SW17LS

Sure it has been. LS, GS, SC, IS, LC, RC...Lexus began headed in the right direction in terms of proper enthusiast platforms and then did a hard left into FWD tranverse-ville. Back when they debuted the 2GS they were downright class leading.

FastTurtle

I like it.

RNM GS3

Well they developed the RWD based platform and powertrain that LS500 uses - how hard is it to release a damn CUV using the existing parts. Its bonehead things like this that have continued to keep Lexus from being a top level brand.

You would think the additional CUV model would sell at least double the LS figures and help to spread the production costs of the development.

FastTurtle

Great point. Why do you think that is? Economics, price and/or target market?
I’m sure Lexus could either go after the BMW X5 M or the MDX Type S, if they wanted to.

AJT123

Absolutely.

I'm not really an RX guy but I do think it looks a lot better than the last one. I totally see why they sell a zillion of them.

JDR76

I think the RX500h F Sport Performance IS going after the MDX Type S.

Motorola

The Type S might be the one turbocharged 6-cylinder crossover that the 500h can outrun on a straight line.

FastTurtle

Except for the hybrid part. Acura may follow Lexus lead if the market is there.

Almost bought the MDX Type S lol The wife owns a ‘21 RDX A-Spec that small thing can go and fun to drive.

I’m happy with ‘22 GX. I like simple things and keeping things simple 😎

jwong77

I still standby my statement that this essentially looks like a refresh of the old car. Did they even bother to move it to the new architecture?

JDR76

Of course they did.

Tritonal

Yes, it's sitting on the new TNGA-K platform.

SW17LS

I just don't see that...the shape of the car is quite different.

RNM GS3

They are just lazy imo and Toyota JP, which makes all the decisions, doesn’t care about Lexus brand.
RWD based CUV would be superior product but the margins are better selling FWD based RX.

Lexus has not had much success in selling models over $65k - so the risk of failure is the only thing i can think of why no X5/GLE/Cayenne/Q7 competitor from Lexus exists.

Personally I think they are missing out on a lucrative niche and not raising the brand.

FastTurtle

Possibly lol depends on who you ask plays a big role.

Hybrids are getting quicker over the years!

sorptd

I like the overall design barring the upper part of grill. It’s nice to see Lexus developing some high powered hybrids with regular transmissions. Really looking forward to driving the 500h f sport with direct 4