FEATURES | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
The Remote Touch controller works but requires too much effort, so it is distracting.
MSN Autos
The new interface is immediately intuitive and a comfort to those spooked by previous exposure to multifunction controllers (iDrive, anyone?).
Edmunds
cameras all over the place including side-view mirror mounted units which show how close you're getting to the curb
Jalopnik
we still had to go through about three menus to make it recalculate our route after it announced slow traffic on the road ahead.
CNET
Whenever the camera determines that the high beams could be a hazard to others, it switches to low beams.
New York Times
The 2012 Lexus RX models really won't leave you wanting; the standard-equipment list is exhaustive and comprehensive, and the options are reserved for interior and infotainment upgrades, largely.
The RX 350 is still sold in a single trim level and includes a twelve-speaker sound sytem, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and ten-way power front seats.
Upgraded leather seating, a side-view monitor, USB connectivity for MP3 players, a Mark Levinson sound system, a hard-drive navigation system, XMNavTraffic, a rear-seat entertainment system, ventilated front seats, remote start, LED adaptive headlamps, and a sport-minded suspension are all among the extras. A head-up display is also available to cut down further on driving distraction. Watch the bottom line, though, as prices can rise significantly.
Lexus has adopted a "Remote Touch" controller bundled with its navigation system; it acts like a computer mouse to control audio, climate, GPS and other systems. It's yet another distinct take on infotainment interfaces; one one side, it takes less time to learn than the knob-style systems from Germany, or the voice-command-driven MyFord Touch system, but we're not all that convinced that keeping your eye on the mouse pointer while driving is a good idea.
Conclusion
The 2012 Lexus RX 350 offers some enticing high-tech upgrades, but the base package offers plenty of luxury appeal.
