2010 Lexus RX

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The 2010 Lexus RX is redesigned, gaining freshened styling, new features, and an updated gas/electric hybrid model. This premium midsize crossover SUV seats five and comes in RX 350 and new-for-2010 hybrid RX 450h versions. Both are available with front- or all-wheel drive. The 2010 model is about an inch longer in wheelbase and overall length compared with the 2009 RX. RX 350 has a 275-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission.



This represents a gain of 5 hp over the 2009 RX 350. The RX 450h pairs a 3.5-liter gas V6 with an electric motor for 295 hp total, an increase of 27 hp over the 2009 RX 400h. Like other Toyota and Lexus hybrids, the RX 450h can run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. It requires no plug-in charging and uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.



Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and front knee airbags. Also offered is Lexus' Pre-Collision System, which is designed to tighten the seatbelts and ready full braking power when sensors detect an imminent collision. Hill-start assist is a new standard feature. The available navigation system is controlled by a console-mounted "Remote Touch" module and includes real-time traffic and weather alerts.



An available side-view monitoring system uses TV cameras to show a wide-angle passenger-side view of the vehicle on the navigation screen. Other available features on the 2010 Lexus RX include a hard drive for storing digital music files, dual-screen DVD entertainment, adaptive cruise control, and a sport suspension. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.