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2008 Lexus RX 350 Refined Review

April 2007
Filed under: LEXUS Car News | LEXUS Headlines

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Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the RX 350 produces 270 horsepower and 251 lb.-ft. of torque. Featuring all-aluminum construction, the V6 harnesses the benefits of advanced technologies to optimize performance, fuel economy and low emissions. The V6 enables the RX 350 to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds for the FWD model and 7.4 seconds for the AWD model.

The performance of the RX 350 is comparable to the output of some competitive V8 engines while still providing a fuel-economy rating among the best in class for non-hybrids. Its five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is tuned for refined drivability as well as excellent fuel efficiency. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating for the RX 350 is 20 mpg (18 mpg city/23 mpg highway) for the FWD model and 19 mpg (17 mpg city/22 mpg highway) for the AWD. The RX 350 retains its ULEV II emissions certification.

The highly sophisticated engine uses electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. In addition, an electronic throttle control presides over several systems to maintain superior control of power flow. This system, Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETC-i), helps manage idle speed, cruise control, Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). The result is engine efficiency with excellent power and impressive fuel economy.

Refined Comfort and Luxury Features
The RX 350 produces minimal cabin noise allowing for a very quiet interior that provides an exceptional listening environment for its standard premium, satellite-ready, eight-speaker AM/FM/CD audio player with in-dash six-CD autochanger. The audio system is compatible with MP3/WPA-formatted CDs and includes Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL), Radio Data System (RDS) and a digital signal processor. Commonly used audio functions are accessible via steering-wheel-mounted controls.

For true audiophiles, a Mark Levinson Premium Audio System is optionally available. This 11-speaker system features an in-dash six-disc DVD/CD autochanger, DVD-audio and DVD-video playback as well as remarkable sound clarity at all volumes (with 210 watts at 0.1% THD, 20-20,000 Hz). An available factory-installed, rear-seat DVD-entertainment system features a nine-inch fold-away video screen for convenient viewing.

The Lexus DVD-Navigation System is optionally available on the RX 350 and includes voice-recognition that will allow the driver to input a desired destination by voice command while driving.

Like other Lexus navigation systems, the system is offered in conjunction with a rear back-up camera to supplement the driver's visibility of the area behind the vehicle. The camera will provide the driver a view of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle, automatically projecting a color image on the navigation system's seven-inch VGA screen when the reverse gear is engaged.

In addition to English, the navigation system includes Spanish and French text-display options. The user can select the language preference at system start-up.

Lexus' craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide sumptuous comfort by design. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats with available memory, a sliding center console, adjustable light in the visor vanity mirrors, and wood interior trim set the tone for luxury in the RX 350. Luxury extends to the smallest details, such as illuminated front cup holders and a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel with integrated audio-system and trip-computer controls.
Premium options include a power-tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, and an illuminated entry system that lights the door handles, scuff plates, and front footwells.

A unique, wide-opening multipanel moonroof is an optional alternative to the optional conventional moonroof. With an open area that is 150-percent larger than a normal moonroof and an illumination area that is 250-percent larger, the multipanel moonroof is made of three separate glass panels. The front small panel is angled to reduce wind noise, the rear panel slides backwards on top of vehicle, while the middle glass panel slides backwards on top of rear panel.

Advanced All-Wheel-Drive
The AWD RX 350 model features a viscous limited-slip center differential, which enhances drivability in all types of driving conditions. The full-time AWD system provides a constant 50/50 front-to-rear power split. If slippage occurs, the viscous differential directs torque to the wheels with the most traction.

A direct-type Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system alerts the driver via a warning light on the instrument panel if a significant drop in tire pressure is detected in any of the tires.
Produced in Kyushu, Japan, and Cambridge in southern Ontario, Canada, the 2008 RX 350 will begin arriving at Lexus dealerships by the beginning of February.

Exterior

Advanced Styling
Features such as 17-inch alloy wheels and an integrated rear spoiler make this SUV more aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing.

Power Rear Door
For easier loading and unloading, the power rear door can be raised or lowered with the touch of a button.

Tow-Hitch Receiver
The RX is available with a tow-hitch receiver [1] [2], which is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.

Adaptive Front Lighting
To help avoid accidents before they happen, the available Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) pivots the headlamps during turns to illuminate more of the road.

Rain-Sensing Wipers
When this available feature’s sensor detects the presence of rain on the windshield, the wiper blades are activated at the appropriate speed.

Dynamic Laser Cruise Control
This available system uses laser technology to help monitor and maintain a pre-set following distance between your vehicle and the one traveling just ahead.

Power Moonroof
This available moonroof can be opened and closed with one touch and features a sliding sunshade.

Interior

Cabin Amenities
The luxurious features of the interior include dual-zone climate control as well as a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob.

Lexus Voice-Activated DVD Navigation System
This available system understands over 100 voice commands and can direct you to your destination quickly and easily.

Mark Levinson® Audio
A Lexus exclusive, the available Mark Levinson [1] Premium Audio System features 11 speakers and 210 watts at 0.1% THD, 20-20,000 Hz [2] of maximum power.

Auto-Dimming Mirror
The rearview mirror automatically dims to reduce excessive glare.

Adaptable Cargo Area
40/20/40-split rear seats and an auto-retracting tonneau cover provide an accommodating space for your passengers and cargo.

Backup Camera
The available back-up camera [3] helps the driver’s rearview visibility when traveling in reverse.

Lexus Audio
Eight speakers and an in-dash six-disc CD auto-changer are included with this standard audio system.

HomeLink® Remote Control
This universal transceiver allows you to control devices such as garage doors and entry gates from your vehicle.

Rear-Seat Entertainment System
The available Lexus DVD Rear-Seat Entertainment System (RSES) includes a nine-inch LCD screen and wireless headphones [4].

Bluetooth® Technology
Compatible Bluetooth® [5] mobile phones are able to interact wirelessly with the available DVD Navigation System.

Satellite Radio
With the available XM® Satellite Radio [6], you can listen to music, news, sports, weather and traffic with digital clarity.

Performance

270-hp Engine
This 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 270 horsepower [1].

Dual Variable Valve Timing
This feature continuously adjusts the engine’s valve timing to provide optimum power at any speed.

Superb Handling
With features such as fully independent suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, this SUV rides more like a luxury sedan.

Five-Speed Automatic
An Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) provides a more comfortable driving experience.

Four-Wheel Air Suspension
The available Four-Wheel Air Suspension adjusts vehicle height according to driving conditions and needs.

Ultra-Low Emissions
The RX is a certified Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II).

Front- or All-Wheel Drive
Choose the front-wheel drive (FWD) RX or the available all-wheel drive (AWD) RX with viscous limited-slip center differential for even better handling.

Ventilated Disc Brakes
Ventilated front disc brakes dissipate heat while they help improve braking performance and accident avoidance.

Safety

Airbags
A sophisticated network of sensors and seven airbags [1] helps protect you and your passengers in certain types of severe frontal and side impacts.

Reinforced Body
A range of structural reinforcements, as well as front and rear crumple zones, helps protect you and your passengers.

Daytime Running Lights
To help others see your vehicle during daylight hours, it comes equipped with automatic daytime running lights.

Vehicle Stability Features
Advanced Actively Safe features such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) [2] and Traction Control (TRAC) help keep your vehicle on course while turning.

Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System
One of 14 different Actively Safe features in the RX, the system alerts you when the tire pressure is critically low.

ABS With Brake Assist
An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist [3] helps the driver avoid accidents by reducing stopping time and enhancing control.

Theft-Deterrent System
With this theft-deterrent system, a rolling code immobilizes the engine unless the proper key is used.

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