The new Lexus RX has arrived in South Africa, complete with new engine options. Here’s a look at the local range, including pricing…

On the hunt for a left-field luxury SUV alternative to the likes of the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE? Well, the new Lexus RX has made landfall in South Africa, with the local line-up comprising 4 derivatives at launch.

Revealed in mid-2022 in Japan, the 5th-generation RX rides on the Toyota-backed luxury brand’s latest GA-K platform, bringing both weight savings and added rigidity. While it’s the same length (4 890 mm) as its predecessor, the new version is 25 mm wider than before at 1 920 mm. It furthermore gains an extra 60 mm between its axles, taking the wheelbase to 2 850 mm.

So, to the local range. The fresh-faced line-up kicks off with the RX 350, which starts at R1 424000. The old naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine has been ditched in favour of a new turbocharged 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder unit, which delivers 205 kW and 430 Nm to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Next up is the Lexus RX 350h, starting from R1 458 300. This powertrain combines an atmospheric 2.5-litre 4-pot with hybrid components to generate a peak system power figure of 184 kW (Lexus doesn’t quote a torque figure for the hybrid element, though the petrol mill makes 239 Nm). Drive is sent to all 4 corners through a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the claimed consumption comes in at 5.4 litres per 100 km.

The RX 500h F Sport tops the new 4-strong range.

There’s also the RX 350 F Sport (R1 543 200), employing the same turbocharged 2.4-litre unit as the standard RX 350 but adding F Sport goodies inside and out. These include a striking body kit (and grille), black 21-inch alloy wheels and model-specific bolstered sports seats.

Finally, we have the new RX 500h F Sport. Retailing from R1 684 300, the flagship derivative combines the new 2.4-litre engine with the automaker’s hybrid system, resulting in a total peak power output of 273 kW (again, no maximum twisting force figure for the hybrid arrangement is listed, while the petrol engine delivers 460 Nm). Interestingly, this likewise all-paw variant uses a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The RX comes very well equipped, with items such as a powered tailgate, LED headlamps (with adaptive high beams), heated/ventilated seats (fore and aft), a heated steering wheel, 10 airbags, a panoramic sunroof, a digital rear-view mirror, adaptive cruise control, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, wireless smartphone charging and adaptive variable suspension all shipping standard.

How much does the Lexus RX cost in South Africa?

Lexus RX 350 – R1 424 000Lexus RX 350h – R1 458300Lexus RX 350 F Sport – R1 543200Lexus RX 500h F Sport – R1 684 300

A 7-year/105 000 km warranty and maintenance plan (with intervals of 12 months or 15 000 km) of the same length are included in the purchase price of all Lexus RX derivatives.

Buy a used Lexus RX on Cars.co.za.

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