Lexus RX 2010 – Lexus Ups the Ante With A Totally New RX

by Kelly Foss – www.car-data.com

The Lexus RX, to a certain degree, defined the luxury SUV/CUV market. This car-based vehicle is an excellent combination of Lexus luxury and dependability, good looks and versatility. Now, we have a totally new RX from Lexus.

When we first saw the new RX, it looked remarkably similar to the past generation and we asked the Lexus PR people why? Normally, when you redesign and introduce a model, it usually looks different. With some confidence they informed us that the current owners really liked the looks of the RX so they decided to make only slight alterations to its appearance. The RX is the best selling of all Lexus models and is the top seller in the midsize luxury SUV segment so who can argue with their logic.

Two RX models, the RX350 and the RX450h are offered. The 350 is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 and its 275 horsepower are more than enough to get you a speeding ticket if you’re not observant. The 450h is the hybrid model containing Lexus’ latest hybrid technology. Fuel economy is now rated at 28 city and 27 highway which is an 8% – 12% increase, while system horsepower has been boosted to 295. Both models are available with all wheel drive if desired.

The RX’s ride is both controlled and supple. We had the chance to drive the vehicle over winding 2 lane hill country roads and on a freeway cruise. The vehicle is very comfortable yet offers secure handling. The interior has been quieted which is a challenge for an SUV. Their open interior architecture tends to reverberate sound like an echo chamber.

Lexus has upgraded the safety systems of the vehicle. Active safety is improved with better stability and traction capability, optional radar cruise control and pre-safe systems. Additionally, the body of the vehicle has been strengthened and the air bag suite now includes knee airbags for the front passengers.

New technology abounds in the RX. You can pair up to 4 Bluetooth phones and download your contact list to the RX. The audio system can also play music from your smart phone using Bluetooth. The RX also offer dual rear entertainment system screens positioned on the seatbacks of the front seats. XM NavTraffic and NavWeather give you real-time traffic conditions and nationwide current weather reports for any location you choose.

The navigation system’s display screen has been place closer to the windshield and out of reach of the occupants. Lexus has added a joystick controller mounted between the front seats that looks and works like a computer mouse. The movement is intuitive and easy to control, unlike the frustrating experiences that owners of expensive German cars have with their similar devices.

The Lexus RX is improved by every measure and should continue its sales success.