Lexus RX test drive since 2012 SUV

Rock luxury

Three years after the appearance of the Lexus RX 300, its new version is presented. The 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 has grown a little not only in a technical sense, but also geometrically: it is 16.5 centimeters longer, 2.5 wider than the previous one, the wheelbase increased. The silhouette has become more rapid, and the design is sophisticated. The transformations in the form include the changed shape of the lateral rear windows and the final bleaching of transparent feed lights (at one time their appearance gave impetus to the new direction of tuning; in the catalogs of decoration firms, such optics is still called lexus lamps) they now give out their sectors, Only being included.

It was worth losing the key to the ignition lock, the interior details were set in motion, recalling the settings of the tester who drove by car to us. We adjust them a little and on the road.

Together with the engine, devices come to life. The dials are recessed in deep wells, visually continuing the designer theme, begun in optics. A large information display is displayed, located on a torpedo between stylized aluminum pedals. To operate with the electronics of navigation and the triple-computer, it is enough to touch the screen with the keys indicated on it (Touch-Sensitive display in all trim levels is offered as an option, the standard includes a regular on-board monitor). Knowlides do not require addiction. They work according to traditional Japanese algorithms and are where, where, overtaking thought, the hand stretches. So, all systems are included and working. Ahead of the road of Sardinia.

The car easily leaves the place after pressing the gas pedal. It is after, since there is still a delay in the response of the engine to the engine of the electronic control drive. A six-cylinder V-shaped motor with a VVT-I system is even with a torque shelf in a speed range from 2500 to 5000 min1.

When evaluating the engine, the concept of sufficiency comes to mind. The presence of the motor is almost not felt. The excellent sound insulation, which Toyota engineers are so proud of, a softened response to gas, the smooth work of the automatic transmission has everything with a pleasant trip and a social conversation. The power unit here is on the same role as the stokers on the steam liner: no one will float anywhere without them, but it is not necessary to show the hard workers at all.

The three -spoke steering wheel has practically no resistance to the driver’s hands, thereby depriving him of any information about the clutch of the wheels with the road. What in return? Good, almost passening, powerful passive security electronics and a complete lack of desire to squeeze. Here you need to listen to silence, music or interlocutor, enjoy serenity, and not whistle with tires. The car itself will react to change the coating and slow down in the bend, if the driver is mistaken: darling the mirrors, direct the headlights to the desired point, etc. The captain can only give commands: the right of the steering wheel!, Average forward!, Stop! ...

The organizers of the test sent us on a short walk along the ground roads. RX 300 here is also comfortable and silent as on asphalt. But when trying to make a frankly off -road sortie, he saved: not for that. To drive up to a country house or through a sandy beach to the sea, please. But to climb the slopes ... The car rests directly and does not want to budge, and the electronics are offended by the stabilization systems tied to the brake system and ABS. The diagonal hanging looks just like a mockery of a car, which helplessly rotates wheels hanging in the air and does not allow the driver to twist the motor and transmission.

The approach to the balance of running qualities looks justified and reasonable. On civilized coatings, Lexus is not inferior in convenience to ordinary cars. Small obstacles are also not afraid of him thanks to a large clearance and complete drive. When driving along the highway at high speeds, the behavior of the car is calm and reliable. ACP and automatically involved in the engine help with a convenient drive.

The new RX 300 is a worthy successor to the beloved model. We think that he has everything he needs to develop the success of his predecessor.

Technical characteristics Lexus RX 300

Body station wagon
Equipped mass, kg 1835
Full mass, kg 2380
Dimensions (length/width/height), mm 4740/1845/1705
Base, mm 2715
Maximum speed, km/h 200
Acceleration time to 100 km/h, from 9.0
Control consumption of fuel, l/100 km:
- City cycle 16.9
- Zagorodi 9.4
- Mixed 12.2
Engine:
- Type of benz., V6, Dohc, 24-valve.
- working volume, cm3 2995
- Power, L.S. at MIN-1 204/5600
- torque, NM at min-1 283/4500
- power supply system of electronic injection
Transmission automatic., 5-speed
Wheel suspension:
- Front Mcpherson
- rear McPherson with double levers
Brakes:
- front disk, ventilated
- rear disc
Steering with a hydraulic wrap
Price, $ from 54900

Text: Vitaly Usov
 

A source: Magazine 5 wheel [07/2003]