By Paul Gover.
A lot is happening at Lexus as the showroom line-up is renewed and refreshed.
So it’s a good time to jump into something from Lexus – actually, two somethings – to see what’s been happening.
But, first, a spoiler.
Lexus is very big on hybrids and full electric models are soon to also cascade down the pipeline, but there are none for me this time.
Instead, the focus is on the RX350 with F Sport package, with an ES250 on the side.
It’s easy to dismiss the ES – and I will – with just a couple of words. It’s capable and comfortable, quiet and easy driving. But it has as much flavour as a glass of water, and most people just ignore four-door sedans in 2023.
So, on with the RX. It has a new body and new styling, with the promise of more space but still with a five-seater cabin despite being classified as a ‘large’ SUV.
It’s easiest to think of it as a Toyota RAV 4 with everything added and loaded. It’s a similar size and style, but far – truly far – more refined and luxurious.
Then again, it does cost $99,900 – before on-road costs.
For that big bag of bucks you get a mid-sized SUV – compared to a LandCruiser or Patrol – which is as refined as any passenger car, with a cosseting cabin and all the luxury niceties from punchy sound and leather seats to great aircon.
Finally, at at last, the RX also has an infotainment system with wireless connectivity and without the dreadful ‘haptic controller’ of earlier Lexus models. It’s now an easy touch screen system with a track pad too in the centre console.
The best thing about the RX, for me, is the cabin comfort. The seats are great and it feels like a four-seater lounge and lounger.
But it’s supposed to be a sporty RX, thanks to the F Sport package that includes 21-inch alloys and electronically adjustable suspension.
The new deal also means the previous V6 engine is gone, although – soundtrack apart – it has good power and torque with good economy for the class.
But it’s not sporty, with a ride that varies between pillow-soft and soft-and-floppy, depending on the suspension settings. I switched into the Lexus from a working-class Kia Sportage and it had vastly better suspension, both for ride control and cornering balance.
Will Lexus buyers care? Probably not. But the ones who go for an RX350 with F Sport, and not one of the hybrids, might be interested in the car’s shortcomings.
Otherwise, it’s a nice car which is nicely improved and – in the class and for the price – a decent thing.
LEXUS RX350 F Sport
Position: family tow machine
Price: from $99,900
Engine: 2.4-litre turbo petrol
Power: 205kW/430Nm
Transmission: 8-speed auto, all-wheel drive
Plus: plush, cosseting
Minus: bouncy ride
THE TICK: not for me
Score: 7/10
