Lexus Manila launches updated RX350 luxury crossover

Lexus Manila today officially brings in the new and upgraded RX luxury crossover SUV. This car competes in a segment which the Japanese luxury marque practically created with the launch of the first-generation RX model in 1998.

Now on its third generation, the RX--which incidentally is the best-selling Lexus model in the Philippine market--has been given a thorough makeover by the brand. The most evident change is that it sports the now-familiar "spindle grille"--first seen on the CT200h and the GS--which the brand has adopted throughout its product line "to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges." The black-finished horizontal bars in the vehicle's lower grille help to reinforce the car's more modern and bolder identity.

Up front, a new and clear-lens headlamp cluster design incorporates halogen and HID headlamps. Serving as its accent are the L-finesse arrowhead-shaped integral LED daytime running lights that emphasize the unique visual signature of the updated RX line. Out back, the rear taillight clusters now sport clear lenses and have been redesigned to convey elegance to the vehicle's rear.

Apart from the exterior face-lift, the RX's interior has also been enhanced with an expanded choice of color schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, and a revised instrument binnacle.

The seat's stitching has been enhanced with the use of thicker thread and more prominent colors, while the dashboard’s design was enlivened through the addition of a matte silver insert above the glovebox. As for the new steering wheel, it features a cross-section that isn't uniform throughout its circumference, giving it a varying profile that supposedly "allows for a relaxing grip and smooth steering inputs."

The arrival of the updated RX also marks the local introduction of the RX350's 'Premier' option.

According to Lexus Manila, the Premier package includes a tilt-and-slide moonroof; new 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels; driver-seat, steering-wheel and side-mirror memory functions; a multipurpose roof rail; perforated leather seats; power rear door; and a backup camera integrated in the rear-view mirror.

"The RX350 was first described as the world’s first luxury crossover SUV, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a sports utility vehicle with the handling, performance and refinement of a luxury sedan," said Lexus Manila president Daniel Isla. "I personally find that the RX is not only a crossover in terms of vehicle class,rather, it is a crossover in that it 'crosses-over' into all aspects of your day-to-day routine. From theboardroom to the greens, from meetings to a round of golf, the RX integrates itself within your lifestyleand is a practical partner in your daily life."

The new RX350 is now available at Lexus Manila at P3.578 million, while the RX350 Premium goes for P3.898 million.