2010 Lexus RX 350/RX 450h

It was 10 years ago that Lexus rewrote the rules regarding sport-utility vehicles when it introduced its RX series, an upscale crossover based on a car platform. This groundbreaking entry now enters its third generation with the completely redesigned 2010 RX 350 and RX 450h.

The new body has a much more muscular look and now the 450h model will be differentiated from the 350 with a unique grille, hybrid badging and blue-trimmed Lexus logos, plus a new front bumper, blue-tinted headlamps, optional 19-in. wheels and LED headlamps.

Both models retain their two-row 5-passenger cabins with a new "dual-zone" cockpit design. This layout has a display zone centered around the dash-mounted 8-in. navigation display, while the operation zone, closer to the driver, includes a remote touch-navigation controller and steering wheel-mounted multi-information switch.

Mechanical improvements include an upgraded 3.5-liter 275-bhp V-6 mated to a 6-speed front-mounted transaxle. Base RX 350 models are front-drive, but all-wheel drive with active torque control remains an option. The RX 450h employs the same 3.5-liter engine mated to the Lexus Hybrid Drive system that uses a new, more efficient inverter that helps boost output to a combined 295-bhp.

The Lexus RX 450h comes in either front- or all-wheel drive as well, the latter employing a rear-mounted electric motor generator, which allows all four wheels to perform regenerative braking, and charge the vehicle's batteries more effectively.

In addition to the powertrain improvements, the RX series features a new double-wishbone independent rear suspension, which improves both ride and handling. The 2010 RX 350 goes on sale in February, followed in the spring by the RX 450h.