Lexus RX L review

If the Lexus RX L was used as an inspiration for a remake of Alphaville’s Big in Japan, the title of the song would have to change to Big in the USA. While it doesn’t quite have the same ring to it, it’s true that the RX is something of a superstar across the pond.

Since the first RX was introduced back in 1998, it has been the most successful Lexus model to date. Here in the UK, though, despite benefiting from industry-leading tech and offering buyers impressive build quality, each generation of the luxury SUV has been held back by one fatal flaw: a lack of seven-seat versatility.

In a market occupied by the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90 – all of which offer larger families a third row of seats – this was an oversight that required correction.

Cue the RX L. From the outside, it looks more or less identical to the standard Lexus RX, but take a peek inside and you’ll find an extra row of seats in the rear. Surprisingly, no more space has been added between the front and rear wheels to lengthen the interior (the tail has been stretched slightly instead).

In the UK, there’s only one engine available, a 3.5-litre V6 that’s augmented by a couple of electric motors fed by a battery pack in the rear. That means low claimed emissions for a squeaky clean conscience and smaller fuel bills than a conventional petrol-powered luxury SUV. At a time when electrification seems to be the buzzword, a petrol-hybrid SUV might be just the car for you.

Over the next few pages of this review, we’ll let you know what the Lexus RX L is like to drive and be driven in, plus which trim makes the most sense and how it compares with some of its rivals.

Remember, if you're looking to buy a new vehicle, regardless of the make and model, we can help you save thousands of pounds off the list price. All you have to do it visit the free What Car? New Car Buying pages, where you'll find some tantalising Lexus RX deals.