The 2016 Lexus RX, a fourth-generation mid-size luxury SUX, will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show on April 1. Ahead of the vehicle’s debut, Lexus has published an image previewing just what the car is going to look like.
The RX has been redesigned and is expected to feature a wheelbase that is slightly longer than those seen in the outgoing model. Another change is the bigger cargo section after the C-pillar which gives rear-seat passengers more legroom. The exterior of the RX looks to be a toned-down version of the NX crossover, which is a smaller vehicle that debuted a couple of months ago.
Introduced in 1997, the Lexus RX showcased a different side to what was customary for midsize SUVs. The first generation RX’s were made primarily for n-road use and had driving characteristics of luxury sedans combined with the expensive interiors of Lexus sedans. The Lexus was offered as a Toyota Harrier in other markets but the RX was marketed as a premium vehicle that beat other luxury SUVs in terms of price.
The current version of the RX, which has been on sale since 2008, still retains the look and proportions of the vehicle released in 1997. Now outgoing, it was offered to customers with a choice of inline-four and V6 engines, including a hybrid version. Most of the examples made for the US market were assembled in Canada.
Although Toyota hasn’t confirmed powertrain options for the US market, it is expected that a V6 and a hybrid version of the Lexus RX – a popular SUV at that – will be available. Other markets are expected to get a slightly different mix of engines which includes an inline-four. The New York Auto Show is the concluding spring auto show event and will be held at the Jacob Javits Center.
