BobThorton

Hi I would be a first time Lexus buyer and I am interested in a used RX. I am looking at a few different certified preowned models ranging in price from 27k to 33k but haven't approached a dealer yet. I was wondering if an experienced RX owner can help provide a breakdown of the following

1. pros/cons of 2009 vs. 2010. I understand 2010 is the most recent generation, but 2009 doesn't look all that old to me, and exterior styling is all I am mostly concerned with right now. My initial approach to engines/drivetrains is to get the minimum; engine size isn't such an important thing to me, mostly just concerned with styling. so if you can tell me what separates 2009 and 2010 in terms of styling and options, i'd appreciate knowing that.

2. what kinds of problems or issues would you look for specifically during your test drive of a 2009 or 2010 RX.

MEP7557

The 2010 was a complete redesign of the RX. The interior as well as the exterior is different. The suspension is a new design as well for 2010, which made the RX ride and handle better as well as opening up space in the rear. The interior is also slightly larger over all. The drive train was updated and a 6 spd auto is now used. The nav system is no longer DVD based and is improved with a larger screen. I could go on but I think those are the big ones. I would go for the 2010.

kitlz

Add push button start, smart access and USB port to the list. Like MEP said, there's too many differences. The best thing to do is drive both. BTW, Lexus has heavy incentives on the '12 RX to make it worth your while to go 3rd gen. And welcome to CL, BobThorton.

Marqevans

I think you should drive both and see what you like. I really like the USB connection on the third generation.

Sevn86

I think you will really like the 2010 over the 2009. We originally started out wanting to get a 2009 and ended up getting a loaded 2010. Im glad we did.

User 41924

I've put quite a few miles on a 2nd gen RX (2006), and currently own a 2010. The difference is huge, and I thought the 2nd gen was great to begin with!! Interior space is far better, and there is no comparing the driveability. Make sure you drive both. I bet you see the difference as well.

j0emama

I was in the same boat trying to decide between 2009 - 2010. Just looking at both of them the 2009 looks dated even though still pretty decent. We opt for the 2010, it was just better all around.

Keep in mind the 2009 actual design is even older than that; I think 05 or 06 when it was redesigned.

GoHuskers

2004-2009 models are similar in design. 2004-2006 are RX330 with 3.3l V6 ~230 hp while 2007-2009 are RX350 with 3.5l V6 ~270 hp. They all have 5-speed Auto. RX400h starts in 2006-2009.

I will get 2010 instead. Much better vehicle. We currently have four (4) RX CUV of all 3 generations.

bagofchips

I find it interesting that some of you think the 2009- RX looks "dated". If I look at the exterior of the 2010 onward, it looks more rounded, uninspired, more like everybody else and dare I say if anything harks back to 1950s American design. (And let's exclude the ricefest of the F Sport from that statement.) That's an extreme comparison, of course. The 2009 at least looks like it's from this century.

Sevn86

Glad to hear u went with a 2010

2011RX350

I too personally prefer the looks of the 2009 but decided I need the cooled seats for FL and Southern USA use. If you live in N CA and won't drive in the extreme heat or So CA or NV deserts, the 2009 is very nice. If you do expect to drive in in So CA and 120-130F desert heat, then the 3rd gen RX with its cooled seats (heated/cooled option) is the way to go. The 3rd gen RX series has a huge amount of cooling available, esp with the tow prep package. That is the way I prioritized it...

dotbowels

I can get $5,000 off a 2012 that lists for slightly under $50K or a 2013 with the same options but only $1,000 off.

On the backend I should get most of it back shouldn't I?

Are there a lot of differences in the 13 versus the 12??

Thanks Dorothy

dctex99

with the new Front End some will think of the '13 as the fourth generation even tho not alot of
big changes. I got $2800+ tax equaling $3115 off my '13 so a no brainer! Just the improvement in the mouse really helps; they truly make every year better!!

dotbowels

Meant to start a new thread sorry for the hijacking I'll repost. Dorothy

nightdiff

i bought the 2009 picking up this week,but i thought it had push button start..lol i tested so many years i cant remember now.Did 2009 have push button start option?