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2016 Lexus RX 350
There will be a total redesign of the 2016 Lexus RX 350, and it will be introduced in Q2/2015, probably closer to June 2015. Do any of you know what exterior and interior changes will occur and what content changes we will see?
There are some rumors that the current 2014/2015 rather dated RX 350 interior dash + enform infotainment system + user unfriendly mouse-like controller (pic #1: http://static.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/images/Auto/izmo/364114/2014_lexus_rx_350_dashboard.jpg : Pic #2: http://image.automobilemag.com/f/68963700+q100+re0/2015-lexus-rx-350-f-sport-interior.jpg) will undergo major changes, similar to the the dash/cabin layout on the newly redesigned 2014/2015 Toyota Harrier (2014/2015 Toyota Harrier, which is the Asian re-badged RX 350 that is sold in Japan and other Asian markets ) which has incorporated a nicer looking and more user friendly layout (including Surround View/top-down360 degree bird's eye view, panoramic sunroof, + additional safety content, etc). Check out the following links for the 2014/2015 Harrier: 1) JPEG image of interior/dash 2015 Harrier: http://www.automobilesreview.com/gallery/2015-toyota-harrier/2015-toyota-harrier-07.jpg ; 2) Vid #1 (check out the dash/infotainment and gear shift layout; of course the front end/grill design will not come stateside, but the interior might; there is no audio on this video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQsgvltOpQA ; 3) Vid #2 (2015 Harrier Hybrid interior/exterior w/Panoramic Sunroof): 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiMjECWAumc 4) Vid#3 (2014 Harrier interior w/split screen Nav display w/ Surround View display on left side of split screen display, @ 1:15 into the 3:36 minute video) : 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrcTl5WHfeY , or the new dash design/layout could be a combined version of elements of the Harrier described above and the dash design of the new 2015 Lexus NX 200t (pic #1: http://image.motortrend.com/f/wot/1404_2015_lexus_nx_engine_specs_new_turbo_makes_235_hp/71538528/2015-Lexus-NX-200t-F-Sport-cockpit.jpg ; pic #2: http://www.6speedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2015-Lexus-NX-Production-025.jpg ; pic #3: http://gearheads.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/2015-Lexus-NX-200t-interior.jpg ).
Additionally, I've heard the updated Enform system will incorporate Apple's CarPlay System which will make using the Enform system with your iPhone (iPhone 5 and above) much more seamless and safer.(check these links out: 1) Apple's description of their new remarkable/innovative in-car tech, CarPlay (scroll down to the bottom of this page to see Toyota/Lexus partnering with Apple CarPlay): http://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/ ; 2) CNET's Take on CarPlay:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JDB_4EN2Io ; and 3) Toyota/Lexus says its implementation is coming, but when: http://www.redmondpie.com/toyota-confirms-apple-carplay-coming-soon-to-its-cars-lineup/ .
What changes would you like to see in the totally redesigned 2016 RX 350?
See also: Lexus RX 350 Reviews & Specifications
There are some rumors that the current 2014/2015 rather dated RX 350 interior dash + enform infotainment system + user unfriendly mouse-like controller (pic #1: http://static.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/images/Auto/izmo/364114/2014_lexus_rx_350_dashboard.jpg : Pic #2: http://image.automobilemag.com/f/68963700+q100+re0/2015-lexus-rx-350-f-sport-interior.jpg) will undergo major changes, similar to the the dash/cabin layout on the newly redesigned 2014/2015 Toyota Harrier (2014/2015 Toyota Harrier, which is the Asian re-badged RX 350 that is sold in Japan and other Asian markets ) which has incorporated a nicer looking and more user friendly layout (including Surround View/top-down360 degree bird's eye view, panoramic sunroof, + additional safety content, etc). Check out the following links for the 2014/2015 Harrier: 1) JPEG image of interior/dash 2015 Harrier: http://www.automobilesreview.com/gallery/2015-toyota-harrier/2015-toyota-harrier-07.jpg ; 2) Vid #1 (check out the dash/infotainment and gear shift layout; of course the front end/grill design will not come stateside, but the interior might; there is no audio on this video):
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQsgvltOpQA ; 3) Vid #2 (2015 Harrier Hybrid interior/exterior w/Panoramic Sunroof): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiMjECWAumc 4) Vid#3 (2014 Harrier interior w/split screen Nav display w/ Surround View display on left side of split screen display, @ 1:15 into the 3:36 minute video) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrcTl5WHfeY , or the new dash design/layout could be a combined version of elements of the Harrier described above and the dash design of the new 2015 Lexus NX 200t (pic #1: http://image.motortrend.com/f/wot/1404_2015_lexus_nx_engine_specs_new_turbo_makes_235_hp/71538528/2015-Lexus-NX-200t-F-Sport-cockpit.jpg ; pic #2: http://www.6speedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2015-Lexus-NX-Production-025.jpg ; pic #3: http://gearheads.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/2015-Lexus-NX-200t-interior.jpg ).
Additionally, I've heard the updated Enform system will incorporate Apple's CarPlay System which will make using the Enform system with your iPhone (iPhone 5 and above) much more seamless and safer.(check these links out: 1) Apple's description of their new remarkable/innovative in-car tech, CarPlay (scroll down to the bottom of this page to see Toyota/Lexus partnering with Apple CarPlay): http://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/ ; 2) CNET's Take on CarPlay:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JDB_4EN2Io ; and 3) Toyota/Lexus says its implementation is coming, but when: http://www.redmondpie.com/toyota-confirms-apple-carplay-coming-soon-to-its-cars-lineup/ .What changes would you like to see in the totally redesigned 2016 RX 350?
See also: Lexus RX 350 Reviews & Specifications
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Comments
1.) Panoramic Sunroof (Re: Harrier vid #2 in previous post);
2.) Surround View Camera/Imaging System/Panoramic View Monitor with 'Moving View' function (Re: Harrier vid #3 in previous post, and item #7 below);
3.) New Interior/Dash more user friendly layout combining elements of Harrier and NX (see previous post for possible changes);
4.) Revised Enform 3.0 Infotainment System + Apple CarPlay
5.) 8 Speed Automatic Transmission on all RX models, not just the RX 350 w/F-Sport Trim;
6.) Better fuel efficiency/MPG due to a lighter RX w/more use of aluminum + 8 spd tranny;
7.) Other Safety Tech, Parking Assist (ICS + Panoramic View Monitor) and LED Lighting Tech; Check it out: http://www.automobilemag.com/features/news/1411-toyota-introduces-new-safety-lighting-technologies/
http://www.autoblog.com/2014/11/26/lexus-rx-replacement-detroit-report/
Vid #1:
Vid #2:
Check it out: http://blog.caranddriver.com/next-gen-toyota-pre-crash-pedestrian-detection-systems-to-debut-on-2016-lexus-rx/
Check it out: http://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2014/12/28/mark-phelan-new-cars/20932271/
If the 2016 RX turns out to be a NO SHOW at the Detroit AS in a couple weeks, expect to see it revealed at the Chicago AS in February, or the NY AS in April. The NY AS in April actually seems the most likely, from Lexus' corporate point of view, so they can clear out most of the 2015 inventory before they begin production of the 2016 RX, say in March or April, ready for a June release.
We should know pretty soon if the rumors are true.
Check it out: http://www.leftlanenews.com/2016-lexus-rx-to-bow-in-detroit.html
Check it out: http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-rx-2016.html
DETROIT — The redesigned 2016 Lexus RX 350 SUV will be unveiled at the 2015 New York Auto Show in April, Edmunds has confirmed.
It is expected to arrive at Lexus dealerships later this year.
The popular RX 350 competes with such vehicles as the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Lincoln MKX and Volvo XC90.
The RX 350 is expected to be larger, a strategy that will separate it in terms of size and price from the recently introduced 2015 Lexus NX 200t SUV, which shares a platform with the smaller Toyota RAV4.
Car shoppers should expect the redesigned RX 350 to use an extensive amount of lightweight materials to boost fuel economy. It will continue to share a platform with the Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon, industry sources said.
The RX 350 may be stretched a bit to accommodate a third-row seat, but Lexus has not confirmed whether seven-passenger seating will be offered. The model has been a five-seater since its inception in 1998.
As for styling, Lexus is not expected to mess with success. The RX 350 has been Lexus’ No. 1 selling model for years, accounting for about 35 percent of total Lexus sales last year. The styling will be evolutionary rather than revolutionary.
As with all redesigned Lexus models, a bit more pizzazz may be injected into the styling, particularly in the spindle grille, a predominant styling cue on new Lexus models.
Edmunds says: The Lexus RX 350 has always been a perfect combination of family-style practicality, carlike comfort and a top-notch ownership experience. A third-row seat would only add to its long list of attributes.
Makes sense, since Lexus wants some more time to market the new NX 200t/300h, before starting to market the next gen 2016 RX 350/450h. However, I still believe the 2016 RX will be an early release.
X-Ray Specs: 2016 Acura MDX Gets 9-Speed Trans, Electronic Gimcrackery
Check it out: http://blog.caranddriver.com/x-ray-specs-2016-acura-mdx-gets-9-speed-trans-electronic-gimcrackery/
Does this mean the next gen 2016 RX 350 will get the factory installed CarPlay, or will it be the 2017 RX? Anyone with info on this subject from Lexus sales staff?
Check it out: http://www.leftlanenews.com/apple-carplay-to-arrive-in-40-models-this-year.html
http://autoweek.com/article/new-york-auto-show/2016-lexus-rx-previewed-ahead-new-york-auto-show-reveal
The new 2016 4th gen RX 350 has bold new exterior styling with a chiseled grill, interesting bodyside character lines, an exciting new cabin design and layout with a generous 12.3 " Enform/Navi infotainment display, updated/improved safety tech and other options like a heads up display, 20" wheels, heated and power fold down rear seats and a panoramic moon roof to name a couple. The power-plants remain the same except the 3.5L V6 gains 30 HP (270--->300), making it's acceleration more competative with the MDX, and all models get an 8 speed trany, formerly only available on the F-Sport trim model. The chassis is larger overall (longer and wider), similar to the current Highlander, but no 3rd row option, at least initially; the 3rd row seat option will reportedly be available in 12-24 months.
Check these links and pics:
1) http://www.autoblog.com/2015/04/01/2016-lexus-rx-350-450h-new-york-2015/
2) http://autoweek.com/article/new-york-auto-show/2016-lexus-rx-shows-new-sheetmetal-new-york-auto-show
3) http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/new_york/2015/1504-2016-lexus-rx-arrives-in-new-york/
What do you all think? Do you like the new look, or not?
5 Cool 2016 RX Features: http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/new_york/2015/1504-5-cool-features-on-the-2016-lexus-rx/
RX 350 F Sport Video:
Check out the video:
Both of these rides look great; I give the edge to the new 2016 RX.
What do you think?
Link: http://www.leftlanenews.com/acura-prices-updated-2016-rdx-88355.html
Faux floating rear pillar and predator face are too much.
2016 RX 350 F Sport grill:
http://images.thecarconnection.com/lrg/2016-lexus-rx-350_100506453_l.jpg
Darth Vader: (http://www.tk1336.com/pictures/sithplanetanhhelmet1.gif)
Predator: (http://static.comicvine.com/uploads/scale_super/14/144028/2990389-predator+1.jpg )
The side view (with faux rear floating pillar) and rear view of the RX are more pleasing to my eye vs the X5, but I like the interior dash design and layout of the X5 much better than the RX, plus the X5's iDrive Touch Infotainment System will probably be more user friendly and intuitive (at least it is on the 2015 X5 vs the 2015 RX) (
I think the fake floating pillar is a shallow dash of wannabe-daring into a non-daring vehicle sold to a lot of beige people who think they might be hip. It makes sense, that way.
I think Darth Vader is too cool for this, he'd be in an AMG or M car, probably, or a Buick GNX, of course.
This is the Lexus Predator face
Or maybe it's a 61 Plymouth that crashed into a Nike store
Check it out: http://www.leftlanenews.com/ceo-lexus-should-have-launched-three-row-cuv-not-rc-coupe-88465.html
Check it out: https://lexusenthusiast.com/2015/04/17/photo-gallery-the-2016-lexus-rx-350-in-silver/
Although I prefer better looking wheels like on these 2015 NX 200t's:
Pic #1: http://image.motortrend.com/f/roadtests/suvs/1407_2015_lexus_nx_200t_300h_first_drive/73458085/2015-lexus-nx-200t-front-three-quarter.jpg
Pic #2: http://www.tampabay.com/resources/images/dti/rendered/2014/10/BL_profile100414_14047954_8col.jpg
Pic #3: http://image.motortrend.com/f/roadtests/suvs/1503_the_big_test_2015_luxury_compact_crossovers/98612834/2015-lexus-nx-200t-f-sport-wheels.jpg
Since the 2015 RX 350 is frequently cross-shopped with the RDX, this review will compare some of the differences.
Check it out:
AutoBlog: http://www.autoblog.com/2015/09/08/2016-lexus-rx-first-drive-review-video/
Alex on Autos:
2016 Lexus RX 350 Road Test
(Interesting take/review by The Detroit News on the 2016 RX 350)
Check it out: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/columnists/henry-payne/2015/09/09/lexus-rx-gets-treme-makeover/71984212/
Question: Will the (formerly?) loyal senior Lexus RX devotes stay loyal as Lexus tries to drum up more sales to younger buyers with the new '16 RX sharp-angled, polarizing front end/grill design, or will they exit at trade-in time for a new MDX, or some other competitor? Initial informal polling is not too promising.
The 3rd row concern (ie, small kids and G-kids) will most likely be answered in 1-2 yrs, when the RX gets that as an option (the larger '16 RX platform is now about the same size as the current '15/'16 Highlander), but the polarizing front end (a blend of Darth Vader vs Predator + Dali's 'stashe) (also, refer to fintail's May 5th post, above) will most likely need some major mods if Lexus wants the senior sales to stay strong.
PS
Lexus, please get rid of the Salvador Dali flower-power whiskers/mustache (check the links: 1) https://hidrosexytronico.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/salvador-dali.jpg ; 2) http://roa.h-cdn.co/assets/15/14/980x490/landscape-1427896657-nyias-2016-lexus-rx-350-f-sport-001.jpg )
Does anyone know if the 2016 RX 350 (and previous models) has built-in keyless ignition safeguards, like a timed auto shut-off, to eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, if you have an attached garage? And if not, is there a recall in place yet to fix this problem? My sister has a recently purchased new 2015 RX 350 and was told by the dealership her new 2015 RX 350 does NOT have the sageguard(s). She has an attached garage and is quite concerned about a senior moment that could kill her, by carbon monoxide poisoning!
Check out the following link: http://abcnews.go.com/US/keyless-ignitions-led-carbon-monoxide-deaths-recalled-suit/story?id=33344253
At the very least, this car tech deficiency can cost the car owner lots of wasted gas and bad MPG #'s, and at the worst it can kill the owner and the entire family!
Of course not, I'd need one for a Vespa but not for a 42' motorhome or a Veyron, certainly not for a car that I might just be too forgetful or dumb to operate
Heck, you could make the same argument for the safety features that are showing up on most cars like blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, etc. because if the 'stupid' driving public would only look into their side and rear view mirrors and turn their head a little over their right shoulder like they are suppose to before changing lanes in traffic to check their blind spots we shouldn't need those safety features either, right, yet the auto manufactures claim these features make driving safer? Go figure!
Seems to me this is a no-brainer, but then I have no brain, and I'm stupid.
I definitely believe that some of the modern nannies breed bad habits, too. Safety sells, and these features have high margins. Altruism isn't the main motivator.
If Lexus/Toyota does not intervene in a timely fashion and right a wrong in their cars, like issue a TSB and/or recall, for those Lexus/Toyota cars already sold that have keyless ignitions, it's not only terrible for the owners who will continue to be injured and killed by carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning due to this issue, it can be potentially very expensive to Toyota, like the unintended acceleration suit that cost Toyota at least one billion dollars not so long ago.
Article #1) Oct 5th ABC News Investigation of Keyless Ignitions: http://abcnews.go.com/US/abc-news-investigation-potential-risk-keyless-ignitions/story?id=34161887
Article #2) Courthouse News Service: http://www.courthousenews.com/2015/08/28/class-calls-keyless-autos-dangerous.htm
You are right though, Toyota should know its key demographic and idiot-proof its cars
Seems like the 2016 RX is now more available and the discounting has started.
What sort of deals are being had?