pbm317

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/f...50-and-rx450h/

The G Man

Hummm, doesnt sound like a glowing review. More of the same but more expensive and 500 pounds heavier.

pbm317

Nothing too ground breaking. But they liked the drive a little better, possibly due to the double wishbone rear suspension, I'm glad it helps lessen the impact to the cargo area. Electric power steering that is slowly moving across all new Toyota/Lexus products.

They like the RemoteTouch control system.

That said, I think I'd have a hard time justifying the RX over the Toyota Venza, will have to see what the final pricing numbers look like for the RX.

Orzel

iTrader: (1)

That Autoblog article sounded a bit like they were damning with faint praise. At least they admit their bias up front. I'm also of the opinion that it is going to be really difficult to justify the new RX over what appers to be a solid performer in the Venza. Initial reports from Venza owners have been very positive. Jury is still out on this until I get a chance to test drive both. Based on our Dealer, the new RX is due in their showroom in early February.

DigMyM35x

Wow. I have to say, I went to look at the Venza as my wife's RX is coming off lease. I thought. . . hey, they look pretty decent and they're a bit cheaper. I also looked at the Highlander while I was there.

I was really surprised at how poor the quality was for the leather and the wood trim. I guess I took for granted how nice the quality is in the Lexus. I was just really disappointed with the Toyota 'Limited' level vehicles.

Worlds apart as far as I'm concerned (plus I think the Venza dash is extremely underwhelming).

In regard to this 2010 RX - hmmm, I like the exterior but I'm not sure how I feel about the center stack. It looks like a misformed letter 'D'. I'm guessing it will look better in person though.

Either way - I'll be glad to test drive one. When are they supposed to be released?

Jay

Arbitrage1

Ive driven a lot of cars and our RX is, simply put, a pleasure to drive.

I don't doubt that the new one will beat the competition for the same reasons.

biff44

500 lbs is probably deliberate. The RX350 was too light to qualify for full tax deductions as a business vehicle. Adding 500 lbs, I believe, puts it over that weight limit.

The G Man

I thought its suppose to look like the letter L, for Lexus.

pbm317

Biff, I believe the current RX's GVWR is ~5,300 an additional 500 pounds won't push it over the 6,000 lb threshold for that Business Vehicle Tax clause.