Japan Lexus RX Improved Model Announced… Shimoyama Driving Tests Enhance Chassis Performance

*This content was translated by AI.

Japanese Lexus announced an upgraded specification model of the 'RX' on the 30th and began sales. The core point of this model change is that overall chassis performance was enhanced through performance improvements at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama (hereinafter TTC-S), which serves as the development hub for Toyota Lexus.

The Lexus RX was born as a luxury crossover SUV created for sale in the North American market in 1998. In 2005, with the launch of the 'RX400h,' it introduced the first hybrid model to the luxury market. Through this model, Lexus has sold approximately 4.3 million units cumulatively in about 95 countries worldwide as of the end of August 2026.

For this facelifted model, Lexus stated that it focused on tempering the chassis at Germany's Nürburgring, which features more severe road surface conditions, following its driving development hub in Shimoyama, Japan. According to the company, the new Lexus RX achieved a linear and natural driving feel, as if the driver is directly interacting with the vehicle, by optimizing the damping characteristics of the Adaptive Variable Suspension system (AVS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) control. Through this, it simultaneously offers stable body control without shaking even on rough roads and a comfortable ride.

Some changes are also evident in the exterior design. The 'White Nova Glass Flake' color was newly added to the Version L trim. Additionally, red-colored brake calipers, an optional specification, were applied to the 'F Sport Performance' and 'F Sport' trims to emphasize a sporty sensibility.

Another noteworthy aspect of the new Lexus RX is the improved convenience and safety specifications. All models come standard with infrared (IR) blocking functionality on the front seat door glass, and the Brake Hold function adopts a standby memory feature that maintains the setting state at engine start-up, enhancing everyday convenience. Furthermore, the digital rearview mirror and front/rear drive recorder have been applied as standard not only to the existing RX500h and RX450h+ but also to the RX350h and RX350 models, raising overall product appeal.

Meanwhile, the domestic debut schedule for the renewed Lexus RX has yet to be confirmed. Toyota Korea stated that it is concentrating all its efforts on the Lexus ES, which will be unveiled in mid-October.

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*This content was translated by AI.