Exterior

The new RX is clearly an evolution of the past generation's design, not a groundbreaking new look. That's OK, because the previous generation is the benchmark for the class; competing automakers tell us that directly, which is a compliment. The previous RX sold extremely well, and the new one is also selling well. That's why the new design, while slightly more aggressive up front, remains nondescript everywhere else, which shouldn't turn off any buyers.

The biggest change comes to the grille, which has an interesting vertical swoop at the bottom and, as far as I could tell, was actually made of metal — a rarity in today's plastic, fake-chrome world.

    See also:

    Thrust vs. Thrift
    Thanks to the drivetrain's immediate thrust, the CT 200h has adequate oomph for driving solo: It scoots from a stoplight well enough and maintains highway speeds with little trouble. But it lacks ...

    Used Lexus ES 350
    Models Introduced for 2007, the present-generation Lexus ES 350 essentially hasn't changed much, making low-mileage, well-kept examples top used car choices. The previous generation of the ES, w ...

    Interior Design
    Built on a 109.3-inch wheelbase, the midsize Lexus ES 350 provides a roomy and inviting interior. The driver and passengers are treated to intelligent, elegant luxury, with touch points that conve ...