Lexus RX 350 is finally getting a three-row model in LA
Before just couple of weeks after the LA Auto Show, Lexus is getting ready to present its first stretch version of the long-serving RX crossover. The impuls for the three-row model has been an industry-wide rush to offer a third row of seats in midsize and full-size crossovers and SUVs, so it was only a matter of time before Lexus and Toyota felt pressured to do so in something other than the truck-like GX.
The RX 350L and the RX 450hL hybrid version won’t actually be stretched at the wheelbase
The RX 350L and the RX 450hL hybrid version, the latter which will arrive later in the year, won’t actually be stretched at the wheelbase — this was evidently undoable for engineering reasons — but will rather feature a longer D-pillar rear compartment and overhang. Essentially, the RX will carve out space by taking some from the cargo area and stretching the rear overhang by several inches to buy just enough room for two extra seats.
The RX 350L is expected to gain more room for a third row of seats via a longer rear section rather than a wheelbase stretch, as seen in our rendering.
In a way, it’s surprising that Toyota has avoided giving the RX a third-row option until now — you can bet that the next-gen model will be designed with the third row in mind since the RX now faces much stiffer competition from segment veterans and newcomers alike. Among those newcomers is the Volkswagen Atlas, which was designed with a third row from the beginning, as well as the newly redesigned Acura MDX and Volvo XC90.
Stay tuned for the RX 350L’s launch and much more from the LA Auto Show in just a couple weeks.
latest video
news via inbox
Nulla turp dis cursus. Integer liberos euismod pretium faucibua