2016 Lexus RX Review

Detailed Review

The Lexus RX has been in production since 1998. The first generation concept combined the characteristics of an SUV and the luxury of a sedan and has gradually evolved over the years. The first generation RX codenamed XU10 was in production from 1998-2003. The second-generation RX codenamed XU30 was in production from 2003-2009. The third generation RX codenamed AL10 was in production from 2009-2015. The fourth generation RX codenamed AL20 has been in production from 2015 to 2021. The fifth generation codenamed ALA10 has been in production from 2022 to present.

The 2016 Lexus RX comes with 3 engine options; The 2.0-Litre 8AR-FTS petrol engine in the RX 200t, the 3.5-Litre 2GR-FSE petrol engine in the RX350, and the 3.5-Litre 2GR-FXS hybrid petrol engine in the RX450h. The engines are mated to a 6-Speed Super ECT and an electric CVT for the hybrid version. They are also available in both 2WD and 4WD options

2016 Lexus RX Grades

1. 2016 Lexus RX Base Package – This grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels,  automatic LED headlights, LED fog lights and running lights, rear privacy glass, a power liftgate, keyless ignition, Dual-zone automatic climate control, 7-inch color display screen, eight-way Power-adjustable front seats, a nine-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite and HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack, two USB ports and a media player interface
2. 2016 Lexus RX Luxury Package– This grade comes with 20-inch wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear door sunshades, upgraded leather upholstery, four-way front seat lumbar adjustment, heated rear seats and power operation for the folding and reclining rear seatbacks.
3. 2016 Lexus RX  Premium Package – This Grade adds roof rails, automatic wipers, driver memory functions, leather upholstery, wood trim and a rear armrest storage compartment.
4. 2016 Lexus RX F Sport – This grade adds a sportier exterior styling, 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, additional drive mode settings, an engine noise enhancer, transmission paddle shifters, special gauges, heated and ventilated sport seats, leather upholstery and special interior trim.

2016 Lexus RX Interior Legroom and Space

The 2016 Lexus RX offers ample room for both the driver and passengers. The first row has 44.1 inches of legroom, while the second row has 38 inches, which should be sufficient for most passengers. The headroom is also quite generous, with 39.4 inches in the first row and 39.1 inches in the second row.

The seats are well-padded and upholstered in high-quality materials for a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The interior of the RX is also well-designed, with plenty of storage space and simple-to-use controls.

Cabin Storage

The 2016 Lexus RX offers plenty of cabin storage space in both the first and second rows, making it a practical and convenient vehicle for passengers.

In the first row, the RX has a spacious center console with plenty of storage space for personal items. This console has a large storage bin, two cup holders, and a compartmentalized tray for smaller items. Storage pockets on the front doors can also hold water bottles and other items.

In the second row, there are Large pockets on the rear doors that can hold magazines or books. The rear center armrest has two cup holders and a storage tray.

Boot Space

The 2016 Lexus RX has a respectable amount of cargo space for a luxury SUV. There is 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which is large enough for several pieces of luggage or larger items like golf clubs or a stroller.

If more cargo space is required, the rear seats can be folded down to provide a total of 56.3 cubic feet. This is enough space to transport larger items like furniture.

Exterior

The 2016 Lexus RX has an eye-catching exterior design that is both modern and elegant. The bold spindle grille, sharp lines, and sleek profile give the vehicle a sporty and dynamic appearance.

The RX’s front end is especially eye-catching, with LED headlights and daytime running lights that create a sharp and modern appearance. The vehicle’s rear features a distinct tailgate design that adds a sporty feel, while the LED taillights provide excellent visibility and a distinctive lighting signature.

The taillights are sleek and modern, with an L-shaped design that is typical of the Lexus brand. The rear bumper has a chrome finish and a dual exhaust system, adding to the vehicle’s sporty and aggressive appearance.

Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, airbags, Adaptive Front Lighting, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, pre-collision warning system, Siri Eyes Free and a Backup Camera.

2016 Lexus RX Fuel Consumption

2016 Lexus RX200t Fuel Consumption: 13.6 km/L (on average)

2016 Lexus RX350 Fuel Consumption: 10.8 km/L (on average)

2016 Lexus RX450h Fuel Consumption: 17.2 km/L (on average)

2016 Lexus RX Acceleration

2016 Lexus RX200t accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9 secs.

2016 Lexus RX350 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 8 secs.

2016 Lexus RX450h accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.7 sec.

2016 Lexus RX Fuel Tank Capacity: 58 Litres

2016 Lexus RX Ground clearance: 7.3 Inches. This is above the minimum required clearance in Kenya; hence, it has a good off-road capability.

Stability and Handling

The 2016 Lexus RX has been praised for its composed ride, stable handling, and good braking performance. It features a double-wishbone rear suspension, which helps improve handling and stability.

The steering is well-weighted and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and confidently navigate through corners. The car’s all-wheel-drive system also improves stability by providing better traction and grip on slippery or uneven surfaces.

The 2016 RX also comes with a range of safety features, including stability control, traction control, and electronic brake-force distribution. These features work together to help improve the vehicle’s overall stability and handling in various driving conditions.

Service Intervals

Minor Service – Done at 10,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil

Major Service – Done at 15,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil

Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy

A few years back, Lexus spare parts were expensive and not easily available in Kenya. Things have significantly improved with the parts now being cheaper and easier to find. Considering that Lexus is an affiliate of Toyota, service parts are readily available in major towns and are shared with other Toyotas such as the Harrier. On the other hand, body parts such as headlights can be expensive and sometimes hard to find. For a list of spare part prices and dealers in Kenya, follow this link.

2016 Lexus RX Reliability

The 2016 Lexus RX is considered to be a reliable luxury SUV with a solid reputation for dependability. It is powered by a proven powertrain and features high-quality materials.

However, some owners have raised concerns over the vehicles’ transmission system especially hesitation during gear shifts and jerking. There have been reports of electrical issues with the RX.  Some owners have also reported lower-than-expected fuel economy, especially for the hybrid version.

It is important to note that these problems are not universal, and many owners have reported no problems with their vehicles.

As with any vehicle, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues as they arise to ensure long-term reliability. We recommend that you always adhere to the guidelines outlined in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Average

Lexus RX Competitors: BMW X5, VW Touareg, Mercedes M-Class, Audi Q5, Porsche Cayenne and Volvo XC60.

What We Like

• Premium interior
• Excellent ground clearance
• Quiet ride

What we don’t Like

• No third-row seat option

Conclusion

The 2016 Lexus RX is a solid choice for buyers looking for a luxury SUV that delivers a smooth and comfortable driving experience, along with the latest technology and safety features. It also offers great fuel efficiency and has an optional hybrid powertrain.