RX Redesign Expresses Lexus’s New Stylish Philosophy
Remember when Lexus used to be known for being an affordable yet classy alternative to the pricey German luxury brands? For some of you, that may still be the case, but Lexus doesn’t want that to be the norm anymore.
Did you notice that dramatic hourglass grille and the aggressive lines on the newly designed RX? Sure is striking, don’t you think? Well that’s the idea: to be stricken with style.
According to a Kelly Blue Book story, Lexus is betting on a bolder, striking style, which is symbolically evident in the next gen RX. The boys upstairs, from Mr. Toyoda on down, aren’t just going to sit around and enjoy the global success they’ve had with the proven, subtle designs you’ve come to love. No, they’re “pushing to wow the marketplace,” according to Jeff Bracken, Group Vice President and General Manager, Lexus Division.
Mega Gallery: 2016 Lexus RX Revealed at New York International Auto Show >>
From the GS, to the RC Coupe, to the NX, to the RX, we’ve gotten a taste of this wowing. So here’s the question: as a long-time Lexus enthusiast, do you like the new style? It’s safe to say the answers will vary as much as the reactions in this Club Lexus thread that has been keeping track of the 4th gen RX since before it was officially introduced, back in April at the New York International Auto Show.
In the interview with KBB, Bracken explains why such a progressive new style is necessary for Lexus to grow as a brand, despite the fact that it has ticked off some Lexus loyalists. “We know [the new design philosophy] can be polarizing and we know we can upset our real traditional owners, but if we don’t do that, we can’t open the minds or attract folks to us who would have never considered us. The downside of losing some of our loyal followers will be way offset by people who look at us because of that design.”
The RX is such an important, segment defining vehicle that the wowing design changes in the new generation become a symbol for the whole brand. It’s the flagship car. And this is now the flagship design. This is Lexus. And the beginning of a bold new adventure in design.
We hope you like it, because you’ll be seeing more of it.
Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>
via [Kelly Blue Book]
