LEXUS RX



Lexus only recently unveiled the 2016 RX, and it has a completely new look that some may love and others, not so much. At the Shanghai Auto Show, Lexus revealed a new addition to the redesigned RX lineup, in the form of the RX 200t.

With its new four-cylinder addition for the 2016 model year, the RX is treading into new waters for this segment, as neither the Acura MDX nor the Infiniti QX60 have four-pot offerings.


Save for a few new badges, the exterior of the new RX 200t is identical to the rest of the recently redesigned RX lineup. The highlights include bodylines that are more angular, flared front and rear wheel arches, a more pronounced signature spindle grille, an all-new fascia, and new wraparound taillights.


One polarizing part of the new RX lineup is the “floating roof.” Essentially, this is just a blacked-out section of the C-pillar that creates the illusion that the roof simply floats above the rest of the vehicle. Some people love it and some hate it. I still have mixed feelings about it. At some angles, it looks just fine, while at others, it looks pretty strange.

Optional on the RX 200t is the F SPORT package, which adds an F-style mesh grille insert and other sportier elements.

The interior of the RX 200t will be identical to the rest of the RX lineup, but that is definitely not a bad thing. Lexus spent a fair amount of time updating the redesigned RX’s cabin to assure that it is up to par with the rest of the luxury crossovers out there.


The updates include updated trim pieces, additional legroom for the rear-seat passengers, a standard panoramic sunroof, and optional laser-cut ornamentation.

The optional F SPORT model may gain a few extra doses of sportiness, like an F Sport steering wheel and some exclusive trim pieces.

The engine is where the RX 200t is completely different from its siblings. Under here, Lexus installed a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 228 horsepower. To help milk that kind of power from this small-displacement engine, Lexus added a twin-scroll turbocharger and an air-to-liquid intercooler. The intercooler helps combat power-robbing heat.


This engine appears to be exclusive to China and other emerging markets. In the U.S., the RX uses either a traditional 3.5-liter V-6 or a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 mated with an electric motor for extra fuel economy.


Backing up the four-pot engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. There is no mention of whether this model has available all-wheel drive or comes only with front-wheel drive. Confident that all-wheel drive is an option though.