Lexus claims it invented the luxury hybrid with the RX 400h in 2005, and ten years after the introduction of the RX line, the automaker is using the the Los Angeles show with the goal of reinventing the segment it says it invented with its all-new 2010 RX 350 and RX 450h luxury SUVs.
The 2010 Lexus RX 450h hybrid is powered by a 3.5L Atkinson-cycle V-6 and the hybrid system receives a new, more powerful inverter that bumps total output to 297 hp, 27 hp more than the outgoing model. 275 hp comes from gasoline engine, with an additional 22 hp coming from the electric motor. In addition to boosting power, Lexus says it has also increased fuel mileage by 8%, though no specific numbers were given at the press conference. Based on an EPA-estimated 25 mpg average for the outgoing RX400h, the 2010 RX 450h should return roughly 27 mpg on average. The RX 450h will be available in both 2WD and part-time AWD, with the AWD system returning slightly poorer fuel economy.
The 2010 RX 350 features the same 3.5L V-6 engine as its hybrid twin, sans the hybrid drive system. Both models employ a redesigned double-wishbone rear suspension that both improves handling and increases rear cargo space by 5% over the previous model. While both vehicles have increased in size, they boast a claimed-segment-best 0.32 coefficient of drag.
New for the 2010 RX models is Lexus' "Remote Touch" controller for the Hard Disk Drive navigation system, a computer mouse-shaped device on the center console that sits right where your right hand normally rests. The device is similar to a joystick and controls a pointer on the navigation screen. Dedicated "menu," "map" and up and down scroll buttons are designed to make the device easy to use and Lexus has obviously worked to keep the number of screens to a minimum. The device can also be custom programmed to the level of feedback that the user prefers, allowing drivers to decide how "touchy" they want the pointer to be.
The 2010 RX models are replete with luxury touches inside. A casual language voice recognition system can control the navigation system and hands-free phone via Bluetooth. XM Satellite Radio capability is standard and, when subscribed, features XM Nav Traffic and Nav Weather features for real-time traffic and weather updates. Other options include a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, side cameras for added visibility when parking and a Sports Package featuring a performance-tuned suspension. Also available is a heads-up display that Lexus says is so bright that it can be seen even in direct sunlight.
Aside from the Remote Touch, Lexus has redesigned the dash with new gauges and a deeply recessed nav screen that's easier to glance at while keeping your eyes on the road. The gear selector has been moved up into the lower part of the center stack to make room for the Remote Touch, and though the center stack and center console blend together, they're differentiated by a metallic-colored trim plate on the center stack that sweeps across the center of the dash.
Standard on all RX models are 10 airbags and front-seat active head restraints. An optional Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system brings together multiple safety systems into one program, including ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Assist Control and Traction Control. The VDIM system coordinates all of the safety system and intervenes via steering wheel, throttle and braking adjustments to prevent skids. Also optional is a collision warning system and adaptive headlights and fog lights, as well as a system that automatically switches from high-beams to low-beams when another vehicle is approaching.
Visually, the new RX models are much bolder. Up front, Lexus has switched from a grille with horizontal slats to one with vertical slats reminiscent of Mercury. A larger hump in the hood emphasizes the new grille, and narrower, sharper headlights are set-off by sharp sculpting of the front fascia. In the rear, Lexus has flattened out the lower portion of the tailgate and moved the rear window wiper up under the spoiler for a cleaner look. Down below, the tail lights and reflectors are all-new and considerably sharper than on previous models. The RX 450h will be differentiated from the RX 350 by a unique grille, headlights, front fascia and wheels, as well as a Lexus logo featuring blue highlights.18-in wheels come standard on both models and 19-in rollers are optional.
The 2010 Lexus RX 350 will go on sale in February in the U.S. The RX 450h is expected to follow a few months after.