Teresa’s View
Eagle-eyed auto enthusiasts will notice a difference in the 2007 Lexus RX right away. The name — RX 350 —represents a change under the hood. The SUV formerly-known-as-the-RX 330 got a power upgrade this year, from a 223-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 to a 3.5-liter six-cylinder that delivers 270 horsepower. Hence the name change.
Lexus says the front-wheel drive version will scoot from 0-to-60 in 7.3 seconds. However, Car and Driver managed 6.8 seconds.
Bonus — the more powerful engine is actually slightly more fuel-efficient.
The car-based RX is the smallest of the three Lexus sport-utes and the best-selling model in the lineup. It comes in either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. A hybrid gas/electric-powered version, called the RX 400h, is also available.
New interior and exterior updates include a revamped front grille, new chrome door handles and optional seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels with a lovely Liquid Graphite finish.
As one might expect in a Lexus, fit and finish is beyond reproach. The plush cabin is suitably luxurious, with real wood and rich leather trim. Black Bird’s-Eye Maple trim is now offered on select models.
Lexus didn’t forget the back-seat passengers. The second-row seats slide and recline and fold.
The ride is buttery smooth. An optional air-suspension system adds four height settings that allow the driver to adjust the vehicle to the driving conditions — “normal” for speeds over 62 mph; “high” for rough roads; “access” for loading people and gear; and “low” for more sporty driving. That said, the RX 350 is not the type you toss about the twisties, although a Performance Package adds a little “zip.”
What Is It?: The Lexus RX 350 is a five-passenger, midsize, luxury crossover SUV. Prices for the RX should start at $38K, including destination charges.
Gadget Rating: nine out of 10. The length and breadth of the standard features list is impressive — 10-way power front driver and passenger seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and power rear liftgate — but so is the list of available options. Optional equipment includes a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with 9-inch LCD screen ($1,740) and Dynamic Laser Cruise Control ($600). A fifth-generation navigation system is part of a $7,090 package that includes a rear back-up camera, adaptive-turning HID headlights, multi-panel moonroof and a fabulous Mark Levinson audio system with 11 speakers and wireless headphones.
Safety: Lexus touts its active safety systems. Best to prevent an accident, they say and I agree. Air bags are found in the front and side of the front seats. Also, there are also side curtain air bags to protect heads and a set at the driver’s knees. Vehicle stability and traction control systems to help keep the vehicle on the road.
Grocery Sack Test: I love the versatile cargo area. A retracting tonneau cover keeps prying eyes from precious packages. There’s even a covered storage area under the floor.
Cheat Sheet: Lexus is Toyota’s luxury division.
So, Where Are Ya From?: Most RXs sold in North America are built in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.