Car Review: New Lexus SUV a winner

Jun. 16—Most changes in the Lexus lineup of cars and SUVs are done in gentle touches here and there to not alarm loyal consumers who value the image — like the Mercedes look that remains instantly recognizable over the years.

Imagine our surprise when the new TX500h F Sport was delivered without the large spindle grille the car company has been known for. Not only is the mammoth grille gone, but its replacement is made up of body-colored horizontal open strips — something you might see on an electric.

We're not sorry to see the old grille abandoned, even if it's just for this new SUV. The TX is a unibody construction that came on the scene just after parent company Toyota introduced the Grand Highlander. Both share the same underpinnings, while the Lexus version has undergone all the niceties that are synonymous with Lexus quality, ride, comfort and price point.

TX trims fit nicely in the company's SUV offerings. The LX and GX are body-on-frame and ride like trucks and the RX-L has been discontinued. Lexus offers the TX in three trim levels: base TX ($55.050), TX 500h F sport ($69,350) and TX plug-in Hybrid ($78,050). The base TX is powered by a turbo 2.4-liter, 275 horsepower while our tester featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, six speed automatic with two electric motors, one for all-wheel drive and the other for added horsepower to make 366 ponies — like Toyota's Hybrid Max.

The F Sport has more of a performance bent than the others with a stiffer suspension that reacts to bumps in the road instead of absorbing all road imperfections. Our independent testing of the TX Hybrid from a dead stop to 60 miles per hour continuously scored 5.8 seconds, like the Grand Highlander that weighs 185 pounds less. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Driving impressions of the TX are stellar. It is one of the few vehicles that delivers a silky ride in all weather conditions. Road noise rarely makes its way into the hushed cabin. All seating surfaces are draped in soft leathers and offer comfort on lengthy road trips or tooling around to the corner market. Shifts are seamless and the radar cruise control connected with lane trace assist keeps the Lexus centered at all times. A nice touch.

The TX can be configured for six or seven passengers — the latter obtained with a second-row bench seat. Third row bucket-like seats replace typical bench seats in other vehicles while offering more room for adults.

Lexus interior amenities are unmatched. A massive 14-inch infotainment screen opens a plethora of adjustments in audio, cabin climate, voice-controlled navigation and infinite settings for lights, ventilation by rows, key fob and heads-up display adjustments.

First and second row passengers have massive cupholders that can be removed to store small items. Door panel storage is generous all around and passengers enjoy plenty of leg, shoulder and headroom — even in third row positions with power adjustments to raise or lower both for more storage.

We managed to fit four sets of golf clubs end to end with room left for luggage and groceries.

Toyota's proven reliability backs up this new Lexus for worry free driving.

Contact independent automotive columnist Len Ingrassia at [email protected].