The first generation Lexus RX (then it was a "compact crossover"), which appeared in 1998, was conceived as a car for North America, where crossovers were actively gaining popularity at that time. But two years after the start of sales, the Japanese decided to bring the new product to Europe and they did not lose - the Lexus RX XU10 perfectly fit into the needs of European buyers, bringing the Japanese automaker a considerable profit.
The exterior of the 1-generation Lexus RX is based on the SLV (Sport Luxury Vehicle) concept car shown in Chicago in early 1997. For its time, the crossover turned out to be quite dynamic, stylish and partly sporty, which attracted increased public attention, ensuring a high level of sales.
In terms of dimensions, the novelty belonged to the class of compact crossovers, having 4574 mm in length before restyling and 4580 mm after the update in 2001. The width and height of the body did not change during the entire production time of the first generation Lexus RX XU10 and amounted to 1816 and 1669 mm, respectively. But the wheelbase grew after the total length from 2616 mm in 1998 to 2619 mm in 2001.
The ground clearance (clearance) of the 1st generation Lexus RX was 190 mm.
From the very first day, the five-seater Lexus RX has been striving to surprise the world with maximum proximity to the premium segment.
The Japanese offered comfortable front seats with 8-way adjustments and lateral support, climate control, high-quality audio system and other goodies that were previously available mainly only to top sedans.
The trunk was also roomy enough for a compact crossover, capable of swallowing up to 490 liters of cargo.
Specifications. The first generation Lexus RX was equipped with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder gasoline unit with a 24-valve DOHC timing, distributed fuel injection and, for the first time on crossovers, a variable valve timing system. All this allowed the Japanese to provide the engine with 223 hp. maximum power at 5600 rpm and 301 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.
The engine was aggregated with a 4-band "automatic".
As a chassis for the first generation Lexus RX300, the Japanese used the platform of their junior luxury sedan Lexus ES 300 with independent MacPherson-type suspension front and rear, disc brakes (ventilated in front) and power steering.
The Lexus RX (XU10) was available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, powered by a center-to-center clutch.
The production of the first generation of the crossover continued until 2003, after which it was replaced by the second generation RX.
