2010 Lexus RX 350 Windham ME

November 20, 2009   By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor



2010 Lexus RX 350

DriverSide Overview
According to Lexus, there are currently over 780,000 RX models on the road, and we can assure you that they are being driven by some very happy customers. In fact, Lexus is relying on their glow of ownership bliss to win them over with the newest generation of the RX. The compact luxury SUV was the first of its kind, with Lexus practically inventing a new segment with its creation. Now for 2010, it has had a complete overhaul to match the growing competition and satisfy current fans and owners. The biggest changes begin in the longer and wider exterior design, continue through to a more sophisticated and modern interior cabin and culminate with modifications to the suspension, all-wheel drive system and transmission. Of course, Lexus wouldn't be Lexus if it hadn't thrown in the most advanced technology available, including side and rearview camera systems, satellite traffic and weather and a brand new way to scroll through the car's many infotainment functions. The RX 350 may not be breaking any rules to accomplish all this – it remains steadfastly uninspired in every way – but sometimes the most important characteristic of a vehicle is simply its ability to get you where you need to be. Now, that's an original idea.








What's to Like
The all-wheel drive system excels at keeping the RX more balanced than when power is running through just two wheels. Its exterior design looks much more streamlined than the previous model generation and fits well within the Lexus aesthetic. Because the new double-wishbone suspension doesn't have a need for rear struts, trunk space is now five percent larger.

What's Not to Like
Overzealous traction control kicks in at every available moment. Great for safety, not so good if you want to have a little fun. Body roll is particularly bad, and the wind noise – something that shouldn't even be an issue in a Lexus – cannot be ignored.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
While the engine can feel slightly raspy when pushing it hard, the V-6 does the trick around town and will surprise with its ability to deftly climb hills as well. The new six-speed automatic transmission – the only gearbox available – improves greatly upon the previous generation’s and shifts through gears more fluidly. Steering remains slushier than its competitors though it is adequate if your commute tends to feature four-way stops instead of hairpin turns. What will disappoint is the cabin noise, a quality that doesn't match the luxury of the interior. Wind freely whistles through window joints and can drown out conversation at freeway speeds. Perfectly bolstered seats hold occupants comfortably – even with the body of the front-wheel drive model rolling around corners. The more grounded all-wheel drive RX escapes that unfortunate trait using active torque cont...

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