The Lexus RX is the largest SUV Lexus sells in the UK and one of the best-selling and most recognisable models in the Japanese car maker’s canon. At least it was recognisable, because the latest RX is so radically different, you might think it’s a new model in the range. In fact, it has adopted Lexus’ sharp-edged new design language.

Those lines disguise the fact this is the biggest RX yet, with more interior room and practicality. It also still shuns diesel engines, so unlike all rivals like the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90, the Lexus is exclusively petrol or hybrid powered.

Performance

Under the bonnet is either a 2.0-litre four-cylinder or a 3.5-litre V6 fitted in the RX450h. We tested the latter, which is mated to a pair of electric motors and battery pack, boosting performance under acceleration and recharging as you drive.

With total power from both engines of 308bhp (up from 295bhp), acceleration from 0-62mph takes 7.7 seconds. That’s not too shabby, but the RX rarely feels as quick as this number suggests, mainly because of its CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) automatic gearbox. With no set gear ratios, the engine instead revs at peak efficiency while it feels like the rest of the car catches up.

Instead, the CVT makes for a very relaxed drive, with smooth acceleration devoid of pauses or jolts. Select EV mode - where only electric power is used - and the RX is even smoother and quieter, but performance is reduced, so it’s only really useful around town.

Ride and Handling

Strangely this is one SUV which feels most at home whispering along city streets.

There’s been a tendency for large SUVs like the Range Rover Sport and X5 to get sportier, with stiffer suspension and better handling. The RX isn’t such a car: it still exhibits some body roll in corners and has a fairly soft ride, making it better suited to sedate cruising rather than country blasts. In a similar vein, the steering doesn’t offer too much feedback, but on the flipside, the low-effort steering and supple suspension add up to a car which is very easy and quiet to drive around town. Strangely this is one SUV which feels most at home whispering along city streets.

Interior and Equipment

F Sport models feature a dark wood inlay with laser-etched detailing, a technique carried out by Yamaha craftsmen on concert pianos and guitars.

Step into the RX and it certainly has a high-end feel, with a distinct personality compared against rivals.  The driver’s space is clearly marked out by an angular dashboard, with instruments angled towards your field of vision, while the passenger’s side tapers away for additional space. The quilted seats prioritise comfort over support, but that goes hand-in-hand with the laid-back demeanour of the RX. Cloth seats come as standard with the S trim, while SE, Luxury, Premier and F Sport trims get leather of increasing quality. Characterful touches include an analogue clock, while the controls are mostly easy to find and use. A huge 12.3-inch display sits above the dashboard, but its mouse pointer is not as intuitive as the best rotary-dial systems and its graphics can be a bit hit and miss. Equipment levels are impressive, with parking sensors, climate control, DAB, sat-nav, Bluetooth, LED headlights and parking sensors fitted from the off, while heated and ventilated seats are fitted to all but the entry-level model. Lexus has also paid a lot of attention to the stereo, which is either a Pioneer system with nine or 12 speakers, or a Mark Levinson 15-speaker premium upgrade. This RX is the largest yet, with a 120mm increase in length allowing for more cabin room, but it’s still more compact than most of its rivals. With 453 litres of boot space, the almost coupe-like roofline limits luggage room, compared with the huge 770-litre boot of the Audi Q7. Unlike several of its seven-seat rivals, the RX is also a strict five-seater.

Cost

Official economy is rated at 53.3mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 120g/km

Like most luxury SUVs, the RX certainly isn’t cheap to buy, with the RX450h starting from around £44k, and the Premier version we tested coming in at £59,935. But, the hybrid RX should prove cheaper to run than most cars of its size, and its low CO2 makes it particularly attractive for business drivers. Official economy is rated at 53.3mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 120g/km, although the latter figure can go up a bit if you choose a top trim level with larger alloy wheels. Another consideration is reliability; an area where Lexus has built up a loyal core of customers. The Japanese brand has built up an excellent reputation for quality and customer service over the years, with multiple triumphs in customer satisfaction surveys.

Our Verdict

Whether or not you like the bold new look of the RX is down to you as an individual, but under the skin, the RX is now usefully more practical and a touch cheaper to run. Perhaps the biggest improvement comes in the cabin though, which is now more stylish and very well-equipped.