As a previous RX owner, I have always liked this Lexus crossover SUV. The latest model, the 2011 RX 350, offers technological improvements but, in my opinion, is less attractive than previous models. The new front and rear ends look too smooth and are devoid of interesting angles. Fortunately, the interior quickly makes you forget the exterior. The cabin is full of nice leather and fine wood accents. The most notable tech feature is the optional heads-up display. It keeps important data such as current speed displayed on the inside windshield so your eyes can stay on the road. Not all of the tech is useful, though. The new navigation system with the mouselike pointer was tough to master and potentially dangerous to use while driving — very distracting. Nevertheless, the ride was smooth and the engine had ample power. I achieved 22 mpg in mixed driving. While Lexus is still the one to beat in the luxury crossover segment, this RX can get pricey with options. –Joe Chulick
The Lexus RX350 has the same idiotic mouselike device for selecting functions such as the stereo and heat that I first encountered in the Lexus HS 250h. It is no better in the RX 350. The mouse is used to move a pointer on the navigation screen, and it is necessary when choosing something like a radio station. It is the most distracting implement I have ever used in a car. It is not only annoying to use but requires far more attention than it should. Although the RX 350 continues to be the conformist's choice for an SUV, and is perfectly suited for the task, as long as it is equipped with this daft mouse it is very firmly off my list of recommended cars. –Paul Hagger
It is easy to understand why the current RX 350 continues to be Lexus' top-selling model. Redesigned for 2010, the RX 350 retains its looks, with slightly more angular details, and continues to deliver top-shelf luxury. It also offers the most desirable SUV traits: more room and a higher ride height. The elegant and clean interior design exudes luxury, coddling passengers with fine materials and the latest high-tech features. The new Remote Touch controller, used for selecting things such as the climate control and the radio, operates like a computer mouse. However, I found it distracting. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 275 horsepower, which is more than adequate. Steering is light, the suspension is smooth, and it feels as if the RX 350 has been tuned to make driving as easy as possible. –Mike Meredith
Lexus has made some nice updates to the RX for 2010: The exterior has clean lines and the interior is definitely upscale. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the back seat offers plenty of room. The RX also offers reasonable cargo space. Driving and handling are impressive for a crossover — I could be happy driving this vehicle every day. However, the new Lexus' mouselike interface controls would make me crazy. Clicking on a feature on the display requires looking at the screen for an extended time, which can mean several seconds of not looking at the road. Seeing and selecting radio presets are also much too complicated. The RX is a great luxury crossover, but the new interface almost ruins the whole driving experience. –Perry Stern