Lexus RX makes family trips easier with flexible luggage space and ventilated seating

The Lexus RX has a substantial footprint, with its broad body and relatively low proportions giving it a planted stance. At nearly 4.9 metres long and 1.92 metres wide, it suits buyers who want a sizeable SUV, though those dimensions also deserve consideration when choosing a parking space in a busy shopping mall.

Ventilated seating in both rows is a useful comfort feature for Malaysia's hot weather, while separate rear automatic air-conditioning lets passengers set their own temperature. Both front occupants get powered adjustment, memory settings and adjustable lumbar support, making it easier to restore a preferred seating position. The 14-inch centre screen gives phone navigation a generous display area through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, bringing familiar apps into everyday journeys.

The 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine puts its emphasis on usable low- and mid-range torque. Its 430 Nm peak is available from 1,700 to 3,600 rpm, giving drivers access to the engine's full pulling force without chasing high revs when joining a highway or climbing a gradient. Paired with an eight-speed automatic, the 275 hp powertrain has an official 0–100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds—a sensible performance balance for a family-focused SUV.

The five-seat layout is backed by a useful 612-litre boot, giving families room for groceries and luggage on a balik kampung trip. For bulkier loads, the rear seats fold electrically to expand capacity to 1,678 litres. That flexibility makes it straightforward to switch between carrying passengers and handling larger purchases.

The safety equipment addresses several everyday driving situations. Forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking help manage hazards ahead, while blind-spot monitoring adds an extra check when changing lanes. Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assistance provide support on longer highway journeys, with the driver remaining responsible for control. Front, front-side and curtain airbags, together with a driver's knee airbag and child-seat mounting points, round out a family-oriented safety package.

The official combined WLTC consumption of 9.1 L/100 km translates to roughly 91 litres of petrol over 1,000 km under that test cycle. It gives buyers a practical starting point for planning fuel spending, with the eventual bill depending on pump prices, traffic and driving style. Fuel costs deserve a place in the monthly budget alongside the appeal of this petrol SUV.