Lexus RX (03-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
With its sharp styling, upmarket image and lack of a diesel engine, it's clear the Lexus RX was always designed as a road going four-wheel drive car rather than an a proper offroader. As you'd expect from Lexus (which is owned by Toyota) build quality and reliability are second to none while superb ride comfort makes it great for covering long distances. In 2005 the RX300 was joined by the RX400h model which is actually a hybrid - and uses an electric motor alongside its petrol engine. This is the alternative to a conventional diesel and returns a useful 35mpg. In 2006 the RX300 was replaced by the RX350 which was both more powerful and more frugal than the smaller engine.
3.5 out of 5

Other Lexus reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

The RX doesn't have a Euro NCAP crash rating but it comes well equipped with safety kit including traction and stability control, seats designed to lessen whiplash injuries, electronic brakeforce distribution and nine airbags including multi-stage driver and passenger airbags, curtain shield airbags plus a driver's knee airbag.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

5 out of 5

Reliability

Only a handful of manufacturers come close to Lexus/Toyota reliability. The RX is well built with millimetre-perfect panel fit while mechanically it is also very durable. We've heard of no problems, but in the unlikely event, Lexus dealers are the best around.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

Owners report no major defects. A minor recall in 2004 to remedy LED stop lamps that could fail.