LA 2017: Lexus RX L Thinking Big with 3 Rows of Seats

More options for the automaker’s most popular model

KhodroCar - The Lexus RX has been one of Canada’s most popular luxury SUVs for the past 20 years, and for 2018 the company is introducing a new, family-oriented solution: the three-row Lexus RX L.

Designers stretched the model’s rear section out by 110 mm and raised the angle of the rear window to allow for inserting a third row of seats and to provide ampler cargo space.The standard 7-passenger version uses a 60/40 split bench-type seat. Access to the third row is made easy with the touch of a lever that slides the second seat forward. The optional 6-seat version includes captain’s seats in the middle row.

Leather seating is offered standard in a choice of colours, and the tri-zone climate control system provides rear-row passengers with separate air intakes and the ability to adjust their own settings. Also standard in the Lexus RX L is a hands-free power hatchback.

The model’s full-length side curtain airbags provide lateral-collision protection to all three rows. The standard Lexus Safety System+ includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, intelligent high-beam, dynamic cruise control and other systems. As options buyers can add intuitive parking assist and automatic cross-traffic braking as well.

On the power front, consumers are offered the same standard powertrain as with the regular RX: a 3.5L V6 delivering 290 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque, wedded to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive with dynamic torque control. The alternative engine choice is a hybrid system combining the same V6 with two electric motors with a total output of 308 hp. The all-wheel drive system adopts specific settings with this setup.

Pricing for the 2018 Lexus RX 350L and RX 450hL will be announced at the beginning of next year. In the meantime, check out our review of the 2017 Lexus RX 450h F Sport.