Lexus RX Goes Green on All Cylinders
Guess what, folks? The all-new Lexus RX is heading straight to the Singapore Motorshow 2023. And if you’ve been scratching your head wondering whether it’s just a cute hybrid or a full‑on eco‑savvy machine, here’s the lowdown: every single model is hybrid‑powered!
What the Press Heard
When Lexus rolled out the new RX to the press earlier this month, they unveiled four powertrain options. But the Singapore lineup is a bit leaner – only three of those will roll off the assembly line in our beloved Lion City.
The Omission
That one missing piece? The RX 350 – a 2.4‑liter turbo petrol beast. Lexus decided to skip that one for Singapore, focusing instead on the hybrid variants that keep your eco‑footprint in check.
- Hybrid RX 350h – The same misnomer, now with a hybrid twist.
- Hybrid RX 450h – More power, still green.
- Hybrid RX 450hL – The luxury trim with a hybrid heart.
In short: white‑clean ride, zero‑emissions vibe, and the same plush luxury that Lexus is famous for. Got any questions? Drop them in the comments – let’s chat about this green revolution for a sleek SUV that’s ready to conquer the streets of Singapore!
Lexus in Singapore: Going Hybrid‑First, 2025‑Driven
Ever felt like your car was stuck in the past? Borneo Motors is rewriting that story for you. They’re rolling out a full hybrid lineup to keep Singapore on track toward a shiny, zero‑emission future.
What’s the Big Dream?
- 2025 Goal – All‑electric Lexus range in Singapore
- 2035 Vision – Lexus says “see ya, combustion”
- So, until 2035, self‑charging hybrids & plug‑ins are the star players (no mild hybrids for this brand, folks)
The Star of the Show: RX 350h
You’ll see the RX 350h as the “bread‑and‑butter” of the new RX family. Think: luxurious, electric‑peppered performance, and a vibe that says, “I’m ready for future, but I like the classics too.”
That one car is already stepping forward, and it’s worth checking out if you’re into slick design and green tech. Cheers to the hybrids that keep the showroom gleaming and the planet humming!
Lexus RX Hybrid Line-Up: From Zero‑Emissions to Full‑Throttle Fun
RX 450h+ – The Electric Roamer for Daily Singapore Drives
Imagine a sleek SUV that can take you up to 50 km purely on battery power – that’s the 18.1 kWh lithium‑ion pack in the new RX 450h+. In Singapore’s stop‑and‑go traffic, it does the full day’s commute with a single charge. Need to ride farther? The 2.5‑litre engine steps in, giving you that handy backup for those weekend golf trips to Malacca – no need to worry about spooky “fuel‑light” moments.
- Battery‑only range: ~50 km
- Long‑haul partner: 2.5‑litre combustion engine
- Daily comfort = zero guilt + zero pit‑stop anxiety
RX 500h – The Dirty Good Racing‑Ready Grand Tourer
For golfers who also want a thrilling drive home, meet the RX 500h, or the high‑octane RX 500h F Sport Performance Direct4. It packs a 367 horsepower engine and a turbo‑charged hybrid system that pairs a turbo engine with electric motors—a first for any Lexus. Think of it as a hybrid iron: powerful on the range, precise on the greens.
- Horsepower: 367 hp
- Turbocharged hybrid – the “four‑turbo‑dare” that pounds forward
- Chassis tweaks: lighter, sharper, more precise
Whether you’re chasing the next golf club or the next town, the RX lineup shows that you can blend eco‑friendly power with exciting performance. Enjoy the ride, and maybe bring a bottle of pop for celebratory “hit‑the‑green” moments.
We’ve Got a Car for Every Taste
Got a pre‑production RX on the lot and we jumped in for the first time. There’s something here for everyone—whether you’re a busy parent, a weekend explorer, or just a cranky commuter.
Kick‑off: The Volume Version
- We tested the Volume edition to see how it handles everyday traffic.
- Feel the seat cushions cradle you like a hug from an old “good‑night” blanket.
- Map the route, rev the engine, and watch the response—no drama, just pure, honest power.
- Our early impressions? It’s the kind of car that says “I’m here for you.”
Stick around; the next version has a few twists we’re excited to reveal.
Design and appearance
Meet the New RX: A True Head-Turner
Picture this: a car that turns heads the moment it hits the curb. The new RX isn’t just a cute upgrade – it’s a whole new vibe on wheels.
Remember the Old RX?
We all do. The original was equally eye‑catching with a massive spindle grille that screamed “look at me!” and a slick floating roof effect highlighted by that sleek, blacked‑out D‑pillar. Pretty much the perfect recipe for a legend.
What’s New AND Old Combined?
- Floating Roof Reimagined: It still floats, but now the curve slides down more smoothly to the rear, giving it a sleeker look.
- Rear Swoop: Those lines swoop back up a touch, flirting with the roof for an elegant finish.
- Grille & D‑Pillar Static: The spindle grille stays, but the mysterious black D‑pillar now ties everything together real slickly.
In short, the new RX takes the classic charm of the old model and gives it a fresh, fancy makeover that’s sure to leave you awestruck.
Spindle Grille Gets a Modern Twist
So, the classic spindle grille is still here—just got a makeover. Picture it like a half‑open window and a solid balcony, with the Lexus emblem sneaking in between to shout: We’re all about that electric vibe now. Pretty slick, right?
The “Dodo-Bye” Style
Lexus is saying “no thanks” to the old school grilles and focusing on cars that look like just‑aint‑spindles. If you peek at the RX’s rear curves, you’ll get a taste of what that future looks like.
Taillight Drama that Dazzles
- Taillight Stretch: It’s like watching a graceful ribbon unfurl behind the car.
- Eyeliner‑Like Light Bar: Think of it as the car’s sky‑high caption, tying the two taillights together with style.
Bottom line? The new sedan’s rear has turned into a visual show‑stopper, combining futuristic flair with everyday drive‑ability for a glow‑up that’s hard to miss on the road.
Meet the All‑New Fifth‑Generation RX
Picture a car that feels almost like a fresh start: the latest RX doesn’t just tweak the old layout – it rewrites the whole story. Even the lug nuts are brand‑new, so every bolt is a new chapter.
Size‑wise, it’s a curious blend
- Length: 4,890 mm – same as the previous model (talk about déjà vu).
- Width: 1,902 mm – 25 mm broader, giving it more room to spread the vibes.
- Height: 1,695 mm – a little 10 mm lower, so it sits a bit more poised.
- Wheelbase: 2,850 mm – 60 mm longer, promising better road grip.
- Track width: Front 15 mm, Rear 45 mm wider – robust stance for both front and back.
Wheel and tire upgrades
- 19‑inch wheels for the front – sleek and sporty.
- 21‑inch wheels for the rear – they fit the arches perfectly and give that “wow” factor.
Built on Toyota’s GA‑K platform
The chassis is part of the same family that’s behind the Camry, Harrier, Lexus ES, and NX. The new RX tweaks the rear, adding a multi‑link suspension and a fresh e‑axle that powers the RX 500h. This gives the car both agile handling and electric‑friendly efficiency.
Strong, light, and engineered for performance
- Components are glued and welded with high‑strength steel – the whole body is slimmer yet far tougher.
- Weight: About 90 kg lighter than before.
- Result: Not longer, but wider and firmer – like a perfectly balanced workout.
What’s coming next?
With this redesign, the RX is set to stride into a future where bold styling meets sophisticated technology. Want to see how it all unfolds? Keep your eyes on the road.
Interior and features
Revamped RX – A Modern Make‑over
It was like a magic spell cast inside the cabin, turning the old‑school flair of the previous RX into something sleek and fresh. Think of it: no more laser‑cut wooden panels, vintage metallic knobs, or that classic “old‑world luxury” feel. That has all been swapped for a contemporary aesthetic that feels like it just stepped off the showroom floor.
Dash & Display
The interior’s centerpiece is a 14‑inch touchscreen, borrowed straight from the current NX sedan‑style SUV. The menu layout, navigation, and media controls closely mirror its sibling – making it feel familiar yet entirely modern.
- Touchscreen simplicity: Big, bright, and easy to swipe.
- Integrated navigation: Stay on track, even on the long road.
- Media hub: All your music apps in one spot, just a tap away.
Why It Feels Fresh
Under the hood of the new design is a clear move away from past trends. The cabin is all about clean lines, soft materials, and a quiet, yet engaging, digital interface. For anyone tired of clunky needles and grabby knobs, the RX’s spruced‑up interior feels like a breath of modern air.
Get Ready to Drive the New Age
So, if you’re after a car that feels more “today” than “yesterday,” the reborn RX might just be the ticket. With its updated dash and contemporary vibe, it’s set to turn heads – and greet drivers with a smoother ride.
Lexus Revamps Controls: Buttons, Bytes, and a Dash of Safety
Okay, so the car still has those classic physical buttons you’re used to. But the real vibe comes from the digital interface that graces the dashboard—think slick, intuitive, and super‑friendly. No more fiddling with that clunky touchpad‑plus‑cursor combo from the previous model—this is practically a user‑friendly upgrade.
Lighting That Pops
- Our 64‑colour LED ambient light brings a splash of personality to each ride.
- It folds seamlessly into the car’s style, making every drive feel like a personal rave.
Door Smartness
The electric door latch system is a game‑changer. Picture this: A cyclist is barreling by, you’re about to swing open a door out of habit. The car’s got your back—keeping the latch engaged and preventing that dreaded “door‑in‑face” mishap. Straight‑up, it saves you from a literal (and potentially costly) lawsuit.
Takeaway
With the blend of tactile buttons and high‑tech controls, Lexus offers a smooth, safe, and almost playful driving experience. It’s the perfect marriage of nostalgia and innovation—just don’t let them test those door latches in front of actual cyclists!
Catch‑the‑Future: Lexus’ Transmission Gets a Prius‑Style Makeover
What’s Changed (and Why It’s Fun to Drive)
Think of a sleek, stubby block that sits just ahead of the drivetrain buttons. If you want to roll around on pure electric power, you simply tap EV Mode—no extra knobs, no extra fuss.
- Quick Switch-to-Mode – Forget the old drive‑mode selector switch. Now you grab the touchscreen or the steering‑wheel pads to hit Eco Mode (yes, the same little touch‑sensitive pads that lane the current NX).
- Lazy‑but‑Smart Design – The transmission panel’s new “Prius‑like” layout means fewer buttons to pick up, and more freedom to focus on the road (and maybe the latte you just ordered).
- Adapting Takes a Minute – Even seasoned Lexus drivers feel a gentle learning curve. But hey, every great adventure starts with a new map.
In short, Lexus is giving its users a fancier, cleaner way to switch gears—literally—while staying as approachable as ever. Get ready to feel the thrill of a fresh, electric‑first experience each time you hit the open road.
Get Ready for the Borneo‑Packaged RX 350h – It’s An “Executive” iPhone & Other Surprises!
Heads up, car‑lovers! The RX 350h is creeping into Borneo, but it comes in two flavors: the Basic Executive and the Luxurious Upscale package. The market’s still a bit shy about the full spec sheet, so brace yourself for some speculation, but here’s what we think you’ll love.
Must‑Have Tech (Because Who Needs a USB‑C Hub Anyway?)
- Apple CarPlay – Imagine your iPhone sliding into your car’s screen like a perfect match.
- Android Auto – For the Google‑savvy junkies, your phone becomes the cockpit.
- Wireless Charging Pad – Wave goodbye to cables and say hello to effortless power.
Cool Comfort Features (Ventilated Seats, Because You Deserve a Breath of Fresh Air)
- Ventilated Driver Seat – Keep that hot shoulder sweat from turning into a full‑blown sauna.
- Ventilated Passenger Seat – Yes, the back folks get the same mercy. Everyone deserves a breeze!
- Standard in Singapore, Optional Elsewhere – Rumor has it Singapore drivers might get these by default. Keep your eyes peeled elsewhere.
Why Borneo Should Care
With hybrids taking the limelight, the RX 350h is Borneo’s sweet spot for eco‑friendly glam. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family picnic or just cruise around town, the combination of smart tech and stylish comfort makes this a car you’ll want to brag about on socials.
In short, Borneo’s RX 350h is a blend of techy wizardry and cozy comfort, going to keep your gadgets glued to the dashboard, your back legs refreshed, and your pockets a little lighter on gas. Keep an eye out, because the real excitement is just getting started!
Space and practicality
Lexus RX: Back Seat Edition
No More 7‑Seater? Not a Problem!
We’ve all seen the rumours about a seven‑seat RX L vanishing into thin air. Turns out the little sibling never got to join the family because it just didn’t mesh with Lexus’s vision of what the RX should be.
Still a Spacious SUV
Even without that extra seat, the RX remains a fine‑tuned giant. The cabin stays roomy, and the legs get a modest 12 mm of extra stretch. It’s a subtle tweak achieved by re‑mounting the seats and slimming down the front benches.
Why the 60 mm Wheel‑Base Tweaked?
The extra 60 mm added earlier was all about the rides – enhancing grip, stability, and that smooth “glide” you feel when the car takes the wheel. It’s like giving the vehicle a new pair of dancing shoes.
- More legroom = better comfort for the back‑seat crew
- Trimmed front seats = lighter weight, better balance
- Wheel‑base boost = improved steering feel and stability
Bottom line: the Lexus RX keeps its big, beautiful spirit, and the back passengers still enjoy a spacious, tech‑savvy ride, all while the car turns smoother than a jazz sax solo.
Is the RX Ready for Your Golf Trip?
Big Boot, Bigger Adventures
Forget wrestling the rear seat panels—Lexus has a button that throws them out like a magic trick. No gym membership required.
What the Numbers Say (or Don’t)
- No exact figure has been declared, but we’ve got clues from the smaller NX.
- The NX can haul 520 litres of luggage; likely the RX will match or beat that.
- Boot floor gains 50 mm in length and digs 30 mm lower, making loading a breeze.
Why It Matters
Longer and lower means your golf bags slip in faster and you avoid that awkward “one‑hand‑shake‑till‑boot‑opens” moment. Plus, if you’re a golf‑gear enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the extra space for clubs, shoes, and a spare golf glove collection.
Bottom Line
While the exact capacity is still under wraps, the RX’s rear fans are set to deliver a generous stash that promises less packing hassle and more swing time.
Inside the RX: Space that Rocks, Not a House on Wheels
No complaints about the front cabin space – the RX leaves you feeling roomy, not cramped.
Why the RX feels like a cozy room, not a giant car
- Not a monster: Unlike the Hyundai Staria’s “giant car” vibe, the RX doesn’t crush your personal space with its heft.
- Full‑on roominess: The cabin is generous on every side, giving you plenty of legroom and headroom.
- Comfy seats: The seats offer solid support and a pleasant cushion, making long trips feel like a breezy stroll.
Bottom line: the RX balances a nimble feel with the spaciousness you’d expect from a higher‑class vehicle – and it’s comfortable enough that you’ll want to stay in the front seat for days.
Driving experience
Why the RX 350h Is a Speed‑Sleek Superhero
The RX 350h strides into the fast lane like a calm, aerodynamic knight, even before the final paint job is applied. In its pre‑production state it proudly cruises at a comfortable 100 mph (just over 160 km/h). I won’t spill the secret of how I know that speed it can handle—let’s just say I’m not a car oracle.
Wind Noise: Silence in the Fast Lane
The wind at that velocity? Think of it as a gentle breeze rather than a roaring storm. The designers have done a stellar job of squeezing out the sneaky wind whispers that usually sneak in at high speeds. As a result, you’ll feel more like you’re gliding on silk than screaming into a wind tunnel.
Tire Rumble: The Road’s Mood Swings
- Smooth Asphalt – Your tires honk like a calm cat, barely rattling at all.
- Rough Pavement – There’s a melodic buzz, but it’s like the car’s saying, “I feel you, buddy.”
- Country Roads – Every bump becomes a quirky dance rhythm—almost whimsical.
In short, the RX 350h’s pre‑production wheel hustle isn’t just a mechanical feat; it’s a mood‑synchronizer for your ride. So, whether you’re aiming for that sweet speed or just craving a quiet drive, this car’s got you covered—without a hint of hidden mystery.
Lexus RX 350h: A Smooth Hybrid Ride
Ever felt your car try to belch its engine loudly just when you hit the gas? The RX 350h knows how to keep it under control.
Engine Personality
- The petrol engine can drone loudly when you twist the throttle hard—good thing you’re not chasing highways, otherwise it’ll feel like a loud cousin at the family reunion.
- At normal city speeds in Singapore, the car settles into a quiet groove, almost as if it’s sipping a latte instead of revving.
- Acceleration feels effortless for those who respect the pedal—no breathing room wasted.
Handling & Braking
- Transitioning between petrol and electric power is so seamless it’s like your car is doing a fancy magic trick.
- Braking does not become a spongy or grabby experience; you get the firm, confident feedback that helps you stay safe on wet roads.
- Lexus claims the car handles rocking good, turning challenging corners with the precision you’d expect from a small racing car—despite its large size.
Overall Feel
- The RX 350h feels like the most softly sprung version of three models we’re exploring, standing out for its smooth suspension.
- It isn’t super grippy, but it’s not sloppy either—think of it as a decent rider that doesn’t swipe the pavement.
- When you lean into a bend, the response is slick, showing a clear payoff from Lexus’s handling tweaks.
All in all, the RX 350h is that hybrid that brings comfort, confidence, and a dash of personality—all hanging out together in a roomy, confident package.
Revamp on the Rocks: The RX 350h’s Sneaky Chassis Make‑over
When engineers gave the chassis a whole lot of love—think chucking in extra stiffness, giving the suspension a makeover, widening those tracks, stretching the wheelbase, and a handful of other tweaks—it turned the RX 350h into a big‑size SUV that’s a breeze to drive.
Why the Chassis Gets Your Praise
- Stiffness Boost – It keeps the ride steady, so you feel like you’re piloting a sky‑diving plane instead of a bumpy boat.
- Suspension Redesign – Smooths out every pothole and custard surface into a velvet‑nap experience.
- Tracks Widened – Gives the car more grip, so you can confidently hug those turns.
- Wheelbase Lengthened – Attracts a stronger steering feel and a roomier interior.
- And the rest… – A cocktail of engineering tricks that keep everything behaving just right.
What That Means You…
The car’s “faithful response” means you can trust it that way: when you put the car in gear, it does exactly what you ask—no whiplash, no surprises.
Why It Might Feel Relaxing, Not Thrilling
If your standard is a “supersonic, needle‑point NASCAR” style, the RX 350h’s composure might seem soothing instead of shocking. It’s more tastefully calm than a wild stallion.
Competition and pricing
Lexus RX: The Unsung Hipster of the SUV Realm
While the big German rivals—Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Mercedes GLE—boast hefty bodies and seven‑seat options, the Lexus RX is the stoic, slightly smaller sidekick that keeps things interesting.
So why the buzz? The RX 350h isn’t just another SUV in the lineup; it’s a hybrid of muscle, mastersculpture, and a dash of efficiency.
- Compact power: Smaller than the German giants, it slips through tight city streets and tight parking spots like a prized calling card.
- Seven‑seat sibling: Those bulkier models can host seven people, but the RX decides it’s more about quality over quantity—a tighter cabin, a cozy ambience.
- Versatile vibe: Picture cruising in a hulking German SUV versus sailing around in the Lexus’s tasteful, sculpted cargo space—both nailing the stylish, agile performance you crave.
- Eco‑friendly edge: With the 350h hybrid setup, you get the same feel of an SUV but with smoother acceleration and less environmental drag.
In short, if the Lexus RX were competing against those German behemoths, it would be an indirect rivalry—more in style than sheer size. The result? A vehicle that feels refined, ready to roll, and ready to make a statement without shouting about horsepower.
Unveiling the RX 350h: A Price Tag That Won’t Leave Your Wallet in a Ruckus
Hold on tight, folks! Let’s dive into the numbers that might make your bank account feel a little lighter.
Why the RX 350h Is Your Up‑to‑Date, Budget‑Friendly Dream
- Executive version kicks off at roughly $350,000.
- That’s a solid $100,000 savings compared to the hefty BMW X5.
- Hit the high‑speed lane, and the RX 450h+ will push you just above the $400,000 mark.
- For the daredevils, the RX 500h may even carve its own sword‑sharpened path straight onto the German autobahn.
What All This Means for Your Next Car Fetch
Picture the RX 350h as the “fancy baller’s budget” – sleek, efficient, and still electric. Compared to the X5, you’re essentially buying a top‑tier SUV with an extra $100k to shower on future adventures or throw into a rainy fund. The plug‑in market isn’t huge, but that doesn’t stop the RX 500h from challenging the German heavyweights head‑on.
Conclusion
Lexus Revues the Luxury SUV: The New RX 500h
From a 1997 launch to a 2024 makeover, Lexus is proving that blending classic luxury with futuristic tech isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a roadmap. The fifth‑generation RX looks sharper, drives cleaner, and feels sneakily modern inside.
Back to the Beginning: The 1997 RX
Remember when Lexus bragged that it invented the luxury SUV? That claim was born with the first RX back in 1997, and the brand has been sharpening its edge ever since. Think of it as the “Grand Palm Springs” of SUVs that keeps getting better with every race‑car‑like upgrade.
That “Sharper” Look and Feel
- Bold lines that scream sophistication without shouting.
- New suspension tuning that whispers “comfort” and roars “performance.”
- Interior upgraded to cinematic‑grade with tech so sleek your friends will wonder if you’re driving a car or a spaceship.
Three Ways to Hybrid‑Like the Future
Lexus gave the world a hybrid on its very first SUV—the RX. And now, it’s spamming that petrol‑electric combo in three fun flavors:
- RX 350h – the standard hybrid that keeps the Lexus “classic” feel but keeps your fuel budget in check.
- Plug‑in RX 450h+ – for the eco‑savvy who want to sneak around in pure electric mode for a few miles before the battery whispers “needs a recharge.”
- High‑performance RX 500h – because if you’re going to own a luxury SUV, you might as well make it do back‑flips.
Still Feeling the “Classic” Lexus Charm
Even with all the tech, the entry‑level model stays true to the Lexus experience: calm, dependable, and edged with a luxury that feels like a warm hug from a very polite chauffeur.
For those who love a blend of old‑school respect and new‑school excitement, the new RX 500h is the answer. Trust us, it will make you feel like you’re living in the future while sipping a cup of tea.
