How To Test-Drive the Audio System in a Used Car

Educated used-car buyers know it's important to test-drive a vehicle before making a purchase, as well as to have it thoroughly inspected by a professional mechanic. Edmunds.com provides guidance on what to look for when buying a used car, and most auto manufacturers offer online certified pre-owned vehicle inspection checklists.

But rarely does a used-car shopper put the audio system through its paces during a test-drive — other than maybe just making sure it turns on. And a buyer may typically turn off the radio in order to listen for unusual noises from the engine or drivetrain.

Yet an in-car entertainment system may be your constant companion while you're behind the wheel. Before you buy, you'll likely check that the seats are comfortable, the pedal positions are a good fit and the controls all work. So it's only prudent to take the audio system for a spin, too.

By taking a few minutes to pay attention to the stereo system, you can get an idea of the performance and condition of the audio components — and possibly avoid disappointment and costly repairs down the road. The testing is easy and requires no special tools other than your eyes and ears.

Do a Visual Inspection
While checking out the exterior of a vehicle, pay attention to the radio antenna. Is it broken, missing or barely hanging on? If the car has a power antenna, does it work? Or is it permanently retracted or extended?

While checking out the interior, make sure the radio, speakers and speaker grilles are in place. Check to see whether these items are poorly installed and if any obvious parts are missing.

It's quite common for someone to remove an aftermarket sound system when trading in or selling a vehicle. And even if the original owner doesn't do so, a dealership will often take out aftermarket electronics, according to several dealers we spoke with. Dealers prefer a factory appearance for their used-car inventory. They also don't want to tempt thieves by leaving aftermarket electronic equipment on the lot after hours.

Look for Telltale Signs
You can check to see whether a different audio system was previously installed in a vehicle by looking for such telltale signs as aftermarket wiring for amplifiers and speakers that have been left behind. It can also be obvious when inexpensive, low-quality equipment was installed just to fill the holes left by previous gear. Look for ill-fitting car-stereo components or mismatched speakers.

If you suspect that a system was previously installed, you may want to look behind trim panels, under the dash and in the trunk for possible damage to the car. Stock wiring and parts like panel clips could have become a casualty of an amateur or hack installer. There also may be unplugged screw holes that could leak fumes or water into the vehicle, or metal panels that may have been cut to install larger speakers.

To gauge the age and condition of the speakers, get a good look at them either through the grilles or from inside the trunk, if possible. Speakers often deteriorate from sun exposure when they have been installed on the dash or rear deck, and door speakers are susceptible to water damage. Keep an eye out for small, brittle pieces of foam and other material that can fall from speakers. If the speakers have deteriorated that badly, you may be replacing them soon.

Take the Systematic Approach
Making sure the audio system operates as it should only takes a few minutes and is easy to do if you follow a systematic approach. First, power up the head unit to verify it turns on and creates sound. If there is a power antenna, make sure it operates properly.

Next, check to see whether the head unit display works the way it should. Then turn on the headlights and see if the backlighting also illuminates. Be sure to check the clock and radio presets to confirm they are working, and give radio functions like seek and scan a quick check as well.

Now, perform a simple check of all speakers individually at normal volume to narrow down possible problems with a bad speaker or amplifier channel. Start by fading the system all the way to the rear, and then move the balance all the way to the left and then to the right. Then fade the system to the front and repeat the process. If the system has a multi-component speaker setup, such as a speaker in the door and a separate tweeter in the dash, you may have to put your ear close to the tweeter to verify that it's operating.

Bring along a CD that you're familiar with to check CD player functions and then give the system a good listen at normal volume levels. If the head unit has an auxiliary input, iPod integration or such functions such as video or navigation, it's a good idea to give those a quick check as well. This is also a good time to ask if an owner's manual is available for the car or the system. This lets you familiarize yourself with the features.

Perform a Sound Check
With the basic functions checked, you can move to an actual "sound check" of the audio system. First, perform a radio reception test to make sure the radio tunes in the stations it should. This is really nothing to get worked up over unless there's zero reception.

Start the engine and listen for any engine-related noises coming through the speakers, such as whining or ticking sounds that change with the engine rpm. If such noises are present, poor wiring or a defective component may be the culprit.

Next, listen to the system with familiar music. Use normal volume while parked and louder volume while driving to see how the system performs with road noise. Listen closely for any speakers that sound distorted or are making crackling or scratching sounds. In most cases, this indicates a blown speaker, although it's also possible that distortion could be coming from other components in the system.

Finally, ask yourself whether you will enjoy this sound system over the long haul, or whether a post-purchase trip to a car stereo store is in your future.

Use Problems as Leverage
Problems you discover while test-driving the audio system on a used vehicle may not ultimately make or break your purchase. However, you may be able to use any problems you find as leverage for negotiating a lower price, or free or discounted repairs if you're buying from a dealership.


Article featured at http://www.edmunds.com/ownership/audio/articles/164207/article.html

2010 Lexus RX 350 Sets the Bar Anew

BY CLARE DEAR, NATIONAL POST; CANWEST NEWS SERVICE JUNE 17, 2010

The Lexus RX 350 launched the luxury crossover category when it was introduced in 1998 (as the RX 300) and has continued to be, for many, the standard by which models in its class are judged.

Built in Cambridge, Ont., the RX 350 has been redesigned for 2010, and although this third-generation model is all new, it's still immediately recognizable as an RX.

The styling is evolutionary, retaining the distinctive design DNA that over the years has attracted more than a million buyers, yet it also conveys a degree of freshness that will help the RX keep pace with its competition.

The front end has a slightly wider look, while the rear fenders have a subtle flare that gives the vehicle a sporty edge. On the liftgate, which was power-assisted on the Touring-equipped tester, there's a functional roof spoiler that not only houses the radio antenna and high-mounted brake light, it also neatly conceals the rear wiper. That placement also affords the wiper some protection from the elements.

The interior is what you'd expect from Lexus -- all the luxury and convenience buyers in this category demand, as well as top-quality fit and materials, including supple perforated grey leather seat coverings on the tester, with matching leather trim on the steering wheel and shifter knob.

There are also maple wood accents on the steering wheel and shifter as well as the centre console. Together, it all makes the cabin look very classy.

Lexus employs a Smart-Access keyless entry system in the RX -- a feature I found handy when approaching the vehicle at night or with arms full of groceries. Come within range and the interior lights illuminate, as do the puddle lights integrated into the side mirrors. The doors unlock automatically and the instrument panel softly comes to life as the door is opened. As well, the power-adjustable driver's seat, which retreats about 50 millimetres when the ignition is shut off , automatically resumes its previous driving position. I especially appreciated the memory system on the tester, which allowed me to regain my seat and mirror settings at the push of a button after my vertically challenged spouse had been occupying that perch. A power adjustable tilt and telescopic steering column also scored well at our house.

One new innovation for 2010 is the Remote Touch system, a mouse-like controller mounted on the centre console. It fits naturally into your hand and lets you navigate through various systems such as climate control, audio and navigation. I'm not particularly savvy when it comes to high-tech equipment, but this system is so intuitive even I managed to master it.

In the rear, the seatbacks of the 60/40-split bench not only recline, the entire seat can be adjusted fore and aft to increase passenger comfort or boost cargo space. This latest iteration of the RX has been fitted with a double-wishbone rear suspension, which increases the amount of space in the cargo area. Overall, there's 40 cubic feet of space for stuff with the rear seats upright and double that amount with the seatbacks folded flat.

While the difference may not be noticed by everyone, the new RX is bigger than its predecessor, the powertrain has been revamped, there's a new transmission and the engine has been refined to improve responsiveness, power and fuel efficiency. With its attractive styling, high quality and impressive features, the 2010 RX 350 continues to set the bar for luxury crossovers.
THE SPECS

2010 LEXUS RX 350

Type of vehicle: All-wheel-drive luxury crossover

Engine: 3.5L DOHC V-6

Power: 275 h.p. at 6,200 r.p.m.; 257 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,700 r.p.m.

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

Brakes: Power discs with ABS

Tires: P235/60R18 mud and snow

Price: $46,900 base, $54,900 as tested

Destination charge: $1,895

Transport Canada fuel economy (L/100 km): 11.6 city, 8.2 hwy.

Standard features: Dual-zone automatic climate control with cabin air filter and rear-seat heat ducts, AM/FM audio system with MP3 capability, six-disc, in-dash CD changer, Bluetooth, automatic sound leveller, XM satellite radio and nine speakers, premium fabric seat surfaces, eight-way power-adjustable front seats with power lumbar support, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat with sliding fore/ aft adjustment and recline, power locks and windows with auto up/down feature, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass, rear privacy glass, cargo net, mat and tonneau cover and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

Lexus scores big May sales despite safety recalls

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2010/06/lexus-scores-big-may-sales-despite-lingering-safety-issues/1

Report on the Lexus sales numbers for the month of May.

Quotes from the story:

Toyota's spillover of its safety problems to the Lexus luxury division don't appear to be hurting sales. While sales of Toyota-branded vehicles increased only 3.6% last month, Lexus sales soared 31.3%. Lexus had its best sales month of the year.

Lexus U.S. sales chief Mark Templin says he believes his customers understand that mechanical problems can happen, and they measure a brand by how it responds. The continuing strong sales are a reflection of customers' belief in the brand, he adds.

Lexus' sales increase was due to higher sales of its ES sedan, 24% over last May. The IS entry luxury sports sedan reported combined sales of 3,247 units, up 11.5% over the same period last year. Lexus light trucks saw sales increase 27.2%. Lexus Division sales were led by the RX 350 and RX 450h, which reported combined May sales of 9,116 units, up 22.2% over the year-ago month. With May sales of 1,413 units, GX luxury SUV posted a gain of 111.5% over the same period last year.

F Sport Price Breaks

Hey speed freaks: June and July is get-yourself-a-new-Lexus time. The folks at Lexus are offering a few F Sport performance upgrades at lower prices from this week to the end of July, from lowering springs and sway bars to custom wheels and high-performance brakes.

If you already know what the Lexus F Sport options are all about, then you’ll know that these aftermarket performance parts aren’t just for show: they actually add quantifiable handling and ride capabilities (read: oomph) to the IS, IS C, and GS.

The deals come in three packages. There’s a “Z3” suspension kit package, which includes lowering springs, performance shocks (made by Lexus and Bilstein®, the leading racing-parts supplier), and anti-sway bars that reduce body movement for flatter, more agile cornering. The package costs $1,450, which is almost 30 percent off the typical installation price.

A second package, the “Z4” kit, gets you the Z3 suspension upgrades plus larger, high-performance wheels and tires. The IS 250 AWD gets forged 18-inch wheels with Yokohama 225/40R18 Advan S.4. all-season performance tires, while the other models get forged 19-inch wheels on Michelin 225/35ZR19 tires up front and 19-inch forged wheels on 255/35R19 Pilot Sport PS2 tires in the rear. Package cost is $4,495—more than a full quarter off the normal price with installation.

The third package, the “Z5”—and our favorite—includes all of the above plus snazzy F Sport fender badges and the F Sport High Performance Brake Upgrade, which, among other improvements, delivers a firmer brake “feel” and increased durability after repeated use. This one goes for $8,995, which is also more than a quarter off the typical cost with installation.

So what’s up with these price breaks? Basically, it’s the F Sport line’s two-year anniversary. We’re fans of the F Sport line because, in a world of cheaply made aftermarket parts, these Lexus upgrade options hold their own as top-tier custom parts that actually make a real difference in performance. If you own, or are thinking about buying, an IS, IS C, or GS, make sure to take a look at the full line of F Sport accessories.

—LUKE DRINGOLI, Lexus Magazine

Why choose Tom Wood Lexus?

Because we've been serving and satisfying customers for more than 40 years...

1-Complimentary car wash with every service visit
2-Extended service hours plus Saturday service
3-ASE Certified and Lexus factory trained technicians
4-Complete and comprehensive vehicle inspections
5-State of the art service department
6-Tom Wood is Indiana's #1 volume Lexus certified dealership
7-12/12 limited warranties on all certified vehicles
8-Courtesy transportation

Plus...all the benefits of Lexus certified vehicle ownership!

1-Buy like new: stringent 161 point inspection process
2-Complete reconditioning
3-Drive like new: 3 year, 100,000 total vehicle mile limited warranty on every certified pre-owned Lexus
4-New vehicle finance/lease rates and terms
5-24-hour roadside assistance
6-Free first certified service: oil change, vehicle inspection, and road test
7-Free loaner vehicle for qualifying warranty and maintenance service (by appt only)
8-Free pickup and delivery within service area

Late Night Parking Safety

Its funny how mundane day-to-day tasks can leave us full of anxiety when we must conduct them under the guise of night. One activity that no doubt can create some anxiety is parking and returning to your car in an empty street or car parking lot. This can also be a frequent experience with working late at work or returning home after a late night out with friends. Fortunately there are some simple tips you can take note of to keep an eye on your safety and make yourself feel more secure the next time you make a late night trip.

Tips for parking your car late at night

-Try to park your car in a well-lit, busy area.

-When parking in more secluded places, make sure to look around before getting out of your vehicle.

-Do not leave your car in parking lots where attendants leave vehicle doors unlocked or request to hold your keys. If you must, leave only your ignition key.

-Ask the parking attendant whether the lot will still be attended to and well-lit when you return.

-When parking in large underground or enclosed lots be extra cautious of the surroundings. Walk in the center aisles rather than between the parked cars. If you have the choice, park in lots that have security patrols or an attendant. Areas that have heavy pedestrian or vehicle traffic would also be preferred.

-When parking in any type of lot, try to park close to a walkway or building entrance. Always avoid parking far away from others.

-Be aware of your environment before exiting your vehicle. Turn off your engine, listen for any sounds. Use your mirrors to help scan the area.

Tips for returning to your car late at night

-Upon approaching your vehicle be aware of your surroundings. The best possible situation is if you can clearly see your vehicle from a safe distance. Are there any obstructions that are limiting your view?

-Check under the vehicle from a distance to make sure that no one is hiding under your car. As you move closer, be alert to other vehicles parked close by.

-Suspicious situations would include: an occupied vehicle parked close by, or a nearby vehicle in which you cannot see inside. Also, be cautious of any suspicious person approaching as you near your car.

-If there is a group of individuals near you car: do not attempt to approach your car, immediately contact police or a security officer for an escort.

-If your car looks odd, or perhaps has a flat tire, leave at once and seek help.

-Visually check the front and rear passenger compartments before entering. If you own a hatchback check the rear compartment as well.

-Have your key in your hand before reaching your car.

-Consider installing a remote car starter. As you approach your vehicle in a parking lot, activate the signal to start your car. Many car starters illuminate the parking lights as they start. During the evening hours, this may deter an aggressor who might think that there is someone else in the car waiting for you.

-If your instincts tell you that something is not right, leave the situation immediately and request an escort from building security, a store manager, or contact the police. Ignoring your instincts if you do not feel safe is simply not worth the risk.

From familyhomesecurity.com

Amanda On:

Amanda Lukens, Service Technician and Accessory Specialist, took the time out of her busy day to do an interview with me.

DVD Players
Keeps the kids quiet. I’d have one. They can play two different DVD’s or the same one on both screens. You can listen to the audio through the speakers so the passengers don’t have to have headphones. For example, my daughter is too young to wear the headphones; she would just take them off. The fact that the audio comes through the speakers is a huge plus and you can control them with a remote. It’s a really cool option.

Satellite Radios
I love to install these because I like to hang out in the trunk and I like taking the car apart. That’s my favorite. Whenever I am activating the XM or Sirius radios, I listen to the comedy channel so it makes it even more fun.

Spoilers and Body Lines
Spoilers are fun to do because I get to drill holes in brand new cars. When I first started, I was so scared to drill the five holes in the trunk lid, but I love to do it now. People walk by and say, “What are you doing to that car?!” It looks really good when it’s done and it makes me feel great to add even more style to a beautiful car. The same with the body side moldings. They look so nice.

Clear Shields
It’s kind of like tint, but stretchier and thicker. I cut it to the shape of the car with a machine, heat it up, and form it to the front of the car. I’ve got one on my car and I love it. It protects from rocks, bugs, and debris. I’ve been driving behind a truck before and thought, “Oh, I hope that rock hit the shield.” The investment is absolutely worth it and truly improves the resale value. Once, a dog jumped up on the car and the shield protected the paint even from that. No scratches. So I guess it protects the car from bugs, rocks, and dogs.

IPod Kits
You can buy the after-market adaptors you plug into your cigarette lighter. Not the best sound quality and they look messy. With ours, they have excellent audio quality and they plug into the back of your radio so you can control the IPod on your navigation screen or through your radio controls. This way, you can drive more safely and it’s less of a hassle. Normally, the IPod goes in the glove box where it’s out of sight and it can be charging at the same too. We can do the same thing with the IPhone. We offer the best quality; it’s Lexus. A sharp interior without a clutter and perfect sound is what we hope to offer.

K40 Radar Detectors
Not many local dealers are authorized to sell them so I’ve had people from many dealerships come here just to have them . I’ve done Landrovers, Mustangs, Porsches, and so on. We’re the only local authorized dealer for them and they’re the best. [With the K40 Radar Detectors,] you have the sensors in both the front and rear bumpers and LED’s in the dash. So if the radar is shooting at you, it will tell you which sensor is getting hit so you can know where the policeman is. You can also shut off the sound so, if you do get pulled over, the policeman can’t hear it. And they are guaranteed; Calibre will pay any speeding ticket you get in the first year, that’s how good they are. There is also the option to have a diffuser in the license plate which actually blocks the radar from even clocking you.

Window Tint
Once, I was holding the heat gun up by my shoulder and I leaned closer to examine my work and I burnt a half-circle onto my neck! It didn’t go away for about a month. I’ve burned myself on it many times, but tinting is still really fun to do. Also, the IS Coupe is unique because I actually have the top halfway up. I can’t open it all the way because I can’t fit in the backseat very well and I can’t have it closed because the window is then inside the trunk.

I just love everything I do and I enjoy the challenge of figuring out how to do something. I’m proud to work here at Lexus because we only offer the best and we have some great customers. A lot of people don’t look forward to going into work, but I do. It makes me happy.

Q: Can I get map updates for my Navigation System?

A: With maps that cover roads in 48 states, roads and destinations are constantly changing. Lexus is continually working to update this map software. We CAN install updates! Feel free to call for more information! (888) 277-6247

Check out the all new Lexus Hybrid Bike! Would you ride it?

Auto-branded bicycles are a dime a dozen, but this example -- which wears Lexus' nameplate -- is an interesting departure. It's a hybrid-electric vehicle.

The Lexus Hybrid Bicycle, as its name indicates, incorporates a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 240W electric motor and a 25.9-volt lithium-ion battery. Riders have the choice of either an Eco or Power mode and, although it isn't specified, we would expect the Power setting to deliver as much thrust to the road tires as possible.

Standard pedal power is sent to the back wheel via a Shimano eight-speed deraileur and a belt-drive system, while electrical assistance is transferred to the front wheel, creating an all-wheel drive arrangement. Regenerative braking is also included with the Hybrid Bicycle, just like the Lexus Hybrid Drive system in passenger vehicles.

To help offset the added heft of the hybrid system, a stylish, carbon-fiber frame is utilized. The bike weighs 37 pounds but if you tempted to splurge, you are out of luck. Lexus currently has no plans of putting it into production.

How to Change a Car's Battery

Changing a car battery is something that most people will be able to do themselves. The hardest part is usually to lift it out of the car once it has been disconnected because it is so heavy, but not even that is hard. Most batteries come equipped with a 60-month warranty. Keep track of your battery's life and replace it before it leaves you stranded.


Things You'll Need:
Screwdriver
New Battery
Wire Brush
Combination Wrench
Socket And Ratchet
Anti-corrosion Solution
Battery-cleaning Solution

Step 1
With the engine off, pop the hood and find the battery. Detach the negative (black) battery cable from the battery. First loosen the nut with a combination wrench. A better tool to use would be battery pliers or a battery wrench.
Step 2
Twist and pull up on the end of the cable with your hand. If it does not come off easily you may want to purchase a battery terminal puller from your local auto parts store. This will help prevent damage to your battery or cables. It is not recommended to use a screwdriver as a pry-bar, this could break off your battery terminal or cause other damage.
Step 3
Detach the positive (red) battery cable from the battery using the same method.
Step 4
Using a combination wrench or a socket and ratchet, remove the battery hold-down clamp.
Step 5
Take the battery out of the battery tray. Batteries are heavy, so grab from the bottom using both hands. If the battery has a handle, use that instead.
Step 6
Use baking soda mixed with water and a wire brush to clean any corrosion from the battery tray and the hold-down clamp.
Step 7
Clean the battery cable connectors with a wire brush. To remove heavy corrosion from the connectors, use battery-cleaning solution (available at any auto-parts store).
Step 8
Place the new battery in the battery hold-down tray and secure the battery with the hold-down clamp. Spray both terminal ends with anti-corrosion solution (optional). Attach and tighten the positive battery cable. Attach and tighten the negative battery cable. Check that all cable connectors are tight. If you can move them at all, your car may not start.
Tips & Warnings
Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Don't let it splash out. Take care not to spill any on your hands, body or clothing, or on car paint.
The old battery cannot go into the regular trash. Take it to a facility that accepts hazardous material for recycling. You can also return the used battery to the auto-parts store where you bought the new one.
Make sure you're connecting the wires to the right battery terminal otherwise you can cause damage to your vehicle.

http://www.ehow.com/how_112575_change-cars-battery.html

Car Review: Lexus RX 350 Adds iDrive (But Easy to Use)

http://www.gearlog.com/2009/02/car_review_lexus_rx_350_adds_i.php

The 2010 Lexus RX 350 and Lexus RX 450h Hybrid now have a cockpit controller like BMW's iDrive--but the Lexus Remote Touch controller is drop-dead simple to use. Remote Touch is the technology highlight of the third generation of Lexus' midsize luxury SUV, along with an impressive Bluetooth system, iPod integration, improved navigation, and a hybrid version that will account for one in five RX sales.

Lexus' Remote Touch replaces the previous-generation touchscreen display and uses a force-feedback joystick rather than the control wheel employed by BMW (iDrive), Audi (MMI), Mercedes-Benz (Comand), as well as Honda/Acura, Hyundai, and Infiniti. Force feedback means that when the joystick pointer nears an object on the 8-inch onscreen LCD, the pointer snaps to the selection.

Remote Touch is idiot-proof. The controller has a big palmrest with a short, joystick-like control pad at the front. (It looks like you're pushing around a squarish, leather-capped mushroom more than a tall joystick stalk.) Push to slide the pointer where you want to go, press the Select button on the left or right side of the palm rest, then push/slide and click again to fine-tune your selection. Even as BMW's latest iDrive on the 3 Series and 7 Series has become comparatively simple to use, Remote Touch is simpler still for navigating the screen.

Lexus says it added about $2,000 in additional features and lowered the base price by $900, to $37,625 (including freight) for the front-drive, gasoline-only Lexus RX 350. Such a deal. The hybrid (Lexus RX 450h) price hasn't been set, but if it follows the form of the previous models, may be such that payback in fuel savings will be in the range of 6 to 10 years.

One Big Drawback to Remote Touch (Not Enought Buttons)

Remote Touch has a noticeable drawback: no fixed-function buttons other than Menu and Map, located at the very front of the controller (photo, right). With iDrive or MMI, you press a button to jump straight to the functions you do all the time: navigation, phone, CD/iPod, radio/satellite radio.

With Remote Touch, you have to navigate to the function you want by pressing Menu, scrolling to the selection, then pressing Select. It's only a couple seconds each time and Lexus may say fewer buttons equals less confusion for users. But anyone who's used an Audi or BMW will quickly conclude that Remote Touch 1.0 is needlessly slow.

Once you're past the first step, iDrive takes more skill to manipulate, but it's no longer the horror show you heard about five years ago. And once you've really learned iDrive, it's faster than Remote Touch, but a lot of people never learn iDrive. The clear advantage for the vast majority of American drivers lies with Remote Touch. There's even a Display button on the side so you can quickly adjust screen brightness without going multiple menu layers deep.

Even with the shortage of function buttons (photo, right), Remote Touch is the one cockpit controller that makes users feel comfortable the first time they sit in the car. I suspect two things will happen within 2-3 years to change how controllers are deployed in cars:

Other automakers will adopt beefy joystick controllers. And not the tiny wobble-stick joysticks employed on some small cars. A useful joystick is big and it's mounted on a horizontal, not vertical surface, where you can rest your hand. Audi, BMW, and Mercedes have spent almost a decade making control wheels sort-of-workable. The Hyundai Genesis controller is also fairly easy to use in its first iteration. Lexus made a joystick work well the first time. For most users, it's more intuitive to use a joystick to push a pointer around the screen than a control wheel that now typically has a joystick-like function (because it doesn't look like a joystick).

Lexus will likely add more dedicated function buttons: navigation, phone, iPod, radio, and back (faster than joystick-scrolling to a back arrow) along with the current menu and map keys. If nothing else, just swipe the BMW design (photo, right), which is nearly perfect as far as the number, placement, and shape of buttons goes. Right now, Lexus claims fewer fixed-function buttons are actually better because of less visual clutter. That was the tune BMW sang from 2002 to 2008 before bowing to the wisdom of the Audi MMI configuration of controller plus key fixed-function buttons.

Driving Impressions
I drove several Lexus RX 350 and RX 450 Hybrid models at a recent press launch. Both models are luxurious, quiet, and comfortable to drive in and ride in. The styling is a known quantity and utterly inoffensive. Front seat comfort is excellent. Short and tall passengers will like that there's an optional that allows the seat cushion to adjust for length. Back seat passengers will find passable legroom and wish the seat cushions were an inch or two higher, and that's the same problem as on most mid-to-large SUVs. This being the smallest of the Lexus SUV lines (RX, GX, LX), there's no third row.
Little touches make the 2010 RX models better. The 8-inch LCD display (no longer touchscren) or 7-inch monochrome display on non-navigation cars is now at the top of the center stack and deeply recessed. The rear suspension is a double-wishbone design, something associated with ultimate sports cars rather than soft-riding Lexuses, but it's more compact, intrudes less into the cargo area, and improves rear luggage capacity (which remains compromised by the raked rear roofline). The automatic transmission is now six not five speeds with top gear effectively overdrive compared to the old transmission. Power steering is electric not hydraulic and saves 3% on gas mileage, Lexus says, and if there's less road feel transmitted to the steering wheel, that's not a big issue to a Lexus buyer. Headlamps are auto-dimming; steerable xenon headlamps are available. A hill-start assist control (HAC) feature keeps the car from slipping back on startup. A big cutout under the console, open on both sides, is the perfect place to stash a purse, and helps explain why women flock to the Lexus RX: 60% of the buyers are women, a figure Lexus hopes to equalize; it also wants to get the average buyer age down from the current 58.
The already dazzling main gauges in the instrument panel are lit by OLEDs (organic LEDs, photo above). Rear brake and license plate lights are LED (oddly, tail lamps and turn signals still use traditional tungsten bulbs). The airbag count is up to 10 with the addition of second row side airbags. The rear entertainment system now uses two headrest-mount LCDs rather than a single overhead drop-down. The rear spoiler is now standard, so the rear wiper mounts there, where it can't be molested by car wash brushes. The two water bottle cutouts in the center console don't interfere with passenger operation of Remote Touch, something Mercedes-Benz couldn't master with its latest iteration of the Comand controller in the C-Class sedan (admittedly a smaller vehicle).

A BMW X5 or Acura MDX is more fun to drive, slightly bigger, and in BMW's case about $10,000 more costly, but Lexus outsells its closest competitor, BMW, by more than 2-1, which suggests Lexus better understands the American mindset. More people want a smooth ride and friendly dealers than an SUV that can confidently lap the Nurburgring racetrack. At least Lexus now offers an RX 350 sport package for those who want a less pillowy ride.

Lexus RX 450h Hybrid
The Lexus RX 450h is a fine car to drive and makes a lot of sense for the environment and for fuel economy if most of your driving is around town. The hybrid components have all been made smaller, lighter, or more efficient. It's rated an impressive 30 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 28 mpg overall, which are big improvements over the all-wheel-drive RX 350's 18 city, 24 highway, 19 overall. City mileage is twice that of gas-engine Acura, BMW, Lincoln, and Mercedes-Benz competitors. The RX 450h uses an Atkinson cycle engine, a gasoline engine optimized for efficiency. The old Lexus hybrid used a more traditional gasoline (Otto) engine.

Hybrid pricing hasn't been set. The outgoing Lexus RX 400h listed at $42,080, about $4,000 over the gasoline equivalent. The Lexus RX 450h will follow the RX 350 gasoline model by about three months, meaning first deliveries in early summer. You'll have to do your own calculations to see if the RX 450h hybrid, no matter how desirable, makes dollars and sense with no federal tax credits for Lexus hybrids any more. It may be you'll need to buy on faith that you're doing something for the globabl environment, not necessarily for your personal cost of ownership.

If there's a $3,000 price premium for the hybrid, you'd need about seven years to get your money back assuming you drive 12,000 miles a year and premium fuel costs $2.50 a gallon. The hybrid's fuel savings would be $471 a year. But if you own a Lexus RX 450h and are lucky enough to see premium gasoline cost $3.50 a gallon, then you'd save $600 a year and get the premium back in five years. If the price premium is $4,000, you'd need 9.3 years ($2.50 a gallon) or 6.7 years ($3.50 a gallon).

Lexus RX 350, RX 450h Features
Here are some features new or impressed on the Lexus RXs, of interest for those who appreciate technology, particularly technology that isn't just for technology's sake:

Active cruise control (ACC). Lexus calls it a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control ($1,500). In heavy traffic, this cruise control paces the car ahead at one of three pre-set distances. It also warns you to brake in the event of an impending collision. Some costlier ACC systems are stop-and-go; this one cuts out below 20 mph because the radar can't track at close following distances. While Lexus offers forward (ACC) and rear (parking sonar) force fields for safety, the RX models don't offer blind sport detection or lane departure warning, which are relatively cheap to implement.

Head-up display (HUD). This secondary display ($1,200) places the most crucial information in a small monochromatic window that appears to float just over the front edge of the hood. You get your current speed, a navigation arrow as you approach a turn, and some basic audio information.

It's useful but other HUDs, particularly BMW's, provides more information with a multi-color (but not full color) HUD. Here's one example where the Lexus HUD falls short on usefulness: The audio system passes along and the HUD displays the track number your iPod is playing but not the name of the track. With satellite radio, it passes along the channel number but not the channel name or song name.

Lexus by-the-way calls it a heads-up display, which should elicit snarky notes from pilots who point out that it's head-up display, singular. So there.

iPod adapter. It's all but standard, offered on the most basic of the RX 350's options packages. (That said, it should be universally standard, as Bluetooth is.) A USB jack in the center console (along with a line-in jack and two 12-volt outlets) allows virtually any music containing device to be controlled from the Remote Touch controller. I found some audio menus confusing and poorly thought out, but the overall experience is still better than using a line-in jack and controlling the iPod by hand. XM satellite radio now comes standard and you can order several levels of premium audio including a Mark Levinson-branded system.
Bluetooth. It comes standard and works well. There's both Bluetooth for your phone and Bluetooth for streaming music. I'm not sure I get the audio Bluetooth since it won't allow you to control your device or recharge it, but what the heck.

Navigation package. Lexus offers it with a backup camera, hard drive, a CD changer, 12-speaker upgraded audio, improved voice input, and XM NavTraffic and XM NavWeather, for $2,550. (Or in even costlier options packages.) This Denso navigation system is better and more responsive; in recent years, Denso systems went from technology leader to laggard to leader again. Now, my only complaints are the lack of useful split screen modes (say, audio in one half, navigation in another), the failure of the navigation display to pop up over another screen (say, audio) when a critical turn approaches, and Lexus' please-don't-sue-us nervousness that makes them lock out some navigation features while moving even if there's a passenger aboard. (The voice input does let you enter a destination while moving, at least.) For display flexibility, Infiniti's Xanavi system remains the gold standard.

Because there's so much technology here, it's hard to get a sense of whether the overall price is reasonable when the best Garmin portable systems are less than $1,000 and competent portable navigation devices are $500. Also, if you opt for all three XM services, it's $24 a month and the $5 a month imputed to traffic info is shaky (I believe), since even the best traffic info seems to be wrong about half the time. That's creeping up from the $10 a month you initially paid for standalone satellite radio.
Wide view side monitor. A down-facing camera in the right side mirror projects a length-of-the-car view as you're easing into or out of a parking space. Infiniti's three-camera Around View system is cooler and costlier but this is almost as useful.

Smart key. Keyless entry and start are standard. On some cars, that's a $500-$1,000 option.

Lexus continues the tradition of big options packages, meaning you may have to take options you don't want to get ones you do. There's a Navigation Package with Additional Options that bundles, for $6,818, the navigation/camera component with the first level of premium audio, a smog sensor (it turns on climate control recirculation), 19-inch alloy wheels, heated and ventilated seats, and a towing prep package. Do you see a common thread among the options? Me neither. Also: The Lexus website shows some standalone options that aren't available when you actually go to configure a car. It could be the site is still sorting itself out, or I'm not smart enough to use the site. Or that you may need to go see a Lexus dealer to configure the RX 350 you want.
Bottom Line: Lexus RX as the SUV to Beat
The Lexus RX 350 is not the vehicle for driving twisty back roads. It is a superb choice, for those who can afford a vehicle selling for $45,000-$50,000, for safe, luxurious, comfortable, and entertaining short and long-distance travel. Two adults and two children who pack light can go anywhere in an RX 350 or RX 450 Hybrid. (The rear cargo area, remember, is not that big, and the back seat is okay not luxurious for grown-ups because of the low seat height.) The Remote Touch joystick means anyone can now work a navigation system, not just those who spend hours poring over the manual and memorizing turn-press-slide-press patterns before inserting the ignition key. You'd be hard-pressed to go wrong with the new Lexus. For the third time, the Lexus RX is the midsize luxury SUV benchmark for others to match.

Lexus RX 350, Lexus RX450h
Price: $37,625 front-drive, $$39,025 all-wheel-drive (includes $825 freight). Lexus RX 450h TBA (spring/summer 2009).
EPA economy: RX 350, 18 mpg city, 24 highway, 20 combined (premium). RX 450h 30 city, 27 highway, and 28 combined.

Pros: Best-yet way to control an LCD display (Remote Touch joystick). Useful new technologies. Standard Bluetooth, nearly standard iPod adapter.

Cons: Lack of fixed-function buttons to speed up initial access to Remote Touch features. Some onscreen menus confusing. Website pretty but build-your-own needs work.

Bottom line: Lexus hits another home run with the third generation RX. Remote Touch is the most effective cockpit controller yet (but not perfect). Price delta of hybrid RX 450h over RX 350, if similar to the old RXs, may not make pure economic sense for the first owner.

Lexus HS250h wins Wards Interior of the Year award for hybrids

GreenAutoBlog.com

Eric Loveday reports on the announcement from Wards regarding the Lexus HS250h as the recipient for its Interior of the Year award for hybrids.

Quotes from the story:

The Ward's Interior of the Year awards are selected from several categories, including an individual grouping for hybrids. This year's award in the hybrid segment goes to the Lexus HS250h.

Ward's remarked that the Lexus goes against the grain of other hybrids with an interior that is handsomely appointed, offering a luxury car feel unlike hybrids that purposely call attention to their futuristic designs.

Ward's added that the Lexus offers a unique "human/machine interface."

Check out our youtube video on this award-winning car at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUil5qlhhUQ