Used 2010 Lexus RX 350

For 2010, Lexus introduces its third-generation RX luxury cross-over, a four-door, 5-seater that benefits from a host of thoughtful touches that set it apart from the crowd.

The RX 350 is powered by a 4-cam, 3.5L V6 with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which makes 275 horsepower. It is available in either front- or all-wheel drive, and the latter employs a limited-slip Active Torque Control differential with variable torque split for maximum traction. The RX puts its power to the wheels through a 6-speed automatic with sport-shift and snow modes. The FWD RX 350 is rated at 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway and is classified as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II).

Exterior styling is mildly different in the latest RX, as Lexus saw no need to revolutionize its popular SUV. The RX expands in all directions by about an inch, which translates to slightly improved spaciousness in the passenger compartment. Suspension is independent all around, and the progressive electronic power steering system is speed-sensing for enhanced control. The AWD model has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

But for the number of wheels that drive them, the FWD and AWD RX models come identically equipped. Standard features include fog lamps, heated mirrors, cruise control, power windows, an AM/FM CD changer stereo, dual-zone climate control, maple or walnut wood trim, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, 10-way adjustable driver's seat, and reclining, sliding rear seats with a 40/20/40 split.

Options abound on the RX, and it's not hard to outfit the SUV with luxury features usually reserved for sedans costing two or three times as much. Popular amenities include heated and cool perforated leather seating, power moonroof, and a memory system for seating, mirrors, climate control and steering wheel position. On the gizmo side, dynamic radar cruise control adjusts the RX's speed based on surrounding traffic, a Heads-up Display projects speed, audio, and more on the windshield before the driver, and HDD Navigation with voice commands gets you where you need to go. A unique feature of the navigation system is the new Remote Touch, an ergonomically designed controller that gives the user command of the RX's many navigation features. An LCD display completes the package, and will also display video from the back-up camera, if so equipped.

Safety features set the RX apart, and standard are 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution, stability and traction control, driver and passenger front, side seat-mounted, and side curtain airbags, as well as side curtain and side seat-mounted airbags for rear passengers. Available safety features include Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which integrates braking, steering, and stability and traction control to help keep the RX planted in turns, as well as Pre-Collision, a feature of the Heads-up Display that radar-senses the possibility of an accident and prepares the vehicle by pre-tensioning the seat belts and applying the brakes.

Smooth On-road Presence

Good Interior Room

Standard Features

Safety

The Lexus RX is redesigned for 2010. The new model is about one inch bigger in almost every exterior dimension, and exterior styling has been subtly redone. The interior is all-new as well and more user friendly. The model's powertrain has been revamped as well, and the 3.5L V6 of the RX 350 now boasts 275 horsepower, up from the previous 270 hp. A 6-speed automatic replaces last year's 5-speed.

Inside, the luxurious cabin benefits from a more user-friendly design, highlighted by the available all-new Remote Touch, an intuitive and ergonomically designed controller that puts the driver in command of the RX's many navigation and audio features. Rear cargo room has been increased slightly, thanks in part to a repackaging of the new rear suspension. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and ten airbags are standard on the RX.

Lexus invented the luxury cross-over segment with the RX in 1998, and it has since been one of the Japanese carmaker's best sellers. Now in its third generation, the RX carries forth with more of what makes it so popular--attractive styling, great safety ratings, lots of luxury in a spacious cabin, and a smooth, carlike ride. Improved standard features in the all-new 2010 model, as well as a 3,500-lb towing capacity, make it a smart choice amongst the many other luxury SUV models that have flooded the market in recent years.