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:

    2011 Lexus RX 350
    After a week test-driving the 2011 Lexus RX 350, a headline in the Wall Street Journal's April 18, 2011, edition caught my eye: "Lexus Falls Behind Rivals." The timing of this article wa ...

    Hybrid system precautions
    Take care when handling the hybrid system, as it contains a high voltage system (about 650V at maximum) as well as parts that become extremely hot when the hybrid system is operating. Obey the cauti ...

    Using the CD player
    Loading CDs Loading a CD 1. Press . “WAIT” is shown on the display. 2. When the indicator on the slot turns from amber to green, insert a CD. The display changes from “WAIT” to “LOAD”. Loadin ...