With such an extensive assortment of standard and optional accoutrements, one might wonder how any space could be left for cargo,

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

yet the RX 350 manages a mighty 2,398 litres (84.7 cu ft) of it when its 40/20/40 split rear seat is folded flat. That's a bigger cargo bay than found in BMW's X5, Cadillac's SRX and Infiniti's FX, all of which are larger vehicles. The RX 350's baggage-hold is easily accessed through a large rear hatch. Unfortunately the vehicle's heavily raked rear glass and wide support pillars impede rearward visibility, which adds to the thrill of parallel parking before the ogling masses. Less the challenge of parking, the 2007 Lexus RX 350 is a very satisfying vehicle to drive. It's highly nimble for a mid-size 4WD SUV, and considering its size and performance capabilities, fuel-stingy as well. At 12.4 and 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres city and highway driving respectively (19 / 26 mpg), the RX 350's fuel-economy exceeds that of the BMW, Cadillac and Infiniti examples cited in the cargo-volume comparison.

So, in addition to consolidating SUV practicality with luxury car comfort, Lexus has also added favorable fuel-economy and impressive cargo space to the RX 350 distillation, making it a tremendously desirable - although pricey - choice for those wanting true 4WD capability in a civilized, ingratiating package.

Likes

• Refined, genteel performance
• Rapid acceleration
• Plenty of cargo space
• 4WD traction

Dislikes

• Compromised rearward visibility
• Short seat cushion
• Creaking rear-hatch and loose dome light
• Price