New RX from Lexus

Lexus has existed only for 20 years, and yet it is already somehow responsible for producing the best-selling luxury SUV on the market. The company intends to do it again in 2010, with the introduction of its RX 350 and RX 450h.



There’s a clear family heritage, but the new RX is easily discerned by its wider track, more aggressive shoulder line and longer overall shape. The rear wiper is now tucked under the roof spoiler, which also integrates the antenna, and the exhaust pipes are now concealed. The RX 450h receives proprietary trim, including a unique grille and badging; a slightly restyled front bumper; unique 19-inch wheels; and blue tinted headlights and taillights. LED headlights are said to be an option.



The RX will remain a 5-passenger SUV. Lexus says that the interior is divided into a “display” zone and an “operation” zone. Different trim coloring and materials make the distinction between the two obvious. The display zone incorporates a new heads-up display that the manufacturer says can be read in direct sunlight. But the most notable interior element has to be Lexus’ take on iDrive. Here, it’s a gadget that resembles a trackball (that’s the device that was supposed to replace your mouse), which Lexus is calling “Remote Touch.” Lexus is quick to point out that any of the car’s features can be accessed without Remote Touch.



Also noteworthy is a new hard-drive-based navigation system, which incorporates real-time traffic and can display a 5-day weather forecast, too. Wide-angle cameras mounted underneath the rearview mirrors help with parallel parking and blind spots. Our thought? You won’t want to get sideswiped in traffic. If you do, though, ten airbags (that’s a best in class) and an optional precollision system help keep the RX safe.



The RX 450h is 8 percent more efficient at the gas pump than its predecessor, which is impressive when you consider that the bigger 3.5-liter V6 (from 3.3 liters) now produces 295 horsepower (27 more than the current RX 400h). Lexus credits a new exhaust-heat recovery system, which allows much less use of the gasoline engine. In addition, a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system contributes. The new RX 350 gets a 275 horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic transmission.



Both RXs will be available in either front- or all-wheel drive, and both take advantage of a redesigned rear suspension, which is said to add a much needed element of sportiness to the Lexus pair (Lexii?). But maybe the real reason for the redesign is an increase in rear cargo space of 5 percent. The RX will ride on 18-inch wheels with 235/60R18 rubber, with 19-inchers (235/55R19) being optional. The RX 350 will go on sale in February 2009, and the RX 450h will hit showrooms next spring.



As a side note, Lexus’ two-door convertibles, the IS 250C and IS 350C, made their American debut at the L.A. show as well, and will hit these shores in late spring. See our Paris Motor Show coverage for complete details. Stay tuned to MSN Autos for Detroit show coverage, during which Lexus will introduce the much anticipated “dedicated luxury hybrid,” dubbed HS 250h.