News & Awards

• By Consumer Guide Staff
• 2007 Lexus RX

• Consumer Guide (January 9, 2007)

Conventional-powertrain versions of this SUV get more power for 2007. The RX 350 has a 270-hp V6 and replaces the RX 330, which had a 223-hp V6. A 5-speed automatic remains its sole transmission. The gas/electric-hybrid RX 400h again teams a V6 with battery-powered electric motors for a total of 268 hp. It uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Like other Lexus and Toyota hybrids, the RX 400h can run one or both of its power sources, depending on driving demands. It requires no plug-in charging.

RX is the upscale cousin of the Highlander from Lexus-parent Toyota. Both are car-type SUVs, but RX has different styling and seats five vs. Highlander's available seven. RXs are available with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive that lacks low-range gearing. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. So are a driver knee airbag, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags with rollover deployment. Options include leather upholstery, power tilt/telescope steering column, adaptive cruise control, a navigation system with rearview camera, heated front seats, and DVD entertainment. Options exclusive to the 350 include a multipanel sunroof and load-leveling height-adjustable suspension.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs. Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90. New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Chrysler Aspen, and Lincoln MKX.

News

Our moles see a redesigned RX bowing in March 2008 as an early '09 model. It's said to be a bit larger than the current RX, but still smaller overall than sister Toyota Highlander. More news should be breaking soon, so keep checking back with us.

That also holds for the JX 470, a larger Lexus crossover expected in mid-2007 as an early-'08 entry. Based on the GS sedan platform, it reportedly uses a 4.3-liter V8—"470" notwithstanding—and there's talk of a 3.5-liter V6 version for good measure. Rear drive and all-wheel drive will be offered. So, too, three-row seating in an overall package sized like the recent LF-X concept. That should mean overall length of around 196 inches and a wheelbase near 116 inches. Assuming the concept's styling is predictive, the JX will look simple, square, and slab-sided. Key competitors are said to include Infiniti's FX models, the Mercedes-Benz M- and R-Class, and BMW's redesigned 2007 X5.

Meantime, Lexus is pondering a compact crossover aimed at the BMW X3 and Acura's new RDX. Though not yet approved, it's being rumored as a possible 2009 model based on Toyota's just-redesigned RAV4 and so would be smaller than the RX. Stay tuned.

This article was written by a third party, and does not necessarily reflect the viewpoints or opinions of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A, Inc. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., is not responsible for any errors that may be contained therein.

For complete vehicle information, capabilities and limitations, see your local Lexus dealer.