The navigation system ($2,650) with Bluetooth and voice command capability includes a rear-view camera that projects an image of what’s behind whenever reverse is engaged.

The navigation system with Mark Levinson audio ($6,190) on the RX 350 starts with the Premium Plus Package and adds 210 watts, more speakers with a subwoofer and high-tech digital sound processing. On the RX 400h, it costs less ($4,130) but requires purchasing either the Premium or Premium Plus Package. The Mark Levinson audio system is available as a stand-alone option on the RX 400h ($980).

A heated-seat package ($665) comes with rain-sensing wipers and headlight washers. The Tow Prep ($160) package includes a transmission cooler, heavy-duty alternator and larger radiator. Other options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system ($1,740 for the RX 350; $1,840 for the RX 400h), laser-managed Dynamic Cruise Control ($600), and HID headlamps ($815). XM and Sirius satellite radio are offered as a dealer-installed option.

A few options are available on only the RX 350: The giant multi-panel sunroof ($2,840) comes packaged with features from the Premium Package. The Performance Package ($4,055) includes all of the items in the Premium PLUS Package, plus 18-inch graphite-colored aluminum alloy wheels with wider tires, height-adjustable air suspension, sequential-shifting transmission, and rain-sensing wipers. Heated front seats ($540) can be ordered as a stand-alone option.

Safety features that come standard include the mandated front airbags, plus a smaller airbag to protect the driver’s knees. Front passengers get side-impact airbags for torso protection, while the curtain-style head protection airbags span both rows and deploy to offer head protection if the vehicle senses the possibility of a rollover. Advanced ABS, traction control and electronic stability control come standard.

The Lexus RX is based on a modified version of the same platform used by the Toyota Camry and Lexus ES 350 sedans.

The current Lexus RX models build on the style set by the original RX 300. Its shape is defined by radically raked, body-colored pillars at the four corners of the cabin, with window frames blacked out to blend into the ovoid shape of the side windows.

The raked-back front fascia and headlamps are reminiscent of the Lexus ES 330 sedan, and the optional, gem-like high-intensity discharge headlights look like they mean business. The headlights also feature an Adaptive Front Lighting System, which uses an on-board processor to calculate the optimum angle to illuminate a turn then swivels the headlamp closest to the turn accordingly, allowing the driver to see better around corners.

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