RX 300 Reviewed by Thailand’s Bangkok Post

RX 300 fails to offer a suitable engine for the Thai market when compared to its European rivals.

The RX 300 has spread its wings far across the globe. In markets like Thailand, you can find the same luxury available here in the states. But, how successful has it been in the land of kickboxing and curry?

The Bangkok Post recently took the time to dive into what to expect from the 2019 RX 300 in Thailand. If you intend to live it up in Phuket with coconut curry and luxury crossovers, they’ve got you covered in their latest review.

Interior

“After being stung with criticism about an infotainment with controls that are fiddly to use, Lexus has added a conventional touchscreen function apart from the usual fingertip control pad,” says the Bangkok Post. “The decision to update the infotainment is timely. Although not perfect yet, it’s easier to use now that there’s fingertip control on the screen as well.”

“While the interior still looks suitably premium, the fascia and console feel dated with buttons strewn all over the place and those analog speedo and tacho readouts.” continues the Bangkok Post.

With “cool-air ventilation up front and electrical reclining function in the rear,” you have an SUV truly focused on passenger comfort.

Performance

“The four-cylinder gas-turbo (RX 300), naturally aspirated V6 (RX 350) and V6 hybrid (RX 450h),” carry over from the previous model year. Much to the dismay of Thai locals.

“While turbocharging is here to stay with downsized combustion engines,” says the Bangkok Post “the RX 300 isn’t economical on fuel. Don’t blame the absence of hybrid tech, the automatic still has only six forward ratios.” The Post further adds that “The engine range, as well, isn’t competitive in this country since all European rivals have punchy yet frugal diesels to choose,” 

The Bangkok Post feels that handling improvements are a bit far-fetched, stating “it’s hard to note any change. Making the RX, as ever, more casual than sharp under quick changes in steering direction.”

The Post did, however, have a few good things to say about the suspension. “The ride is equally cossetting on most road conditions in this country and the turbo engine provides quick and refined pace at most times.” 

For those of us with limited vocabularies, to cosset means to pamper. You and your pampered tush are welcome. 

Appearance

“The overall shape of the RX remains distinctive with a more ‘crossover’ look like in the Jaguar F-Pace and Range Rover Velar.” says the Bangkok Post. “The Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90, on the other hand, have tall ‘SUV’ packages.”

Compared to its competitors, the RX has much more of the compact SUV look we’ve come to love here in the states.

Conclusion

All in all, the Bangkok Post feels the RX 300 leaves something to be desired in their particular market. “Lexus has a four-cylinder gas-electric hybrid in several other models, but such a powertrain strangely never made its way into the RX on a global basis.”

“Lexus is focusing on the RX 300 with three trims: Luxury at 4.23 million baht ($139k) Premium at 4.74 million baht ($156k) and F Sport… at 5.35 million baht ($176k),” says the Post. “Despite its popularity in markets like the US, the RX never had an easy time in Thailand due to its relatively high prices caused by punitive import tax and brand pedigree not as posh as a Bimmer or Merc.”

Unfortunately for the RX 300, the cons outweigh the pros in Thailand. “The RX’s fine levels of daily comfort and usability is actually what buyers really like… The RX is now in the second half of its current generation, but it still feels incomplete.”

Photos: Bangkok Post