Interesting that you mention the non-clearing windows.
Mine are also like that on both the RX and IS. I think its to reduce the amount of scratches on the glass. On the other hand, BMW 1 series have really tight seals, they clear the windows with one up/down motion but end up having loads of fine vertical scratches after a while.
However, the front side windows have rain repellent glass so the water usually disappears after a short drive