2012 Lexus RX On Sale In Australia, RX 270 Introduced

Lexus has released its updated RX SUV line-up to the Australian market this week, bringing enhanced styling and features, and introducing a new entry-level model, the front-wheel-drive RX 270.

Priced at $69,990, the RX 270 cuts $12,000 from the price of entry to the RX line-up. The RX 350 is now priced at $77,900, and the updated RX 450h enters at $82,900.

New to the range is the Lexus 'Spindle' grille design. Also new is that the RX 350 and RX 450h can be specified with F Sport styling and handling packages.

Lexus promises a more engaging drive in the new RX models thanks to a revised chassis, new suspension calibration and, in the F Sport models, performance-focused dampers.

Watch for TMR Managing Editor Tim O'Brien's review of the new RX range this week.

Mechanical Package

New to the Australian RX range is the entry-level RX 270, driven by a 2.7 litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 138kW and 252Nm of torque.

Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the RX 270 is available in front-wheel-drive form only and lists fuel consumption figures at 9.7 l/100km.

Powertrain options for the RX 350 petrol and RX 450h hybrid models remain unchanged for 2012.

In RX 350 form, power is provided by the familiar 3.5 litre 204kW and 346Nm petrol V6, with fuel consumption rated at 10.8 l/100km on the combined cycle. Carbon emissions are listed at 254g/km.