The back seats were very comfortable with handy cupholders, ample room, and ample headroom and foot space. Make sure you adjust the rear backrests before you get into the RX because they are really hard to adjust when you are sitting in them. You can fold the rear seats down in three sections, but they don't fold flat. You also have extra storage space in the rear cargo area on both sides and under the cover. And, there is a standard 115-volt 2-prong outlet behind rear seat. The rear tailgate is easy to open, but I recommend the power option because it is so cool to watch and so handy. I wish Lexus would include a standard cargo net, though.
Young working woman's view: An excellent buy, but why not get the Toyota Highlander instead? It has the same engine, the possibility of seating for more, and costs less. To me, the answer isn't one of practicality. I love the Lexus service, the Lexus extras, and the pride it brings. Does it make financial success? Not really, even through the resale is slightly higher for the Lexus.
Driving it is without fuss. It never bores you or bothers you with problems. It has a smooth, quiet, ride and has an excellent cruising range of over 300 miles, something that our older model couldn't do because of a gas tank that was about two gallons smaller.
If you are into SUVs, and I am not, this is about as good as it gets for the price. But, be warned, if Lexus does bring out a hybrid model and my job remains secure, I am sorely tempted to abandon my sports car phase and go directly to the SUV stage.
Family conference: Call it a tall station wagon, try to humiliate it by claiming its an overpriced Toyota, make fun of its turtle shell appearance, or just point out you can get an SUV the same size and power for $10,000 less and you still are not going to convince buyers that this isn't the cat's meow of luxury SUVs. While the Acura MDX handles a bit better, the BMW is faster, and Mercedes more off roadable, and the Infiniti more sporty, the Lexus is all alone when it comes to providing buyers with what the majority want, and that is a luxury vehicle that is both practical an elegant.
