Lexus Rx Series

Overall: An effective prescription for stylish all-weather touring that respects the environment and coddles its occupants in sybaritic luxury; standard all-wheel-drive

Drivetrain: The gasoline-only RX 350's 3.5-litre V-6 makes 275 horsepower to drive all four wheels; the gas-hybrid RX 450h uses the same engine and an integrated electric motor to generate 245 horses through a continuously variable transmission.

-For many of its loyal customers, the RX represents the perfect harmonization of luxury and utility.

The 2010 edition continues with this formula, but with additional style, power and technical upgrading wrapped in a package that faintly resembles the original 1998 model.

If the exterior is a study in restraint, the cabin can be considered wildly fashionable. The dashboard flows dramatically across the control panel as if it was left in the sun too long. It's visually arresting and totally unexpected in a Lexus.

The body structure rests on a reworked platform highlighted by a newly configured independent rear suspension that, according to Lexus, makes the RX more comfortable and agile and provides an enlarged cargo area.

Statistics indicate a slight gain in storage space with the rear seat in place.

Keeping the base RX 350 on pace is a 3.5-litre V-6 that produces 275 horsepower, an increase of five horses over the outgoing 350 model.

A major gain is derived, however, from a new six-speed "Multi-Mode" automatic transmission that replaces the previous five-speed unit and which helps generate improved fuel economy.

The gasoline-electric RX 450h functions with its own 245-h. p. version of the 3.5 V-6, but combines with up to three motor generators to produce 295 h.p., 27 more than the 2009 hybrid.

All-wheel drive is also a standard part of the RX 350; its new electronically controlled system sends 100 per cent of the power to the front wheels under optimal road conditions, but directs up to 50 per cent of the torque to the rear wheels when needed.

Wall-to-wall convenience items include a new-for-2010 keyless access with push-button start.

Available up-level content ranges from leather seats, moonroof and voice-activated navigation to a premium sound system and a heads-up windshield display for speedometer and other key functions.

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