I just got my 2010 RX350 FWD , NAV, Comfort and Premium package. It's quite very nice . What disappoints me is the high idle noise and when the car starts from 1st gear. After accelerating to 2nd and higher gears, it's quite smooth and quiet. This is my first RX and SUV. Our other is a ES350 and I had a 2004 Sienna before - these were relatively quiet as oppose to the RX. The noise kinds of bother me because it is very 'truck growl' and not very silky sound.

Is this the way these new generation RX's run or is there anything wrong?

 

That's the way they sound. Especially high idle, that is a little noisy, I have gotten used to it and don't notice it anymore. You're right it is kind of a 'truck growl'. I think that is what Lexus was shooting for to give it a little more masculine appeal. They also have new manifolds on this generation and that could be contributing to the noise. In a few months you may not notice it.

Enjoy the ride.

 

The noise sound like a little diesel engine, and this is normal. But, as the car warmed up the noise goes away. Next time watch the temp gauge and when the needle reach above C, then the noise should go away. I hear the same noise in the morning as I am driving my RX and in first gear and stepping on the gas to accelerate.

 

I got the same experience.



After the warm up, you should feel better. Also, this RX uses the chain instead of the belt. Noiser.

I also feel the noise when going uphills with low gears.

 

I think you're noticing that primarily because it's a cold start. Let it warm up for a minute or two.