LEXUS RX DRIVERS NOW HAVE THE POWER OF THREE (ROWS)
South African families can now enjoy more space in the luxury RX SUV following the launch of new variants that offer the flexibility of three rows of seating.
The seven-seat RX "L" models, available with V6 petrol or hybrid powertrains, were developed to meet frequent requests from customers and dealers, the 2018 RX 350L and RX 450hL retain the model's sleek features while incorporating a power-fold third-row seat and three-zone climate control.
Lexus has extended the body length 110 mm at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle to ensure good headroom for the additional passengers and class-leading luggage-space length behind the third row. The 60/40 split-fold third row can accommodate both child seats and adults and is designed to offer the same comfort and luxury as in the middle row. It is positioned slightly lower than the second row, creating more foot room for rear passengers. Third-row passengers have the comfort and convenience of separate rear air-conditioning and dedicated vents as well as a pair of cupholders.
Details that enhance versatility include a flat load floor behind the folded third-row, an easily stowable tonneau and covered slide rails. Access to the third row is made easy with a one-touch lever that folds and slides the second seat forward. Second-row seating head and legroom are unchanged. The 2018 RX "L" models offer levels of safety, style, luxury and performance expected in this luxury Lexus SUV. A full range of airbags are standard, including full-length side curtain airbags that cover all three rows.
The 3.5-litre V6 engine in the Lexus RX 350L employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, which combines direct and port fuel injection systems. For maximum efficiency, variable valve timing with intelligence - wide (VVT iW) is used on the intake camshaft, along with VVT i on the exhaust camshaft, allowing the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles. The result is 216kw of power and 358nm of torque, with performance and efficiency optimised by an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The RX 350L features the Lexus Dynamic Torque Control AWD system that engages front-wheel drive under normal cruising conditions to help reduce fuel consumption. It uses an electronically controlled coupling ahead of the rear differential to send up to 50 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions.
Lexus RX L occupants will experience the same luxuriously smooth, quiet ride as the two-row models offer. Front strut and rear double-wishbone suspension systems ensure agility and exemplary ride compliance over all types of surfaces. Electric power steering yields a light and comfortable steering feel with excellent feedback. Elegantly blacked out C pillars create a floating-roof effect while 20-inch wheel designs enhance the powerful-looking stance.
The Lexus RX 350L EX is priced from R959 000.
FAQ
Q: What does the Lexus RX 350L cost in South Africa?
The Lexus RX 350L starts at around R1,250,000 in South Africa, while the hybrid RX 450hL will set you back approximately R1,450,000, making it a proper premium family hauler that costs more than most people's houses.
Q: Is the Lexus RX 350L worth buying?
The RX 350L is worth buying if you need seven seats wrapped in Japanese luxury and reliability, but only if you can stomach the hefty price tag and don't mind that the third row is better suited for kids than rugby players.
Q: How much space does the Lexus RX L have compared to the regular RX?
The RX L is 110mm longer than the standard RX, which translates to proper third-row seating and decent luggage space behind the last row, though you'll still be playing Tetris with the school bags on longer trips.
Q: What engine does the Lexus RX 350L have?
The RX 350L packs a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with Lexus's fancy D-4S fuel injection system that combines direct and port injection, delivering smooth power that's perfect for cruising from Sandton to the coast.
Q: Should I choose the RX 350L or RX 450hL?
Choose the RX 350L if you want to save R200,000 and don't mind slightly higher fuel consumption, but go for the RX 450hL hybrid if you're doing serious mileage and want to feel slightly better about your carbon footprint.
Should You Buy It?
The best seven-seat luxury SUV under R1,300,000 in South Africa is the Lexus RX 350L, and yes, you should absolutely buy one if you can afford it. At R1,250,000, it's not cheap, but you're getting bulletproof Lexus reliability, proper luxury for all seven passengers, and a badge that says you've made it without being too flashy about it. The extra 110mm length makes a real difference to third-row comfort, and unlike some German rivals, this thing will still be purring along perfectly when your kids are old enough to inherit it. Just make sure you've got a big enough garage, because this extended RX is a bit of a beast to park at the Woolies.
