New car sales price | Lexus RX 270 X

Lexus Australia has launched a special edition RX 270 with a range of ‘extras’ usually seen only on higher grade models.

The Lexus RX 'X' Special Edition package is based on the RX 270, the entry model in the RX range. It is being produced in limited numbers, with just 300 destined for the Australian market. Styling changes in the special edition are achieved by the use of the RX Sports Luxury front bumper; 19-inch alloy wheels and 'X' exterior badges.

VALUE

Lexus Australia tells us the upgrades give over $7000 in added value, but it sells for the same recommended retail price of $69,400 as the base grade RX 270.

TECHNOLOGY

Inside you will find heated front seats; a Smart Key Card, that fits in a wallet or purse, cleverly it even lets the driver open the doors and start the engine if the Smart Key batteries are flat; Head Up Display that projects important information on the windscreen, such as speed, satellite navigation directions, gear position and audio settings; and a luggage tray for stowing items and protecting cargo area trim.

Externally, the Lexus RX 270 ‘X’ package provides Clearance and Back Sonar to assist when parking in tight spaces; an Adaptive Front lighting System, this swivels the headlamps when travelling around tight bends; and Illuminated scuff plates.

A year ago Lexus gave its popular RX range of SUVs a mid-life facelift. Even more important was the introduction of a 2WD model for the first time. Tagged the RX 270 it had a four-cylinder engine, previously all Lexus RX models came with all-wheel-drive and a V6 engine.

The lighter weight of the RX 2WD (that drives through the front wheels) means there was less loss in performance than you might expect given the smaller engine.

Lexus cars are about comfort, quietness and refinement and the Lexus RX 270 certainly doesn’t disappoint. The Lexus RX range has significantly less ground clearance than the typical crossover. This means it has road holding and ride comfort closer to that of a station wagon than an SUV.

INTERIOR

Interior materials and the quality of fit and finish of the body and cabin are immaculate in all models and the entry level RX 270 certainly doesn’t miss out.

Interior room in one of the RX wagons is good for two adults and three children, but three adults in the back seats starts to squeeze their friendship. Boot space is reasonable considering the stylish slope of the rear window, but carrying boxy items can be a problem. The rear seat has a handy 40/20/40 split.

COLOURS

The RX 270 'X' Special Edition is available in five exterior colours: White Pearl, Mercury Grey, Premium Silver, Starlight Black and Garnet Red, and two interior colours: Ivory and Black.