Lexus RX SUV Review

Design and Engineering

Design and Engineering

 Good

The latest RX arrived here in 2009 and has 'grown' a bit... The larger alloy wheels help to give the Lexus added road presence, and Lexus claim that the new model should appeal now appeal equally between the sexes (compared to the previous shape which females preferred over males). We don't love the styling, but it has improved - there's a bolder front and a sportier rear. It's one of those SUV's which people probably won't take off-road - so it's designed to look good on tarmac, not dirt.
Not so good

We all agree that the design is an evolutionary improvement over the previous shape; however some reviewers aren’t big fans of the vertical lined chrome grille – it’s clear that the US (particularly Florida) is still a very important market for this model.
Interior and Styling

Interior and Styling

 Good

Interiors don’t come much more refined this one; it’s also an original design (we actually hope that this is the direction of interior styling for the brand). The computer mouse-like Remote Touch knob eliminates the need for an overdose of buttons around the centre console and is impressively logical & quick to use. Excellent, very comfortable front row seats PLUS a decent-sized boot and the rear seats fold flat to create a significantly larger cargo carrying space when required.
Not so good

Second row legroom is only adequate as this is a slightly more 'compact' luxury Large SUV than say an X5 or ML-Class. However, in today’s Green world this could also be viewed as a positive.
Performance

Performance

 Good

Both the RX350 and the RX450h have excellent drivetrains; the 3.5L V6 in both engines is a smooth, refined engine and when combined with the electric motor in the 450h creates a deceptively quick SUV.
Not so good

Engine noise is more evident in the cabin under hard acceleration than previous model; Lexus claim this is at the request of consumer feedback so maybe this is a positive point?
Ride and Handling

Ride and Handling

 Good

The ride in the 2009 RX is a touch firmer than that of the previous shape; however, they have refined and improved the handling...
Not so good

The handling still has a floaty 'feel' whilst cornering...and the steering could offer greater feedback for the driver, even though this is an 'on-road' Large SUV.
Buying and Owning

Buying and Owning

 Good

If you’re like many Australian's and you spend a high percentage of your time sitting in traffic - the petrol-electric hybrid 450h makes a very strong case. Its economy (as you'd expect) dominates that of the already-efficient Diesel competitors. All RX’s come standard with a high level of safety features (of both the active and passive variety).
Not so good

As standard the spare tyre is a space saver; however, rural driver’s can always tick the optional full-size spare wheel - we believe everyone should do that to improve the SUV's ability to do long trips safely and easily...