Preview: 2016 Lexus RX

Under the hood is a new, upgraded and more powerful 3.5L V6 mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination is apparently good for 300 hp. Based on this improved powertrain is the hybrid model’s Atkinson-cycle 3.5-L V6 hybrid. When combined with the electric motor, the total output results in more than 300 hp. As always, RX drive trains have been tuned to achieve high fuel economy and a low carbon footprint.

Chassis-wise, the new RX is stiffer and stronger than the previous generations. The benefit to the strengthening is the added handling benefits associated with a stiffer chassis. The new RX is more stable, corners better and will feel more responsive. The downside to the chassis strengthening is the more than likely added weight penalty.

For better or worse, it’s 2015 and electronic aids are mandatory and expected. New Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) systems help keep everything civil and safe. Each of the systems are designed to help recognize potentially dangerous situations and make automatic and often transparent adjustments to ensure the vehicle remains in control when entering and exiting corners too fast or in adverse conditions. Also, All-Wheel Drive improves the RX’s handling performance and stability on dry and slick surfaces alike.

The RX features a fully independent suspension system, consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone setup at rear. The new suspension has been tuned and reinforced to improve handling while keeping a good and smooth ride quality.

Exclusively available on all F Sport packages is the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The AVS system electronically monitors and adapts the suspension and steering settings to ensure optimal handling and ride depending on the driving conditions. Put your foot down to the floor and charge up to a corner, the RX AVS robots optimize your setup for the upcoming corner.

Under regular driving conditions, the AVS will automatically make lightning-quick adjustments to the shock absorber settings, ensuring the smoothest ride quality possible. The system is also designed to produce less body lean through corners, providing a sporty driving experience.

The new, stiffer chassis increases the overall passive safety rating of the RX. Lexus Safety System+, helps avoid or mitigate collisions across a wide range of vehicle speeds and conditions.

Introduced globally, Lexus Safety System+ integrates several of Lexus’ existing active safety technologies. These include the Pre-Collision System (PCS) that detects sudden stops initiated by the vehicle in front, warning drivers of potential contact with obstacles and pedestrians ahead; Lane Departure Alert (LDA), which issues an audible signal if the vehicle strays from its intended lane; and Automatic High Beam (AHB) that helps ensure optimal forward visibility during nighttime driving. As part of a multi-faceted approach to active safety, the Lexus Safety System+ package utilizes a millimetre-wave radar that works together with a camera to keep the RX in its intended driving lane via the Lane Departure Alert feature (LDA) and enhances the target detection for the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. For even higher safety levels, Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) are available as optional equipment. Skynet is here.

For the first time, the RX Hybrid is available with the F Sport package. F Sport badged RXs are equipped with a number of visual and performance features that set them apart from other versions. The signature front grille and lower centre piece of the rear bumper possess an “F” mesh design. New 20-inch alloy wheels, exclusive to the F Sport, also help give the RX a commanding presence. Inside, the driver is treated to a custom F Sport instrument cluster as well as a sport steering wheel, featuring perforated leather and an attractive F Sport emblem, complete with paddle shifters. Exclusive colours and trim pieces are also part of the sport package.

Suspension wise, F Sport utilizies an active stabilizer system with cutting-edge technology helps keep the vehicle’s body amazingly flat through corners. The aforementioned AVS, which also helps keep the vehicle planted to driving surfaces through turns, is standard on RX F Sport. The driver can select the AVS-enhanced Sport S+ mode, in addition to Eco, Normal and Sport S settings, on the Drive Mode Select control located on the centre console.

Lexus has a pretty sharp looking luxury CUV on its hands here and we’re looking forward to seeing how it stacks up compared to the previous generations.

No word on pricing yet but the RX is slated for sale starting in October of 2015.