- by Brian Byrne
Lexus RX300 for Ireland in May
07 March 2003: The next-generation Lexus RX300 which received its European debut at this week's Geneva Motor Show (above) will be available to Irish buyers in May.
The RX300 is the world’s best selling premium SUV and the new car is bigger, roomier, more powerful and more fuel efficient than the outgoing model.
It has a more sporty look, with design cues from the IS SportCross, and will feature more advanced technology on a number of fronts, including the provision of a knee-airbag, the first SUV in Europe to have this.
Other features include a 5-speed sequential shift automatic, a more powerful version of the outgoing car's 3-litre V6 petrol engine, and a petrol/electronic RX300 hybrid will follow.
A new driveline, utilising front/rear torque distribution electronically controlled by the traction control system (TRC), replaces the previous mechanical limited slip differential, to provide smooth traction even if the throttle pedal is used roughly.
Wind and noise levels are claimed to be the lowest in the class, and fuel consumption is a full 7 per cent lower than in the previous model.
Lexus owners will be able to participate in private viewing sessions that will be held throughout the country in April.
©2003 irishcar.com