Lexus RX 2016 Review

We love:

• Super smooth and quiet
• High spec at base level
• Hybrid alternative

Pain points:

• Spacesaver spare
• Fiddly entertainment system

Lexus RX 2016 review

Lexus is known for its lasting luxury finish, and the Lexus RX 2016 lives up to this expectation. It's still a mid-point between a luxury saloon and dedicated high off-road 4WD, just bigger and more powerful.

Exterior of the Lexus RX 2016

With unique styling, this SUV confidently strikes a pose as a crossover with a point of difference. It's not to everyone's tastes, but at least you won't lose it easily in the carpark. The front grille is enormous and potentially polarising.

With a longer wheelbase providing more interior space, this Lexus RX has been lifted without raising the roofline, resulting in a lower, more car-like profile.

Family SUV Lexus RX, image courtesy of Cars Guide.

The rear door is powered to make the opening as easy as waving a hand or elbow past the logo on the boot. Rain-sensing windscreen wipers and automatically heated exterior mirrors ensure that the driver's vision remains clear. LED headlights automatically turn on in low-light conditions, LED fog lights and running lights ensure that you'll be visible on the road.

Inside the Lexus RX 2016

Second and third rows have separate climate control and air vents, and front seats are both heated and cooled. The option of a panoramic glass roof brings light and space into the cabin. The seats are incredibly comfortable in any position, and the interior is elegant and tasteful with wood-like panels on the centre console and plenty of room for the rear passengers.

Drive centre, Lexus RX 2016, image courtesy of Cars Guide.

Once in motion, it's nearly silent inside. There's not as much cargo space as found in some of the German competitors, which is the compromise you make for the car-like comfort and styling of the unique Lexus RX.

Connectivity

A huge 12.3-inch high-definition display pumps sound out through the 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system. This sound system is really special, with technology that restores sound quality lost in compressed digital music stored on your smartphone or USB device.

Choose from DAB+ radio or Bluetooth audio streaming, and charge your Android phone wirelessly while you listen to the specialised charging pad.

The screen's navigation is via a Lexus touchpad controller, which is not as usable as some competitor systems.

What's it like to drive a Lexus RX 2016?

While the 'X' in Lexus RX stand for 'cross-country', the Japanese brand is referring to the fact that you can comfortably take the tarmac from Perth to Melbourne, rather than exploring the dirt roads of the Simpson Desert.

Active cruise control, sway control and pre-collision safety systems ensure the drive is serene, yet you'll still get from standing to 100 kilometres an hour in 7.7 seconds. Driving it feels more like a car than an SUV, which is what Lexus has been aiming for.

Driving smooth - Lexus RX 2016, image courtesy of Cars Guide.

It's not sporty, the steering feel is really light, but it's totally comfortable to drive. The only thing that's missing is a diesel option - if you want to maximise fuel economy, you'll have to opt for the hybrid plugin.

Towing capacity is 1,500 kilograms braked, which is enough for a sizeable trailer or caravan if you're using your RX for touring.

Who's the Lexus RX 2016 for?

This crossover is for anyone who appreciates something a little luxe and special. As well as being great value for money, the Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability, making this the ideal family car to transport and protect your family wherever you are going.

It's capable in most environments except for serious off-roading. With desirable ride height, inner tranquillity and comfort, you'll be putting your best wheel forward in the Lexus RX.

Feature Summary

Price: $79,880

Engine: 3.5L V6 front wheel or all-wheel drive

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

Wheels: 20-inch alloy with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres

Safety: 5 star ANCAP

Fuel: 12.2L/100km (or 5.6L/100km with the 230kW petrol-electric hybrid RX450h)

Emissions: 223g/km

AV and tech: 12.3-inch media screen

Seats: 5

Doors: 5

You can finance a Lexus RX 2017 from $400/week*, get a quick quote to find out exactly what it will cost to step up your style and comfort.

No time to shop around for your car? Just tell us exactly what you want, including the features and colour. We will find the vehicle to match and negotiate the best price for you.

*Over a 5-year loan term.