Reviewed by Susan Frissell

2013lexrxWhat can one say about the Lexus RX 350 sport-utility vehicle? It’s a favorite among SUV owners and drivers, has been since it first hit the showroom, and remains a repeat-buyers car. Although the RX may not win any styling design contest, it remains a tried-and-true performer, with luxury and comfort that is first rate.

The 2013 RX 350 SUV, now its third year into the third generation has some cosmetic upgrades, as well as refinements to already existing technology. Three versions are available and include the RX350, RX45h and RX350 F Sport, the latter of which is available only the U.S. The new inverted-trapezoid upper and lower grille takes some getting used to, but began to grow on us.

Daytime running lights are now located beneath the grille, and new for 2013 are clear headlight clusters that can be outfitted with a choice of HID, LED or halogen lamps. The wheels get a new 19-inch design added, and Lexus has given the RX four new exterior colors: Platinum Silver, Garnet Red, Fire Agate, and Lapis Lazuli.lexrxinterior

A new steering wheel with varying circumference updates the interior, as does the wood finish. Lexus has designed their ‘mouse,’ the multifunction remote touch interface device so that it is a little user friendly. For the most part, we found it fairly easy to use.

Our test RX 350 came equipped with a few options, causing the MSRP of $41,000 to hover near the $50,000 mark. First up are the heated and ventilated front seats ($640); Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound, single DVD/CD player, HD radio w/iTunes, tagging and 15-speakers (the same sound system in the 450h sedan), $995; Navigation System with Voice Command, Backup camera, Lexus Enform with destination assist and eDestination, App Suite, SiriusXM NavTraffic, NavWeather, Stocks, Sports and fuel prices (1 yr subscription), $2,775; and the Premium Package (leather trim interior, One-touch open/close moonroof, power-folding electrochromatic heated outside mirrors, driver’s seat/steering/mirror memory w/3 settings, $2,260.

A driver can become accustomed to such luxury and being without it can be an adjustment. For over-the-road driving the Lexus RX 350 is a great cruiser.

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SPECS

MSRP: $41, 060; total vehicle price $48,625; destination $895

Engine: 3.5-Liter 270 hp., 248 lb. ft. torque, Four-Cam 24-valve V-6 w/Variable Valve Timing

Transmission: 6-speed automatic with snow mode, full-time active torque control all-wheel-drive

Wheelbase: 107.9 in.

Length: 187.8 in.

Width: 74.2 in.

Height: 67.7 in.

Wheels: 18-inch aluminum alloy

Tires:  235/60RV18

EPA fuel economy: 18-20 mpg.

Fuel tank capacity:

Warranty: 4 yr.,/60,000-mile basic: