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2010 Lexus RX First Impressions (video)

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Marc Bouchard
The instrument panel also receives a number of enhancements, particularly with regard to backlighting. Lexus came up with an innovative solution called "organic light-emitting diodes" or OLED (referring to the lighting heat, not source), which offers crystal-clear white lighting with sharp contrast for improved, wide-angle readability.

Some models also get one of the most advanced navigation systems in the industry.

Gadget galore
The 2010 Lexus RX is perhaps best defined as a roomful of technological upgrades. And we're not only talking about the environmentally-friendly variant, which makes good use of Toyota's next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive.

As soon as you enter the new cabin, you can't help but admire the collection of advanced systems. For instance, the driver benefits from a head-up display technology projecting vital vehicle info like actual speed directly on the windshield. This means you spend less time turning your eyes away from the road.

Some models also get one of the most advanced navigation systems in the industry. Voice recognition is more functional and you don't have to repeat commands over and over for the system to work. Of course, Bluetooth connectivity and auxiliary inputs are part of the audio system, whether it's the base unit or one of the two premium stereos.

The biggest news is probably the addition of Remote Touch, a computer mouse-like controller located on the center console that allows you to browse through the screen with simple clicks. You might think it's not that big a deal, but know this: the mouse reacts to the buttons on the screen, meaning the operator feels a vibration under his or her fingertips and can navigate through the various menus intuitively. It may require some getting used to, but as far as info/nav systems are concerned, this is one of the most user-friendly... although not without flaws.

Headlights automatically switch from low beams to high beams (or the other way around) with no intervention from the driver. Elsewhere, a new camera located under the passenger side-view mirror and Hill Start Assist add to the vehicle's comprehensive list of standard features.

Revised powertrains
Revisions and technological enhancements have also been applied under the hood, where the 3.5-liter V6 now generates 275 horsepower. More importantly, it burns less fuel thanks to an effective and quick-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission.

Revisions and technological enhancements have also been applied under the hood, where the 3.5-liter V6 now generates 275 horsepower.
Marc Bouchard
Marc Bouchard
Automotive expert
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