Lexus RX 350 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Lexus RX 350 ranks 1 out of 15 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This
ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test
drives of the Lexus RX 350, and our analysis of reliability and safety
data.
For 2010, Lexus has redesigned its RX 350 crossover, making this the
SUV's third generation. The new model doesn't represent a radical
change -- instead, Lexus has refined one of its best-selling vehicles
by adding a few needed elements to keep it fresh and modern.
Reviewers say the RX 350 continues to offer one of the best
combinations of powerful performance and interior luxury in its class.
Changes for 2010 include a sleeker exterior, more spacious interior, a
new six-speed transmission and double wishbone rear suspension, and
five more horsepower for the V6 engine. "The RX is comfortable and
especially stylish inside, with good cargo capacity and Lexus dealer's
reputation for superior customer service," says BusinessWeek.
"Crossover shoppers could do a lot worse." Test drivers especially like
the added horsepower and six-speed transmission, which make for
stronger acceleration.
Overall, the RX 350 is an even more refined car than before -- and, at
several thousand dollars less than
its competitors, it's one that might be worth it for loyal buyers of
Toyota's luxury brand. Still, anyone
interested in the RX 350 should also consider the Cadillac SRX. It's
one of the only models priced lower than the Lexus, and the 2010
model's redesign has put it nearly on par with Lexus for refinement and
quality. The only catch is that, while the two-wheel-drive model's fuel
efficiency matches the RX 350's, the all-wheel-drive SRX gets slightly
worse gas mileage than the Lexus..
The RX 350 comes in front- or all-wheel drive. It's also available as a
hybrid, the RX 450h,
which is reviewed separately. Though its gas mileage is substantially
higher than the RX 350's, the hybrid also costs nearly $5,000 more --
so it would take many years to offset its price premium in fuel
savings.
Circulated by Antelope Valley
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