2009 RX400h ??? What's next?
 

I am sure that anyone who knows isn't talking but does anyone have any speculation on the future of the Rx400h after this year? Minimal change, completely redesigned vehicle, upgraded battery system, etc..

It is my understanding in talking to my dealer and in reading the latest postings that the new RX (350 and 400h) will come out in the Spring of 2009 and will be labelled a 2010 model. Earlier there was speculation that the model change would occur a year earlier.

More than that I don't know. But speculation is always fun. I'd love to see:
1. memory on passenger seat
2. more engine power
3. a bigger nav -- the size of the LS nav with the XM traffic and HDD
4. an improved body style (I like the current one but it's getting a bit dated)
5. better sound system design (current ML is no improvement)
6. a/c in the seats
7. I hope that they DON'T add a 3rd row of seats but I bet they do
8. REAL ipod integration (more than just the addition of an ipod connector)
9. Wood on the sides by the nav rather than the brushed aluminum look
10. keyless entry (you can bet on this happening)
11. parking radar sensors
12. side mirrors with lighted turn signals built-in

I'm guessing that we'll actually get 1, 2, (maybe 3), 4, 6, 3rd row seat option, ipod dumb connect only, 10, 11, 12

What do others think/speculate/wish

Hmm.. here are mine:

- SmartAcccess + push button start
- 3.5 litre HSD (distinguish it from the 3.3 litre HSD on the HiHy)
- PCS + Dynamic Radar CC
- Panoramic moonroof (like the X3, rather than the old RX330)
- Standard 18" alloys, opt. 19" or 20"
- Silver-accented roof rails
- puddle lamps
- illuminated exterior door handles
- real metal trim (it's plastic now, right?)
- passenger memory

I think the 400h currently has more than enough power. Id like to see better fuel economy now.

Depends how much extra weight they add. The new Highlander uses the 2GR engine which is already on the RX.

Yes the 3.5 litre HSD makes 339hp on the GSh, but it can be detuned I'm sure (else that'll be one hell of an RX!)

I agree in that the direct injected version of the 3.5L would be a good upgrade. I have no problem with adding power, without sacraficing fuel economy and direct injection does just that. Damn good technology if you ask me. Too bad more automakers havent incorperated it yet.

b/c of the diesel-like clatter maybe?

http://community.myride.com/kickapps...=11282&as=3898

http://thepassionatepursuit.com/2007...2009-lexus-rx/

There is a hybrid with better economy it is a Prius. It is pretty hard to get both it is a matter of either or. If you want enough power to push all the weight and wind resistance and get good acceleration you won't get the economy of a Prius. I think the car is amazing, it has almost the same room and pick up as my 2003 Jeep Grans Cherokee and it get double the MPG.. I am not saying it can't be done but there are limits and choices If you want MPG then you have to give up a little zoom zoom

I think the car is almost perfect. All I want is a NAV and radio display that works when the car is moving. An ICE that can bet turned off if I just want to move the car a few feet out of the garage, and a way to turn off the DRL without messing around with wires under the hood