2012 Lexus RX350 versus 2nd Generation RX
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Oct 2011
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From: CA
2012 Lexus RX350 versus 2nd Generation RX
Hi All -
I'm doing some test drives this week - the 2012 RX 350 AWD and also a CPO 2008 with about 25K miles (I am considering either a 2008 or 2009 CPO, low miles, waiting for one with a super clean maintenance record, no rattles, etc.)
I've owned two of the 1st generation RX's - the 1999 and 2002.
Now looking for my 3rd RX.
Would love to get some input on whether the new 2012's are such a huge improvement over the 2nd generation that it's worth the extra $$. I drove the 2010 RX as a loaner car last year and was a bit on the fence about the 3rd gen. The car felt bigger, more engine noise, the cabin materials didn't feel quite as posh. From some of the posts here it seems some issues have been resolved with the new 2012's (e.g. less engine noise). And 87 octane for the 2012's is a big plus, also.
Anyway, any 2nd generation owners who think a new 2012 would be the way to go, or vice versa, I would be so appreciative of the feedback before I test drive this week. I am looking for a car to keep for the next several years.
Many thanks, happy holidays.
I'm doing some test drives this week - the 2012 RX 350 AWD and also a CPO 2008 with about 25K miles (I am considering either a 2008 or 2009 CPO, low miles, waiting for one with a super clean maintenance record, no rattles, etc.)
I've owned two of the 1st generation RX's - the 1999 and 2002.
Now looking for my 3rd RX.
Would love to get some input on whether the new 2012's are such a huge improvement over the 2nd generation that it's worth the extra $$. I drove the 2010 RX as a loaner car last year and was a bit on the fence about the 3rd gen. The car felt bigger, more engine noise, the cabin materials didn't feel quite as posh. From some of the posts here it seems some issues have been resolved with the new 2012's (e.g. less engine noise). And 87 octane for the 2012's is a big plus, also.
Anyway, any 2nd generation owners who think a new 2012 would be the way to go, or vice versa, I would be so appreciative of the feedback before I test drive this week. I am looking for a car to keep for the next several years.
Many thanks, happy holidays.
CL Community Team
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 12,481
Likes: 198
From: San Francisco, CA
I thought it was worth it. I went from a 2004 RX330 with 112,000 miles to a 2011 RX450h. I feel the exterior and interior design is worth it enough. I also had a 1999 RX300 as well. With each successive generation, I feel that Lexus kept the strengths and worked on the weaknesses.
With the 2004, weaknesses include seat comfort, weak engine (330, not 350), technology, luxury feel. The 2010+ models have much better seat design, and overall the added weight of the new model makes the car feel sturdier and more luxurious. I dont know what options you are looking into, but I enjoy the new tech in the car such as ventilated seats, side camera, HUD, LED headlights, Pre Collision/adaptive cruise. Also simple things like handles in the trunk of fold down seats, remote touch, increased trunk space, safer crash protection
I know my thoughts are all over the place
Maybe you can look into a CPO 2010 or 2011 model if you dont want to shell out the cash
With the 2004, weaknesses include seat comfort, weak engine (330, not 350), technology, luxury feel. The 2010+ models have much better seat design, and overall the added weight of the new model makes the car feel sturdier and more luxurious. I dont know what options you are looking into, but I enjoy the new tech in the car such as ventilated seats, side camera, HUD, LED headlights, Pre Collision/adaptive cruise. Also simple things like handles in the trunk of fold down seats, remote touch, increased trunk space, safer crash protection
I know my thoughts are all over the place
Maybe you can look into a CPO 2010 or 2011 model if you dont want to shell out the cash
My mom has a second gen 2008 RX350 and I drive plenty of both 2RX and 3 RX at the automall I work at. Overall I like the 2010 RX350 more in terms of design and power (feels more linear), and handles better (feels more planted) though I feel the 2RX is more light on its feet. But materials used and panel gaps in the 2010 are not up to what the 2RX set as a benchmark (not to mention the 2RX has a full size spare tire). I'm more of a form over function guy though so the design of the 2010 sways me more to third gen. What's the better car kind of depends on your preferences. I'd say drive both again and see which you like more.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 29
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From: MN
I have a 2010 RX and did have a 2d generation previously.
Yes, the 2010 is a little noisier than the 2d. However, it's not a big deal to me.
The car is also bigger.
In my mind, there is no comparison to the older models. The new ride is completely refined and the vehicle handles much better.
Yes, the 2010 is a little noisier than the 2d. However, it's not a big deal to me.
The car is also bigger.
In my mind, there is no comparison to the older models. The new ride is completely refined and the vehicle handles much better.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 5,723
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From: NJ
My brother has the 3rd gen (hybrid), and I have the 1st gen. There are many improvements Lexus has made. To be frank, I prefer my 1st gen. The 3rd gen has it's perks, don't get me wrong but I prefer something with fewer electronics. The styling of the 3rd gen look's great. These RX's age very well, I still think 1st gen look's pretty good, compared to other vehicles on the market. The 3rd gen feel's much bigger than my 1st gen, not sure if it actually is, but it sure does feel like it. I do enjoy the power of the 3rd gen though, I never found the RX300 to not have sufficient power but let's face it who doesn't want more power! LOL The power output is more linear than in my 1st gen, the power comes on strong throughout all rpms. The ride is more stiff than my RX, but it's so stiff that you feel every bump either. If there's such a thing as the right amount of "stiffness" than the 3rd gen RX has it. All though it depends on the wheel size too.
BTW: Yes, I realize you wanted a comparison between a 3rd gen and 2 gen. But, I haven't spent much time in a 2nd gen. The most I spend is up to 5 mins, doing a test drive after the customer has a repair done at my uncle's shop.
BTW: Yes, I realize you wanted a comparison between a 3rd gen and 2 gen. But, I haven't spent much time in a 2nd gen. The most I spend is up to 5 mins, doing a test drive after the customer has a repair done at my uncle's shop.
Last edited by hypervish; Nov 28, 2011 at 05:26 PM.
CL Community Team
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 12,481
Likes: 198
From: San Francisco, CA
hyper, from the 1st gen to 2nd gen, the RX grew more than 7 inches in length. And then there is an additional inch it grew from 2nd gen to 3rd gen so no, it is not your imagination that the 3rd gen is a lot bigger than your 1st gen
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Lead Lap
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From: NY/NJ
Having a 1gen RX and having driven only the 2nd and 3rd Gen as loaners (they say the quickest and best handling vehicles are rentals) if I got a RX to replace my RX, it would be the 2nd Gen. Besides the top of the line goodies, nothing is that superior in 3rd Gen to justify going for it. if it had a 3rd row option, hen different story. I like the symetrical dash, rather than the forced design 3rd Gen dash.
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Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 781
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From: PA
The second gen was my choice of loaner when my ES was in for servicing. That is until the 3rd gen came out.
For me - I bought new b/c of what I pointed out above. A non-CPO was only $5K less and the one I got came with even more options than I originally was wanting and I am not even tempted to look back.
Pros on 2nd gen - for a CPO... PRICE. And if you are looking at one with that low miles I would imagine "rattles" shouldn't be an issue. Hell, my 2007 75k mile ES didn't have any ratlles. Fit and finish is comparable with both. More wood on the 2nd gen and it looks a bit cushier.
Cons on 2nd gen - Rides like a truck. IMO it's not as sure footed as the 3rd gen. Rounding corners on an onramp to an interstate is night and day when riding in both. The 2nd gen bounces a bit too much for my taste. Then again, it's a subjective thing so you need to drive both. Cargo is a bit reduced in the 2nd gen as well due to the suspension set-up.
Pros for 3rd gen - Rides like a sedan due to new suspension design providing much more secure footing for driving. Again, subjective so drive them both. Roomier interior. My wife and I rode both on numerous occassions and the interoir is easily roomier than the 2nd gen. Cargo capacity is larger and more friendly due to new suspension. Gadgets! Depending on you flavor and desire for them. Bluetooth is better if you use it.
Cons for 3rd gen - PRICE. Then again the used car market is slim pickings and I found a 2010 NON-CPO that was only $5K less than a comparable NEW model with the same bells and whistles. So weigh your options carefully. Less wood and less of a "cushy feel". I don't know how to describe it really. It's like the LS 430's tufted leather feel vs. the LS 460's taught leather feel. It's still nice, just not as "La-Z-Boy" as the 2nd gen.
Again, all of this is subjective. Buy new, get new. No dents, dings, scratches, paint chips (repaired or not), wheel rash, creased leather, scraped footwells, worn steering wheel leather, etc. Buy CPO, get a sweet warranty, all the Lexus treatement, and spend less money.Cons on 2nd gen - Rides like a truck. IMO it's not as sure footed as the 3rd gen. Rounding corners on an onramp to an interstate is night and day when riding in both. The 2nd gen bounces a bit too much for my taste. Then again, it's a subjective thing so you need to drive both. Cargo is a bit reduced in the 2nd gen as well due to the suspension set-up.
Pros for 3rd gen - Rides like a sedan due to new suspension design providing much more secure footing for driving. Again, subjective so drive them both. Roomier interior. My wife and I rode both on numerous occassions and the interoir is easily roomier than the 2nd gen. Cargo capacity is larger and more friendly due to new suspension. Gadgets! Depending on you flavor and desire for them. Bluetooth is better if you use it.
Cons for 3rd gen - PRICE. Then again the used car market is slim pickings and I found a 2010 NON-CPO that was only $5K less than a comparable NEW model with the same bells and whistles. So weigh your options carefully. Less wood and less of a "cushy feel". I don't know how to describe it really. It's like the LS 430's tufted leather feel vs. the LS 460's taught leather feel. It's still nice, just not as "La-Z-Boy" as the 2nd gen.
For me - I bought new b/c of what I pointed out above. A non-CPO was only $5K less and the one I got came with even more options than I originally was wanting and I am not even tempted to look back.
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 14
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From: CA
Many thanks to everyone for their feedback!
I test drove both the 2012 and the 2008 CPO yesterday and am buying the 2008. It's in mint condition, only 25K miles, AWD, new Michelin tires, navigation/rear camera, very nicely equipped and like new inside & out. Not a scratch or ding and no rattles.
I liked the 2012 a lot, but not $13,000 more, which was the cost difference between going for the CPO 2008 versus this year's model.
The 2012 definitely felt quieter than I remembered the 2010 being, and had a nice heavy, weighted feel to it, so Lexus has clearly already done some improvements on the 3rd gen.
I also liked that the 2008 was a tad smaller, which makes it that much easier to park & maneuver, especially in the city.
Thank you again, all, for your great feedback. I really appreciate it and it definitely helped!
I test drove both the 2012 and the 2008 CPO yesterday and am buying the 2008. It's in mint condition, only 25K miles, AWD, new Michelin tires, navigation/rear camera, very nicely equipped and like new inside & out. Not a scratch or ding and no rattles.
I liked the 2012 a lot, but not $13,000 more, which was the cost difference between going for the CPO 2008 versus this year's model.
The 2012 definitely felt quieter than I remembered the 2010 being, and had a nice heavy, weighted feel to it, so Lexus has clearly already done some improvements on the 3rd gen.
I also liked that the 2008 was a tad smaller, which makes it that much easier to park & maneuver, especially in the city.
Thank you again, all, for your great feedback. I really appreciate it and it definitely helped!
Rookie
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 77
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From: MD
Just an FYI - I just traded in my 2008 400h for a 2012 450h. It is larger inside, much quieter, rides smoother and has some nice new features. I had a 2012 RX (not a hybrid) while my 400h was in for service and was impressed enough to look at my options. My new 450h ended up at the same payment with no money down on a trade for my 2008. I am very happy with the results!
Last edited by ghabicht; Dec 26, 2011 at 05:45 PM.
Driver
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 174
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From: Ca
Sounds like you made up mind already.. both are great cars.. at the end youre the one paying.. so not right or wrong.
We were in the same boat, debating between 2nd gen and 3rd, we owned a 1st gen.. anyhow the differences are substantial! Hard to put a price on it but I say it's worth $13k. Might be less with the .9% if you're financing. The 3rd gen is a total new design.. so much changed.. aesthetics, motor, transmission, interior layout.. Only complaint maybe the weight but it sure handles it well.
Point I didn't agree withis the 2rd gen is quieter? our 2012 is almost too quiet! Perhaps the 2010 were different?
Either way, enjoy it!
We were in the same boat, debating between 2nd gen and 3rd, we owned a 1st gen.. anyhow the differences are substantial! Hard to put a price on it but I say it's worth $13k. Might be less with the .9% if you're financing. The 3rd gen is a total new design.. so much changed.. aesthetics, motor, transmission, interior layout.. Only complaint maybe the weight but it sure handles it well.
Point I didn't agree withis the 2rd gen is quieter? our 2012 is almost too quiet! Perhaps the 2010 were different?
Either way, enjoy it!
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 781
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From: PA
$13K is $13K not matter who you are so I believe you made the right decision for you.
SF - 2010 and 2011's have always been the subject of too much engine noise. Having driven 2010's on a few occassions and comparing the noise in my 2012 I can say "yes" Lexus did SOMETHING. My guess is better sound insulation on the firewall and transmission tunnel as well as above the resonator and muffler but who knows. 2009 and priors were quieter than 10's and 11's but the 12's are now just as quiet as the 09's and older, IMO.
SF - 2010 and 2011's have always been the subject of too much engine noise. Having driven 2010's on a few occassions and comparing the noise in my 2012 I can say "yes" Lexus did SOMETHING. My guess is better sound insulation on the firewall and transmission tunnel as well as above the resonator and muffler but who knows. 2009 and priors were quieter than 10's and 11's but the 12's are now just as quiet as the 09's and older, IMO.
Driver
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 174
Likes: 3
From: Ca
$13K is $13K not matter who you are so I believe you made the right decision for you.
SF - 2010 and 2011's have always been the subject of too much engine noise. Having driven 2010's on a few occassions and comparing the noise in my 2012 I can say "yes" Lexus did SOMETHING. My guess is better sound insulation on the firewall and transmission tunnel as well as above the resonator and muffler but who knows. 2009 and priors were quieter than 10's and 11's but the 12's are now just as quiet as the 09's and older, IMO.
SF - 2010 and 2011's have always been the subject of too much engine noise. Having driven 2010's on a few occassions and comparing the noise in my 2012 I can say "yes" Lexus did SOMETHING. My guess is better sound insulation on the firewall and transmission tunnel as well as above the resonator and muffler but who knows. 2009 and priors were quieter than 10's and 11's but the 12's are now just as quiet as the 09's and older, IMO.
Lead Lap
Joined: Jun 2008
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From: PA