2010 Lexus RX 350
Prices: $36,800-$38,200

The Lexus RX is the first premium crossover vehicle, introduced in early 1998, because it was an SUV built on a modified Lexus car platform. It's long been one of the most popular Lexus models.

The 2010 RX 350 remains a picture of refinement, while adding enough significant new features to prompt owners of older RX models to take a close at it.

The new mid-size model costs $36,800 with front-wheel drive and $38,200 with an all-new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system.

Styling changes are minor, with such things as a revised grille and broader "shoulders" with pronounced wheel wells housing larger 18-inch alloy wheels wearing lower-profile 60-series tires for a more athletic look--and better handling. The overall appearance continues to be smooth, with an integrated rear spoiler hiding the windshield wiper mechanism.

A new Smart Access keyless-entry system uses a touch sensor-type smart switch on the front doors that results in a sleeker, high-tech appearance. Doors extend below the entry sill, helping keep out dirt and moisture.

Fit and finish of the RX 350 are excellent, which is typical of Lexus models.

A smooth 3.5-liter V-6 is retained, but now produces 275 horsepower--up from 270. Some 90 percent of the 256 pound-feet of torque is on hand from 2,300 to 6,100 rpm, a range where torque is most utilized.

A responsive, more-modern six-speed automatic transmission replaces a dated five-speed unit, which exhibited lazy response during full-throttle downshifts, as if Lexus didn't want occupants ruffled. A "Multi-Mode" feature lets a driver shift manually by moving the gated shift lever to the "S" slot and then pushing it forward to upshift and backward to downshift.

There's little reason for most to use the manual-shift feature, but some who do that will likely order the optional Sports Package. It contains a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels with 55-series tires and a Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

Lexus says that system has technology that anticipates loss of vehicle control "in virtually any direction." It governs all of the RX 350's standard dynamic handling systems--the anti-lock brakes, brake assist, and stability and traction control. It uses them collectively and seamlessly to make corrections while allowing "higher dynamic capability."

Sharpened handling and agility are partly provided by the new double-wishbone rear suspension, which replaces a strut-based configuration and provides more cargo room.

Also helping roadability is a new standard electric power steering system for better agility and feel, while eliminating parasitic losses of a hydraulic steering pump. Eliminating hydraulic oil also reduces maintenance.

My test RX 350 all-wheel drive model provided the handling of a good sedan with a smooth, but not sloppy, ride. Brakes are enhanced, and linear brake action for consistently smooth stops.

Those who fear sliding backwards on hills--such as San Francisco residents -- will appreciate the "Hill-start Assist," which uses brake pressure to help prevent the RX 350 from moving backward when starting out on an incline.     

The RX 350's dual-overhead-camshaft, 24-valve V-6 is potent. That's a good thing because this crossover is fairly heavy, at 4,178 pounds with front-drive and 4,343 pounds with all-wheel drive (AWD).

One reason the RX 350 weighs a lot is because it's very well-equipped, with such standard items as power front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, power tilt-telescopic steering column and the usual power accessories and features found in upscale vehicles.

However, many desirable options are in costly packages. They include a $2,000 package with adaptive front lighting and heated and ventilated driver/passenger front seats. There's also a $4,980 package with a dual-screen rear entertainment system/navigation system and a $4,800 luxury package with leather-trimmed seats, gorgeous wood-and-leather steering wheel and a power sunroof.

 But some extras are relatively cheap. For instance, glass breakage sensors are only $205 and a remote engine start is $375. Stand-alone options include that wood/leather steering wheel, 19-inch wheels, rearview mirror backup monitor and pre-collision system and dynamic radar cruise control.

There are no less than 10 air bags, including knee air bags for the driver and front passenger.

Those who live in snow-belt areas should especially appreciate the new "Active Torque Control" AWD system. It uses an electronically controlled coupling ahead of the rear differential to vary torque distribution anywhere from 100:0 to 50:50, depending on driver dynamics and road conditions. The new system is 35 pounds lighter than the previous system and reduces parasitic losses by 30 percent.

The 0-60 mph time of the RX 350 is pretty good: 7.4 seconds with front-drive and 7.5 seconds with all-wheel drive. Lexus says those performance figures are obtained with 91-octane gasoline.  

Estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg in the city and 25 on highways with front-drive and 18 and 24 with all-wheel drive. That's decent for a fast, heavy luxury crossover.

The new Lexus introduces the optional new "Intelligent Adaptive Front-Lighting System," which estimates, when entering a curve, where the vehicle will be in three seconds, based on speed and the angle of the tires--and adjusts the lateral aim of the headlights.

An optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and maintain a pre-set following distance from a vehicle ahead.

You'd have to drive like an idiot to get into trouble with the RX 350.

This new Lexus accommodates a variety of music sources, providing auxiliary and USB inputs, Bluetooth Audio wireless connectivity and standard XM satellite radio capability, which requires a subscription.

Long doors have large handles that have a surface which subtly twists outward from the front to the rear to give a comfortable grip. Rearview mirrors have LED turn signal lights and fold in to prevent parking lot damage.

It's easy to slide in and out of the quieter interior with its roomy front seat area, where large seats provide relatively good support. Backlit gauges are easy to read, although audio and climate controls are rather small. The transmission shifter is pretty much out of the way, and there's a large, dual-level glove compartment. All doors have cupholders and storage areas.

A Remote Touch controller lets the user operate the navigation system, climate, audio, and phone controls by selecting screen menus.

The back seat area is roomy, but its center area is too firm for comfort, making this a comfortable four-occupant vehicle. At least there's a rear center fold-down armrest.

The cargo area opening is rather high, but there's decent space for stuff even without the rear seatbacks flipped forward for more storage room.

Rivals to the RX 350 include the Acura MDX, BMW X5 and Buick Enclave. Some are sportier, but this Lexus has excellent luxury, prestige and good resale value.