2010 Lexus RX350 and RX450h (First Look) Buyer Guide
New RX Builds On Proven Formula
This may come as no surprise, but the 2010 Lexus RX doesn’t look a whole lot different than the model it replaces. In fact, if you were to just give it a casual glance, you might think you were looking at a 2009. Lexus was not about to make radical changes to their best seller, but they did make subtle changes to enhance the appearance, and a number of more significant improvements to the rest of the vehicle.
Styling-wise, the RX gets broader shoulders for a slightly brawnier look. On the inside, There’s a new asymmetrical center stack, which is very functional, but aesthetically, might be an acquired taste for some. A new mouse-like controller on the console simulates using a computer to program the navigation system, audio and climate controls. This is the most intuitive controller that I’ve ever used.
The gas-powered RX350 gets a new six-speed automatic. This gearbox can sense when you need a quick burst of power, and downshift from sixth to third, or from fifth to second, skipping the intermediate gears. The RX450h hybrid gets 27 more horsepower, via an Atkinson-cycle engine, and 8-12-percent better fuel economy, thanks to a lighter battery pack and other hardware.
The handling came in for attention too. Lexus installed new electric power steering that feels quicker, and provides better feedback to the driver. They also replaced the strut-type rear suspension with a more sophisticated double-wishbone configuration that improves agility. (The absence of strut towers in the cargo area also increases storage space.) And to prevent rolling backwards when starting on an incline, the RX gets Hill-Start Assist Control.
The RX keeps getting better.
