Lexus RX drivers now have the power of three rows

The Lexus RX created the luxury crossover segment 20 years ago and has reigned supreme as the most popular luxury utility vehicle on the market. The 2018 RX350L and RX450hL models retain their stylish figures, but now offer the choice of six or seven-passenger capability. With the new RXL models, Lexus drivers will now have the option of a third row without compromising the sleek styling and easy manoeuvrability that they have long valued.

With help through the mastery of vehicle packaging, Lexus extended the body length by 110mm at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle than on the two-row models - ensuring good headroom for third-row passengers.

Lexus designed the third row of the RXL models to offer the same comfort and luxury as in the middle row. The positioning of the second row is slightly higher than the third row, creating more legroom for rear passengers.

Standard leather-trimmed upholstery is standard for the first and second rows, in the choice of Black, Stratus Gray, Parchment or Noble Brown.

A tri-zone climate control system gives third-row passengers separate heating and air-conditioning vents, and for convenience, a power-folding third-row seat and power tailgate are both standard on the RXL models. Details that enhance three-row versatility in the RXL models include a flat load floor behind the folded third row, two third-row cupholders, an easily stowable tonneau and covered slide rails.

The 2018 Lexus RX350L offers plenty of power to go with its six or seven-passenger cabin and added cargo capacity. The 3.5-litre V6 employs the advanced D-4S fuel injection system, which combines direct and port fuel injection systems. To maximise efficiency, Variable Valve Timing - Intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) is used on the intake camshaft, along with VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft, allowing the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles.

The result is 289bhp and 357Nm of torque, with performance and efficiency optimised by an eight-speed automatic transmission.