Like models who want to act, actors who aspire to direct, and directors who really think they should be producers, the auto industry is restless. Take the Lexus RX. Launched here in 1998, its dossier includes a crowd-pleasing combination of virtues: plush environs, a cosseting ride, elevated seating, a modicum of versatility, and all-weather tractability. Far and away the brand’s bestselling vehicle, the RX boasts “legions of repeat buyers,” according to Lexus chief Mark Templin. Given that, you might think that with the all-new, fourth-generation RX, the company would be satisfied to build on the vehicle’s strengths. Instead, Lexus casts an envious eye toward BMW— which, ironically, has been making its vehicles more Lexus-like of late.
Lexus wants the new RX to be seen as more youthful, more masculine, sportier,…