Lexus' premium SUV, theRX, has received a few updates and we drove the newcomer at its local launch in George.

The RX is one of Lexus' most successful products –the Japanese premium brandhas sold in excess of 3 million of its premium SUV range. Now in its 4th generation, the RX has been subjected to a mild update and the changes are far more than skin deep.The range comprises 4 versions: the350 EX, 350 L EX (7-seats), 350 F-Sport and 450h. All Lexus RX derivatives feature all-wheel drive, as well as an automatic transmission.

The Lexus grille is big and bold, and we love it. Note the blue tinge around the Lexus logo, which signifies hybrid power.

What's new?

The updates to the RX are both cosmetic and technological. Thebodywork's subtly revised, but the best representation of the changes can be found in the new 350F-Sport, whichreally looks the part!When festooned in bold paintfinishes such as Heat Blue orWhite Nova (exclusive to F-Sport range and seen on performance models such as the IS-F), the 350 F-Sport endows the luxury SUV concept with a healthy dose of sporty attitude.

Granted, a family-oriented Lexus and "sporty attitude" is anunlikely pairing– the LCand RC F are different stories –but we think it works (besides, Audi, BMW, Jaguar andMercedes-Benzhave been emblazoning theirperformance divisions' nameson SUVmodels for years). To that end, the F-Sport derivative features striking 20-inch alloys and bumpers, a bold grille and black plating, while the cabin can be trimmed ingorgeous red leather.

The RX450h has a unique dashboard with the traditional rev counter replaced by a power meter.

It's under the sheet metal of the revised Lexus where you will find the most significant changes, however. The RX's fascia gains an updated infotainment screen, whichmeasures12.3 inches,has been positioned closer to the driver and incorporates touch functionality. In a significant development, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard;the RX is notably the first model in the Lexus family to sport this feature.

All Lexus models also now feature in-car wifi with 15 Gb of data, which can be topped up on the Vodacom network. The cabin also receives a mild nip and tuck, with 4 additional USB charging ports anda smartphone holder. The previous model introduceda wireless charging pad and we're happy to see it's still part of the extensive standard equipment list.

Mechanically, there are some mild changes such as a friction control device fitted to the front and rear shocks to improve theride quality; it's a bonus, really:the RX has always offered an exemplary smooth ride quality. The suspension has also seen changes to the front stabiliser bar and the lateral rigidity has been enhanced. The body structure has also been tweaked, with additional spot welds to enhance the ride comfort and handling.

There are 2 engines on offer:a petrol 3.5-litre V6 and 3.5-litre V6 hybrid. The former features an 8-speed automatic transmission and produces 221 kW and 370 Nm. The hybrid has the same naturally-aspirated motor, but, in combination with an electric motor, it puts out 230 kW. Interestingly, a torque figure is not given, but we'd figure there's well over 400 Nm. Lexus claims a sprint time of 7.7 seconds from 0 to 100 kph for its flagship.

The Lexus RX's build quality and finishes are excellent.

What is it like to drive?

We had the chance to drive the 350 F-Sport and 450h derivatives. Our prior experiences with the RX range haveleft us impressed with the Lexus' refinement and comfort levels. With our cellphones connected via Android Auto (to replace the traditional route guide), we headed off on some scenic roads from George to Oudtshoornvia the majestic Robinson Pass. Our first test unit was a White Nova RX350 F-Sport and as we hit the pass, we engage its sportiest mode to see if there was any fun to be had and to see if the suspension tweaks have made a huge difference.

In terms of dynamic ability, the350 F-Sport is sufficiently wieldy;its3.5-litre non-turbo V6 singsa lovely tune as you make the most of the willing and eager motor. You can actuate gear shifts using the steering-wheel paddles, but we preferred to leavethe vehicle's transmissionto its own devices. Speaking of steering, the revised RX's tiller still doesn't offer enough feel or directness to be classifiedas sporty, but that's acceptable in our eyes as mountain-pass carving is not what it was designed to do. The Japanese premium SUV'sbody does roll a bit if you pitch it sharply into fast corners.

You do lose some luggage space in the hybrid, but the additional features of this derivativeare likely to win over buyers.

The RX really excels, however, interms ofon-road refinement and cruising ability. When weswitched thedriving mode from Sport+ to Normal, the engine note settleddown and wecruised leisurely across the Karoo. The suspension does an outstanding job of soaking up road imperfections– all of which makes the RX one of the finestfamily vehicles for touring, especially when you consider most derivatives rideon large sporty alloy wheels. You can see that extensive attention to detail has been applied; evensomething as mundane as opening a window is completed in near silence.

Interior noise levels are remarkably low,but perversely, we madethe multi-speaker Mark Levinson system workovertime. Fitted as standard onhigher grades of the RX, the excellent in-car entertainment system effortlessly links with Android Auto streaming services such as Spotify. We're also exceptionally thankful for Android Auto/Apple Carplay functionality as the standard infotainment system is a touch frustratingand unintuitive to use. The cabin itself is practical, with plenty of spacesto place your phone, keys and other paraphernalia; all in all,it feels exceptionally well-made.

The hybrid RX450h derivative, meanwhile,additionally features electric assist and swaps out the 8-speed auto transmission for a CVT. The powertrain is optimised for economy and refinement in an urban environment, sodon't be surprised when the petrol engine suddenly goes quiet. Providing you don't accelerate too briskly, you can pull away in silence, with the electric motor doing all the work. It does lose some appeal on the open road, as the CVT bluntsresponsivenessand causes a bit of adrone, but the gearshift paddles do afforda modicumof driver engagement.

F-Sport trimbrings some visual punch to the Lexus RX range.

Summary

The perennially underrated Lexus RX continues to impress in most facets. Even with the aesthetic upgrade, the premium SUV's looks won't be to everyone's taste, but its standard equipment listis exceptional –there are no optional extras and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility brings it up to speed with modern connectivity requirements. Comfort and refinement (andafter-sales support) are its mainstrengths.

Should you buy one? Here's the thing:in the Premium SUV segment we're truly spoilt for choice – in fact, there are several seriously accomplished performers that can match the Lexus' abilities.We suspect that some rivals offer a touch more luggage space and are a bit more involving to drive, two factorsthatare critical in this segment. The hybrid derivative is unfortunately compromised because the battery pack takes out a sizeable chunk of the load-carrying ability, but the cabin is well-thought-out and there's still enough luggage spacefor 2 suitcases. We also reckon that turbodiesel-powered rivals may ultimately edge out the hybrid'sefficiency. It's tempting to opt for the hybrid given the projected fuel-saving/emissions benefits, but until the government subsidises green(er) cars, we'd rather stick with the perfectly accomplishedand refinedRX350, preferably in F-Sport trim.

Lexus RX Price in South Africa (November 2019)

The Lexus RX comes with a7-year/105 000 km warranty and full maintenance plan. The warranty on the RX450h battery is 8 years/195 000 km. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

RX350 EX R1 012 000

RX350 EX L R1 087 000

RX350 F-Sport R1 132 200

RX450h SE R1 315 800

Related content:

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2019) Launch Review

BMW X5 xDrive30d xLine (2019) Review

Best Premium SUVs in SA – #CarsAwards Finalists

Volvo XC90 D5 Inscription 6-Seater (2019) Review