The RX series has been a “bread and butter” product for Lexus since its introduction in 1999. Along the way, the RX raised the bar in the luxury crossover segment as it matured and evolved into a highly sought-after all-wheel-drive vehicle by those with premium expectations and wallets to match.
L-finesse styling for 2010
Lexus has restyled the RX 350 consistent with their L-finesse design philosophy without abandoning the basic RX shape and inherent design theme. While exhibiting greater strength, the new look projects a sleeker profile intensified by sharper lines and increased visual drama.
The more dramatic styling becomes, the more polarizing it can be. I suspect that the latest RX makeover may ignite such responses. I can certainly see the artistry that the L-finesse design language is founded upon; I’m just not sure if I’m a fan.
Of course what fires my right-brain synapses may be completely different from yours. Despite my ambivalence toward the RX 350’s bold exterior lines, my appreciation for this trail-capable limo rose once I immersed myself into its richly appointed cabin.
Lexus incorporates quality into its living spaces, and the new RX 350 is an excellent example of that. The new interior architecture is relaxing yet appealing and sophisticated, at least by crossover standards. It’s an unequivocal improvement over last year’s execution.
An aspect of Lexus that I’ve always admired is the smooth, balanced operation of their controls. Simply spinning the audio dials or operating various buttons and switches tends to impart a sense of precision-induced quality, and I like that.
Refinement operation applies beneath the hood as well.
More power for 2010
Although unchanged in size, the 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 engine produces more punch for 2010. It’s now delivering a compelling 275 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 257 pound-feet of torque @ 4,700 rpm. Regrettably, those figures are premium-fuel driven.
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| The base RX 350, if it can be called such, is stickered at $46,900. |
L-finesse styling for 2010
Lexus has restyled the RX 350 consistent with their L-finesse design philosophy without abandoning the basic RX shape and inherent design theme. While exhibiting greater strength, the new look projects a sleeker profile intensified by sharper lines and increased visual drama.
The more dramatic styling becomes, the more polarizing it can be. I suspect that the latest RX makeover may ignite such responses. I can certainly see the artistry that the L-finesse design language is founded upon; I’m just not sure if I’m a fan.
Of course what fires my right-brain synapses may be completely different from yours. Despite my ambivalence toward the RX 350’s bold exterior lines, my appreciation for this trail-capable limo rose once I immersed myself into its richly appointed cabin.
Lexus incorporates quality into its living spaces, and the new RX 350 is an excellent example of that. The new interior architecture is relaxing yet appealing and sophisticated, at least by crossover standards. It’s an unequivocal improvement over last year’s execution.
An aspect of Lexus that I’ve always admired is the smooth, balanced operation of their controls. Simply spinning the audio dials or operating various buttons and switches tends to impart a sense of precision-induced quality, and I like that.
Refinement operation applies beneath the hood as well.
More power for 2010
Although unchanged in size, the 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 engine produces more punch for 2010. It’s now delivering a compelling 275 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 257 pound-feet of torque @ 4,700 rpm. Regrettably, those figures are premium-fuel driven.
 |
| The new interior architecture is relaxing yet appealing and sophisticated. |