2011 Lexus RX: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Lexus RX should see no major changes following its redesign for the 2010 model year. This premium midsize crossover SUV seats five and should reprise RX 350 and gas/electric hybrid RX 450h versions. Both should be available with front- or all-wheel drive. RX 350 should have a 275-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The RX 450h would pair a 3.5-liter gas V6 with an electric motor for 295 hp total. Like other Toyota and Lexus hybrids, the RX 450h can run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. It requires no plug-in charging and uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Maximum towing capacity should be 3500 lb. Available safety features should include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and front knee airbags. Also offered should be Lexus' Pre-Collision System, which is designed to tighten the seatbelts and ready full braking power when sensors detect an imminent collision. Hill-start assist should be standard. The available navigation system is controlled by a console-mounted "Remote Touch" module and includes real-time traffic and weather alerts. Remaining available should be a side-view monitoring system, which uses TV cameras to show a wide-angle passenger-side view of the vehicle on the navigation screen. Other available features should include a hard drive for storing digital music files, dual-screen DVD entertainment, adaptive cruise control, and a sport suspension. This report is based on evaluations of the 2010 Lexus RX.