2008 Lexus RX: Road Test
2008 Lexus RX ▼
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- MSRP: $37,400 -$42,980
- Invoice: $33,099 -$38,250
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Our road test for the 2008 Lexus RX includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Lexus RX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Lexus RX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Lexus RX help you decide if a 2008 Lexus RX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
RX 350 is strong at any speed. The automatic transmission is always smooth, but downshifts for highway passing can be sluggish. RX 400h has impressive thrust and outstanding passing punch. In Consumer Guide testing, an AWD example did 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds. However, the gas/electric powertrain is prone to subtle but annoying surging and bogging in cruising conditions.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 3.2 |
In Consumer Guide tests, an AWD RX 350 averaged 19.1 mpg overall, and 21.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. AWD RX 400h averaged 23.5 mpg in mostly highway driving, and 22.7 with gas-eating performance runs and lots of city driving. Both models require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.7 |
The ride is firm but absorbent and controlled--nearly on par with a premium sedan--though the RX 400h is a bit harsher over sharp bumps than other RXs we've tested. There is little rough-surface thump.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
RXs are not happy hustling twisty roads, but they have modest cornering lean and secure grip. The steering feels a little numb on center in the RX 350 but is more direct in the 400h. The brakes are strong, but the pedal feels slightly mushy.
QUIETNESS
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
The drivetrains are quiet and refined. The pleasingly low overall noise levels approach those of some premium cars. The regular sunroof doesn't generate much turbulence or noise even when fully open at 70 mph, but the RX 350's multipanel sunroof produces more of both.
CONTROLS
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
The gauges are large and legible. Most controls are handy and intuitive, but a few require searching. The available navigation system incorporates some climate and audio functions, turning some simple adjustments into multistep procedures. Also, its touch screen shows fingerprints and can wash out in some light conditions. The screen in the RX 400h includes energy monitor and fuel-economy displays that can be distracting.
DETAILS
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 |
RX models feature exemplary cabin materials and workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
The seats are shaped and padded for long-haul comfort. A good basic driving stance is abetted by plenty of adjustments, but tall drivers may have trouble finding an agreeable seat and steering-wheel relationship. Step-in is a bit steep, but it is livable; RX 350's available air suspension's "access" mode drops the vehicle 1.2 inches from its normal height to ease entry and exit. The bulky rear-roof pillars and narrowish tailgate window impede vision astern.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Headroom and foot space are ample for adults sitting outboard. The seat slides fore and aft. Sliding it rearward affords generous legroom, even behind a tall front-seat occupant. The middle adult is slightly squeezed on a harder and higher cushion with little leg space. The backrests recline but are hard to adjust while seated. Entry and exit is OK, despite narrowish floor passages.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.4 |
The rear-seat sections fold in any combination with one easy motion and with their headrests in place, but they don't lay quite flat. RXs have class-competitive load volumes with seats up or down, but their limited height and sloped roofline preclude some tall or bulky cargo. Bountiful small-item storage includes a nifty sliding front console and two full-width covered wells under the cargo floor. A household-type two-prong outlet is behind the rear seat.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 5.8 |
This premium midsize SUV has many imitators, but few offer this Best Buy's blend of comfort, refinement, and build quality. Adding to its appeal are Lexus' strong resale values and kid-glove customer care. RX 350's prices soar with options, some of which you can easily do without. The gas/electric-hybrid RX 400h is costlier still, but it blends V8-like acceleration with V6 levels of fuel economy.
Total Score
| AWD 350 | AWD 400h | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 79 | 80 | 68.1 |
Total Score: 80
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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