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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 SPECS2010 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
