Vehicle Type: Crossover
History/Description: The Lexus RX lineup effectively helped kick off the luxury crossover SUV scene some generations ago, and 2010 saw the third generation model launch on Canadian shores with new power, styling and feature content that left the RX’s original blend of affordable luxury, quality, reliability and just-right sizing largely unchanged.
Notably, the RX is the recipient of numerous awards for owner satisfaction, reliability, low maintenance costs, safety and more. As a sure bet in a luxury crossover, this one’s hard to beat. Newer used models may include portions of remaining warranty, roadside assistance and Lexus owner privileges, including concierge services and preferred pricing packages for various attractions, too.
Lexus’s Canadian-built luxury hauler offered up both gas-powered and hybrid variants to meet a wide range of needs. Feature content included a head-up display, climate controlled leather, high-resolution Optitron gauges, Bluetooth, navigation, wood trim, a sunroof, automatic climate control, automatic xenon lights, radar cruise control and more. Audiophiles are advised to seek out a model with the Mark Levinson stereo system, and numerous packages can be sought out to fine-tune a used RX to the shopper’s precise budget, needs and lifestyle.
Engines / Trim: Look for V6 power and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all models. Standard RX350 variants got a 3.5L V6 with 275 hp and an automatic transmission. Hybrid-powered variants were called RX450h, and packed a hybridized version of the 3.5L V6, running the Atkinson cycle with a lower compression ratio, and adding an electric motor drive system, pushing power to 297 horses.
Notably, a Touring Package adds a voice-commanded navigation system, back-up camera, premium, climate-controlled seats and a self-dimming rearview mirror. The F-Sport model adds big wheels, sporty design touches and a sports-tuned suspension, and the Ultra Premium 2 Package goes top-dog, with all of the toys, including a rear seat DVD console, push-button start and heaps more.
What Owners Like: Overall, it’s a sense of practical luxury, well-appointed cabin, flexibility and overall comfort that get RX owners talking. A quiet ride is reported, along with great handling and traction in snowy weather. Styling and smoothness are also highly rated.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for more at-hand storage, a more detailed and upscale cabin, a third row of seating, and a more modern and easy-to-use navigation system. Some drivers report a rough ride on some surfaces, more on models with bigger wheels. Some owners of the hybrid-powered version of the RX wish for less whining noises as the electric drive system works away beneath the vehicle in some situations.
Here’s a list of owner reviews
Common Issues: Start with a walk-around of your potential used RX candidate, checking the condition of the wheels, checking that both xenon projector headlamps illuminate, and ensuring the front bumper is properly attached at the edges and lines up with the panels adjacent to it.
2012 Lexus RX 350
April 24, 2012
2013 Lexus RX 350 F Sport
June 6, 2013
2010 Lexus RX 450h
October 20, 2009
The RX 450h returned "impressive" fuel consumption for a vehicle of its size, says James, though cold weather and James' highway-centric commute probably hampered more than helped.
