Test Drive Lexus RX 1998 - 2003 SUV

Country luxury

Three years after the appearance of Lexus RX 300, its new version is presented. Changes are significant. The creators even attributed the model to another market segment: from SUV it moved to LAV (Luxury Activity Vehicle).

The new RX grows slightly not only in the technical sense, but also geometrically: it is 16.5 centimeters longer, by 2.5 wider than the former, the wheelbase has increased. The silhouette has become more rapid, and the design is sophisticated. The transformations in the appearance include the changed shape of the side rear windows and the final discoloration of transparent feed lamps (at one time their appearance gave the impetus to the new direction of tuning; in the catalogs of firms-decorators such optics is still called Lexus Lamps) they now issue the appointment of their sectors, Just being included.

It was worth bringing the key to the ignition lock, as the interior details came into motion, remembering the tester settings traveled to us. Correct them a little and go.

The devices come to life with the engine. The dials are recessed in deep wells, a visually continuing designer theme started in optics. A large information display is highlighted on a torpedo between stylized aluminum pedals. To operate with the electronics of navigation and trip-computer, it is enough to touch the screen with the keys marked on it (the touch-sensitive display in all configurations is offered as an option, an ordinary on-board monitor is included in the standard). Handles - switches do not require addiction. They work according to traditional Japanese algorithms and are exactly where, by overtaking the thought, the hand stretches. So, all systems are included and working. Ahead of the Sardinia road.

The car easily leaves the place after clicking on the gas pedal. It is after that, since the delay in the engine response to the command of the electronic control drive is still there. The six-cylinder V-shaped motor with the VVT-I system has a smooth character with a torque shelf in the revolutions range from 2500 to 5000 min1.

When evaluating the engine, the concept of sufficiency comes to mind. The presence of the motor is almost no felt. Excellent noise insulation, which is so proud of Toyotovsky engineers, softened gas response, smooth operation of the ACP all has a pleasant journey and a secular conversation. The power unit here is on the same role as the stamps on a vapor liner: no one sails away without them, but it is not necessary to show the work of the first-class passengers at all.

The three-spoke steering wheel does not have almost any resistance to the driver's hands, thereby depriving it any information about the grip of the wheels with the road. What is in return? Good, almost passenger controllability, powerful passive safety electronics and the complete absence of a desire to play. Here you have to listen to silence, music or interlocutor, enjoy serenity, and not whistling tires. The car itself reacts to change the coating and slows down in a turn if the driver is mistaken: the mirror will darken, send headlights to the desired point, etc. The captain remains only to give teams: the right of the steering wheel!, Middle forward!, Stop! ...

The test organizers sent us to a small walk through dirt roads. RX 300 Here is also comfortable and silent, like on asphalt. But when attempting to make a frankly off-road breakdown, he saved: not for Togo. Rock up to the country house or through the sandy beach to the sea is please. But climbing on Kosoyram ... The car is still resting and does not want to move off, and the electronics offendedly cracking stabilization systems tied to the brake system and ABS. The diagonal hanging looks simply by mockery over the car, which helplessly rotates the wheels hanging in the air and does not allow the driver to twist the motor and transmission.

The approach to the balance of running quality looks justified and reasonable. In civilized coatings, Lexus is little inferior in the convenience of ordinary cars. Small obstacles are also not terrible thanks to a large clearance and full drive. When moving along the highway at high speeds, the behavior of the car is calm and reliable. Powerful brakes with a convenient drive help the ACP and automatically involved inhibition by the engine.

New RX 300 decent successor favorite many models. We think he has everything you need to develop the success of the predecessor.

Technical Specifications Lexus RX 300

Body Universal
Curb weight, kg 1835
Full weight, kg 2380
Dimensions (length / width / height), mm 4740/1845/1705
Base, mm 2715
Maximum speed, km / h 200
Acceleration time up to 100 km / h, from 9.0
Fuel control, l / 100 km:
- urban cycle 16.9
- Country 9,4
- Mixed 12,2
Engine:
- Type of benz., V6, DOHC, 24-clap.
- Working volume, cm3 2995
- Power, hp at min - 1 204/5600
- torque, nm at min-1 283/4500
- power system multipoint electronic injection
Transmission Automatic., 5-speed
Wheel suspension:
- Front McPherson.
- rear McPherson with dual levers
Brakes:
- Front disc, ventilated
- Rear disk
Steering with a hydraulic
Price, $ 54900

Text: Vitaly Usov
 

A source: Magazine 5 Wheel [07/2003]