The 2010 Lexus RX and the 2009 Toyota Venza SUVs have both earned the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety’s 2009 Top Safety Pick award. To qualify for Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute’s front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control, which is standard on the Toyota Venza and Lexus RX.

“Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple test results,” says Institute president Adrian Lund.

The 2009 Toyota Venza and the 2010 Lexus RX both received a rating of ‘Good’ in frontal offset, side impact and rear strength tests.

Click through for the high-res image galleries.

2009 Toyota Venza:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

We saw the 2010 Lexus RX 450h at the 2008 LA Auto Show in November but at the time Lexus had not released any fuel-economy figures. Well, as we near the dealership arrival of the 2010 RX, Lexus has released more info on its new hybrid SUV.

The 2010 RX 450h features an updated version of the Lexus Hybrid Drive mated to a 3.5L V6 engine that produces a total of 295-hp – 27-hp more than the current generation RX400h. While delivering the performance similar to V8 engine the RX 450h provides better combined fuel-economy than the average 4-cylinder mid-sized sedans.

Okay we’ll stop beating around the bush. Official EPA ratings for the 2010 Lexus RX 450h comes in at 28 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (26 mpg for the AWD version). That’s 8 to 12 percent better than the current RX400h. For those of you that like to know fuel-economy in combined figures – that’s 27 mpg for the AWD RX 450h and 28 mpg for the FWD.

We’ve also gone ahead and updated the 2010 Lexus RX 450h high-res image gallery. Check it out after the jump.

2010 Lexus RX 450h:

• “¢  Lexus’ top-selling series gets a makeover; look harder.
• “¢  2010 RX 350: 275-hp 3.5L V6; 6-speed automatic.
• “¢  2010 RX 450h: 295-hp 3.5L V6; ECVT Transmission.
• “¢  RX 350 will arrive in Feb.; RX 450h arrives in spring 2009.

We’re glad that the 2010 Lexus RX received a makeover even though you may have to look hard to notice the changes. Nonethless, we’re certainly happy that Lexus stopped before they ended up making a Lexus Venza.

Both 2010 RX models get an upgrade under the hood with the 2010 RX 350 producing an extra 5-hp over its predecessor and the RX 450h producing a whopping 27-hp more. The 2010 RX 350 is now mated with a 6-speed automatic with sequential shift replacing the 5-speed automatic. The RX 450h keeps its Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT).

Both models will be available with front-wheel-drive as standard and all-wheel-drive for some extra green.

Follow the jump for the high-res image gallery.

2010 Lexus RX 450h – Live from 2008 LA Auto Show:

2010 Lexus RX 350 – Live from 2008 LA Auto Show:

2010 Lexus RX450h:

2010 Lexus RX 350:

Press Release:

November 19, 2008 – Los Angeles, CA – Lexus unveiled the all-new, next generation RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid at a press conference today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicle that pioneered the car-based luxury utility vehicle segment when it launched in 1998, is completely redesigned and will continue to set new benchmarks in areas that have made it the best-selling luxury utility vehicle: innovation, styling, performance, utility and comfort.

At the heart of the new RX models are two improved powertrains. Entering its second generation, the RX 450h will feature an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new, more efficient inverter, the total system output will be 295 horsepower, 27 more horsepower than the current generation RX hybrid.

Another step in the Lexus Hybrid Drive’s evolution is the addition of two new systems that improve its efficiency. The first is an exhaust-heat recovery system that reduces engine warm-up time allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. The result is an improvement in both fuel economy and emissions. The second is a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system that reduces engine pumping losses, which also helps to improve economy.

The RX 450h features a front-wheel hybrid drive or an electronically driven, part-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid drive system, which supplies the rear wheels with the optimal amount of torque as conditions demand. Unlike mechanical AWD systems that reduce fuel efficiency via added weight and friction, the RX 450h’s rear-mounted electric motor-generator allows all four wheels to perform regenerative braking, charging the hybrid battery more effectively.

The third generation RX 350 will be powered by an improved 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to an electrically controlled, sequential-shift six-speed transaxle. The all-wheel-drive version will feature an Active Torque Control AWD system that optimizes torque depending on driving conditions, resulting in improved efficiency and performance.

Both RX models feature a new, uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension that helps provide exceptional agility and control. Its distinctive design also allows for five percent more cargo volume and easier loading. To complement the new rear suspension and provide excellent dexterity and ride comfort, the front McPherson strut geometry was optimized.

The all-new RX models possess a number of Lexus-first technologies that enhance the ownership experience. An available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system has an all-new “Remote Touch” controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic. Positioned on the center console, Remote Touch is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback. While RX will feature voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM® satellite-radio capability (requires subscription) is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.

The spacious five-passenger interior includes a new, thoughtfully constructed “dual-zone cockpit” design. This intuitive layout helps the driver navigate the advanced interior of the new RX, which features two distinct yet integrated zones: a “display zone” and an “operation zone.”

The “display zone” assists the driver via an eight-inch, navigation display that is set back in the dash for improved visibility. A white Organic LED multi-informational display ensures exceptional readability from a wide angle. An optional Heads-up Display reduces the need for excessive eye movement, and the use of high-intensity LEDs make the display bright enough to be read in direct sunlight.
The “operation zone” provides access and control to a large range of information through the available “Remote Touch” navigation controller and the steering-wheel-mounted multi-information switch.

The exterior of the all-new RX has a strong stance and powerful new body design with the goal of enhancing comfort and maneuverability. The inverted-trapezoid design in the front and the horizontally integrated rear are incorporated together via a pronounced shoulder along the RX’s profile. Stylish molding around the side windows and at the base of the doors provides low-profile strength. Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels complement the exterior with a strong, sporty look, with optional 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels providing another styling cue. While it has increased in nearly every dimension, overall aerodynamic advancement was aided by a specially designed undertray, resulting in a segment-topping 0.32 coefficient of drag (Cd).

The RX 450h hybrid will have its own unique styling features, including an exclusive grille, hybrid badging including blue-trimmed Lexus logos, unique front bumper, a special 19-inch optional wheel design, blue-tinted headlamps and taillamps, and optional LED headlamps.

The new RX is available with a selection of luxury and sport option packages, which include features like Lexus’ exclusive Mark Levinson® Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, dynamic radar cruise control, and a Sports Package featuring a sport-tuned suspension.

The all-new RX will offer a wide-angle side view monitor. With a camera located under the passenger side-view mirror, the driver can check hard-to-view areas on the passenger side of the vehicle by simply selecting a button on the navigation screen or the steering wheel and view the camera image on the navigation screen.

True to its heritage, the RX’s active and passive safety systems continue to be among the vehicle’s most impressive features. Lexus’ available Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) seamlessly integrates individual systems like Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Traction Control (TRAC). It operates in a smooth proactive way via throttle, steering and braking to help prevent skids while cornering before the vehicle reaches its operating limits on slippery roads or other challenging conditions.

The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) relies on millimeter-wave radar technology to recognize a possible frontal collision and primes the brake assist and retracts the driver’s and front passenger’s seat-belt in anticipation of the crash. An intelligent Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) is available with HID low- and high-beam headlamps on both models, while the RX 450h also offers the AFS with LED low-beam and Halogen high-beam headlamps. Both anticipate the vehicle’s location based on vehicle speed and steering angle, swiveling the front headlamps into the turn. An optional new automatic high-beam system detects light from oncoming vehicles, preceding vehicles or ambient sources and automatically switches from high to low beams.

Passive safety features include a class-leading 10 standard airbags on the new RX, including dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags (including the Lexus exclusive twin-chamber front-passenger airbag), driver and front-passenger knee airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, and side-curtain airbags. It is also equipped with Lexus’ front-seat active headrests, designed to help reduce a possible whiplash injury when in certain lower speed collisions from the rear.

The all-new 2010 RX 350 will go on sale next February, while the 2010 RX 450h will reach dealerships nationwide in the spring.

Lexus announced today that it will hold the world debut of the 2010 Lexus RX 350 and 2010 Lexus RX 450h SUVs at the 2008 LA Auto Show. The Japanese luxury brand said that the “next generation RX models will raise the bar above the current best-selling products by offering outstanding luxury, comfort, technology, safety and efficiency.”

As announced earlier this morning the 2010 Lexus IS 250C will make its stateside debut in LA. Lexus has now confirmed that the IS 350C will also make its world debut joining the IS convertible lineup. The 2010 Lexus IS 350C will be powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 306-hp. Both IS convertible models will be mated to a 6-speed automatic. The IS 250C will be available with a 6-speed manual.

The 2009 Lexus LS460 and LS 460 AWD will also be at the Lexus display. Join us for live coverage of the 2008 LA Auto Show starting Nov. 19th.

Follow the jump for the high-resolution image gallery.

2010 Lexus IS 250C:

The 2010 Lexus RX won’t make its official debut until the LA Auto Show in a couple of days but we have our first look at the SUV with images from a leaked Japanese brochure. The images, of the 2010 RX350 and the RX450h models, show that Lexus’ LF-Xh Hybrid Concept had a major influence on the design of the new SUV.

The vehicle denotation for the RX350 mean we’ll see the 3.5L V6 from the current model. However, the hybrid RX carries a new RX 450h badge meaning we’ll see an upgrade from the current RX 400h. A V8 is also expected to join the lineup later down the road.

Join us on Nov. 19th when we bring you live coverage from the 2008 LA Auto Show.

2010 Lexus RX Leaked Brochure Images:

Source: AutoSpies

We saw spy shots of the 2010 Lexus RX in early July and Toyota executives have now confirmed that the SUV will make its official debut at the 2008 LA Auto Show in November.

Design of the 2010 Lexus RX is expected to be heavily influenced by the Lexus LF-Xh hybrid (shown in the gallery below). Besides keeping its 3.5L V6 rumor has it that a new V8 is in the works to take on the BMW X6. No word if the Lexus LF-Xh and its V6 gasoline mated to a high-out hybrid system are to play a part in the next Lexus RX hybrid.

Lexus will release all the technical details in LA next month so make sure you join us starting Nov. 19th for full live coverage.

Click through for more high-res shots of the Lexus LF-Xh Hybrid in matte-black.

Live from Paris 2008: Lexus LF-Xh Hybrid in matte-black:

Source: TCC