their 2014/2015 RX and if it was a recall it was handled perfectly). The model I recommend is the 2013-2015 F-Sport. With cabernet leather.
Thanks again to my folks (many of you know them) who were kind enough to let me drive the RX exactly how they don't drive it, aggressive. I also would like to thank the good folks at Hennessy Lexus of Gwinnett whom we buy our vehicles from in Atlanta. They have been like family to us, in particular Joe, Nuum and Frank!
Full Hi-Rez photos are here.
Mike Forsythe
The luxury SUV sales leader Lexus RX showed glimpses of the future with the addition of the spindle grill during its 2013 MMC (mid model change) and the addition of the first F-Sport RX. The changes enhanced the RX making it more stylish than ever and in regards to the F-Sport, a bit sportier.
I've driven the third generation RX quite a bit over time, easily logging a couple of thousand miles in various ones. While in Atlanta for Christmas I decided to take my folks pristine 2015 RX F-Sport though its paces and to give the extremely popular third generation RX a proper send off.
I'll be completely honest there are no surprises here, even in F-Sport guise which is honestly a good thing. So don't expect me to write how the RX became a canyon carver with the F-Sport. It didn't. What it did was add subtle enhancements that in my opinion appealed mostly to two kinds of buyers;
1. Loyal RX Owners who wanted to stand out a bit from the crowd.
2. New Conquest Buyers who never really considered a RX before, including Lexus owners.
I will begin with the bodywork first. This might be the first extensive review of the RX exterior (lol).
Below is a standard non F-Sport RX. You can immediately note the differences between the first picture I posted of the RX F-Sport.
The biggest change is the much more aggressive front bumper on the F-Sport. Personally speaking I think it improves the looks 100 fold. The front end is much more aggressive with a full lower air dam that not just makes it meaner but visually lowers the RX. Also note the trademark F-Sport mesh replaces the horizontal slants.
For that that don't want the F-Sport but want the front bumper, later on it was offered as an option on the RX hybrid, something not many people know. I believe its a pretty easy swap as well for that want to change it on their own.
Of course note compared to the 2016 RX, the 2015 has the horizontal body colored bar in the middle separating the upper and lower grills. We know that going forward that is a thing of the past as the GS lost the middle bar too with its MMC.
No LED's here but full HID's with the trademark "swoosh" LED DRL. Note how the chrome grill does not frame entirely like on the LS. Note also the lower air vent in black.
Below is a shot with the headlight on and the DRL at low power.
At night time they are perfectly fine but they are not as good as the new LED lighting on newer Lexus models.
You can easily see how rounded the RX here is compared to the 2016 model. Personally I never was in love with the looks here but the 19" F-Sport wheels and again F-Sport bumper help quite a bit. I was surprised to see Dunlop Tires, they measure 235/35/19 front and rear. Time to get my folks some Vossen's lol. Note of course the customary F-Sport badge which are on both front fenders.
Below you can see one of the subtle Lexus design cues you have to notice to appreciate. The lower doors are stamped in a bit of course in a L shape and the nice chrome trim at the bottom spices things up a bit. Contrarily I wonder should F-Sport cars abandon all chrome trim or offer a "shadowline" option like BMW or Audi.
Here is another subtle Lexus design cue. Note the now trademark "dumbo ears" which most will simply call the "sideview mirror" with built in turn indicators which are very effective. Note the nice cut line that flows through both pieces and how they line up perfectly. The small window which does add to an airier feel. This is something the first generation and new fourth generation has as well. It was skipped on the second generation. Of course note the chrome trim framing the window and the turn signal indicator.
Here is the rear 3/4 view showing a very familiar site. The roof rack is painted silver, the nice red reflectors in the bumper break up what could be a large boring mass and the trademark "Altezzas" are still present for the rear lights which are LED. What is something I just noticed was the "spindle" grill in the rear. Not how the chrome surround and design feature around the rear license plate is framed like the front. Nice Lexus touch!
Nothing dramatic here but note the rear is flared just a bit and how sloping the rear is. For those that have seen the 2016, note how it has a rear shelf almost like a mini-trunk compared to this.
Beautiful detailing with the rear roof spoiler and I'm sure they saved a few bucks not painting the entire rear piece. Note the shark fin antenna as well.
Overall obviously the third generation RX exterior won't set hearts on fire but it was a solid safe design that has aged well. To me the only way to go is in F-Sport guise with the additional touches.
Interior
I'll begin with a photo from Lexus that showcases the beautiful optional Cabernet Interior.
View attachment 1128
To say how thrilled I am to see these red interior options being added to Lexus would be an understatement. For years so many people asked for this option and Lexus has answered. It wasn't initially an option on the 2013 RX F-Sport but I believe it was added in 2014/2015. Who would have thunk that the RX would offer a smoking hot red interior option!
Here you can see even the doors have red to them. Note also the lower compartment pulls out and holds a bottled water/beverage. There is a nice touch with the chrome framed tweeter in the door but there is a huge expanse of nothing in the door that Lexus improved greatly on with the 2016 model. I even prefer the detailing on the 2nd generation door.
Also note the aluminum F-Sport wheels with rubber dots to prevent slipping.
I still don't understand how people didn't rave much about how futuristic and stylish this interior was in reviews. There was nothing like it at all and dare I say BMW's after followed this very swooping dash. I still love the design of this interior. Knobs and buttons are few and easy to use and the remote touch is in the perfect place
Note the two water bottles in the cup holder which is COVERED with wood trim. Open cupholders are a pet peeve of mine, I just don't like them.
View attachment 1129
This picture above is an iPhone pic but something that I felt needed sharing. With the sunroof open the glare into the NAV screen was really bad. I couldn't read a thing. And overall the resolution seems very 1980s and the size just seems super small and cheap considering how large the housing is. I always thought the MMC would have a larger screen. Its great to know the 2016 model has the huge 12.3" screen as an option now.
The Lexus gauges are the usual very large and easy to read. I do wish the F-Sport had the lighting change to red like other F-Sport models (though they have the AVS selector to make that happen). While the new F-Sport models offer more customization and gauges, this still feels quite relevant.
As you can see my folks seemingly have an infatuation with water but it also shows one of the clever compartments of this generation RX. I think some call it the "purse" shelf which is a nice size open cutaway under the center console. I wish all vehicles offered this useful space.
The rear compartment is well done and sits 3 perfectly fine. Unfortunately I did not take pictures with the baby seat inside. The RX though does offer more room than in the NX review I did last year with more room for two adults to sit around a center positioned baby seat. Here you can see the fold down center compartment with room for more water (geez lol) and a nice sized armrest. Note the rear A/C vents but i feel that lower black area could offer an outlet or some additional storage/cupholders.
Also note in the rear doors there is more space for additional water bottles, a nice touch.
All RX seats more fore and aft and recline with a pull of that black handle. This comes in handy on long trips but you do lose a tiny bit of rear cargo space.
Random fun fact, I've been looking for my VIP Junction Produce Neck Pillows for ages, somehow it made its way in here lol.
As you can see there is very good room in the rear of the RX. We fit two carry ons, a small stroller, a mid size luggage bag and some other items with a bit of room to spare when we got picked up at the airport. The RX has always gotten the utility portion correct.
Since there seems to be a bit of controversy over the size difference between the 2015 vs 2016 I aim to do a comparison hopefully next month.
Another pet peeve of mine is the location of the USB port. In the RX its pretty easy to reach and connect to. Note the heated/cooled front seats.
I had to of course note the left side cupholder sadly missing on the 2016 RX. I think I speak for thousands when I say BRING IT BACK LEXUS! As a matter of fact, put it in more vehicles!
Engine/Performance
The 2015 RX F-Sport uses the extremely familiar 3.5 V-6 with a peak rating of 270hp and 248lbs of torque. This is the same rating as non F-Sport models and doesn't burn rubber so don't expect it to, even with the F-Sport badges. There also is no additional intakes into the cabin and at full throttle it sounds, well it just makes a sound. Most reviews clock 0-60 in high 6s low 7s so obviously around town the car handles its own but its now Cayenne Turbo.
The entire engine compartment is covered in plastic. It almost makes me think it hiding a secret or there is a pot of gold under there lol
MPG is rated at 18/26/ 21 vs the 18/24/20 rating of the regular RX. This is all due to the 8 speed automatic. I had no issues reaching the EPA claims.
For 2016 the RX gets dual VVTi and a horsepower bump but I think many of us are asking for a new engine. While its perfectly reliable it no longer leads in fuel economy or power.
The Drive
As I stated earlier don't expect any surprises. I pushed the RX very hard on familiar back roads with many corners and even in F-Sport guise it isn't to be confused with a BMW X5 or Cayenne. The F-Sport has a unique lateral performance damper system which the CT also has. Note that car isn't known for being a canyon carver either so I think some traditional beefier sway bars and braces would help tons. Overall when pressed it doesn't encourage you to go harder, it communicates for you to chill out. While the limits are greater than a standard RX, I think this is a bit more about show than go. Also note the Dunlop tires were not very good and I think just upgrading to better rubber would help a bit.
The good news is every RX F-Sport comes equipped with AWD standard which is on demand so in most cases the RX is driving mostly FWD unless the computers detect slippage and it kicks things in gear. You won't confuse this system at all with Audi's or even Acura's SH-AWD. Maybe the F-Sport should gain a LSD or dare I say it TVD option! Personally I never quite understood a SUV not AWD or 4WD so again its a big plus on the F-Sport.
More good news. The RX F-Sport comes with the bulletproof 8 speed automatic and gasp, paddle shifters! This also helps a tad with MPG and shifting is smooth as butter. Unfortunately its not programed anything like the RC F for example so downshifts and upshifts are really slow. Personally I almost dislike driving any car without paddle shifters so even driving around town I noticed I used them and I loved the fact they were there.
I've read so much about how harsh the RX F-Sport is and every time I drive one I don't really feel it. I only noticed how rough it was under the harshest road conditions which would rattle any car. Around town I felt the ride was fine. No its not compliant and a blend like say the GS F-Sport but that is a purposeful RWD sedan. The RX is still based off FWD architecture shared with quite a few vehicles.
Technology
Honestly not much to write here. This car is now over 6 years old having debuted as a 2010 model and there isn't anything amazing to write about. Like most Lexus vehicles, getting bluetooth to connect was very simple. My parents had a loaded Lexus HS before this vehicle and comment all the time how the RX lacks compared to that car in regards to technology. They are right.
The now familiar remote touch system was easy to use though again the screen is way to small and the resolution and graphics seem really bad compared to the competition.
Conclusion
The funny thing is my parents actually had a new 2014 RX in the same color with the black interior. They actually didn't like it much, felt it blended in with every other RX they saw and to this day I don't know why they bought that particular model. When they saw the RX F-Sport with the red interior, it was something they had to have thus traded in a 2014 for a 2015. I think this a perfect example of who the RX is aimed for, people that want the usual Lexus values but want to stand out a bit from the crowd. They might not be particularly interested in its modest upgraded capabilities but they are interested in the total package the F-Sport offers. I notice how much they comment on how rare it is to see a F-Sport to regular RX's and of course they love the cabernet leather.
Over 2 million RX's have been sold and its easy to see why. It has literally paved the way for all car based luxury SUVs and they all have taken something out of the RX playbook. The F-Sport was a welcome addition and the 2016 model really takes the RX to the next level in regards to luxury and refinement. The third generation RX was a sales powerhouse selling over 100,000 copies alone in the states so there is an ample used car market for them.
One thing reviews rarely mention is how easy it is to own a RX/Lexus. I think we take it for granted. The RX is most cases is as reliable as it comes with minimal needs for major work. The fit and finish is perfect. Materials used are from good to great. There is no headaches involved with owning a RX.
For those looking for a great used Lexus SUV, the 3rd generation RX really is tough to beat when you factor in the entire ease of ownership (my family has never had an issue with their 2014/2015 RX and if it was a recall it was handled perfectly). The model I recommend is the 2013-2015 F-Sport. With cabernet leather.
Thanks again to my folks (many of you know them) who were kind enough to let me drive the RX exactly how they don't drive it, aggressive. I also would like to thank the good folks at Hennessy Lexus of Gwinnett whom we buy our vehicles from in Atlanta. They have been like family to us, in particular Joe, Nuum and Frank!
Full Hi-Rez photos are here.
Mike Forsythe
