The notion of a three-row version of the Lexus RX has been around for some time, and we’ve even sighted a prototype of such a model in the past. We’ll only need to wait a few more days to see the finished product, as the carmaker has announced the RX L will make its debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.
These images of the car’s taillight are all we get to see for now, and both don’t appear to be that much different from what you’ll find on the standard RX. Based on previous spyshots, we know the RX L will get revised bodywork to accommodate the extra row of seat, featuring a longer rear overhang and a more upright rear window.
Lexus is introducing the RX L with two different powertrains and matching variant names – RX 350L and RX 450hL – the latter being a hybrid as suggested by the ‘h’. It will likely use the same setup found in the regular RX 450h, which includes a 3.5 litre V6 Atkinson cycle 2GR-FXS engine and an electric motor for a system combined output of 308 hp.
As for the RX 350L, expect a 2GR-FKS 3.5 litre V6 engine with 295 hp and 370 Nm of torque. The naturally-aspirated engine comes with VVT-iW, and is paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The RX L will expand Lexus’ line-up of three-row SUVs to three vehicles, with the other two being the GX and LX. However, where the RX L is built on a unibody chassis, the GX and LX are based on a body-on-frame design with big engines (GX 460 gets 4.6L V8, LX 570 gets a 5.7L V8). This could appeal to customers who want better fuel economy as well as more car-like dynamics.
GALLERY: Lexus RX L prototype spyshots
GALLERY: Lexus RX 350 F Sport
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