We're driving 2012 RX loaner car while the dealer fixes the A/C on our 2006 RX330. While we are impressed at the fit, finish and ride, we're disappointed that this is WAAAY bigger than the 2nd gen RX. Wife is petite so gen 3 is a deal breaker. We're not quite ready for a new car yet, but at this point we would not be looking at the RX.

 

Haha in reality it's jet one inch longer an wider but it's the way they positioned the seats and center console-how everything is now lifted up and the cabin has more of a cacoon feeling. The better half also feels the same way as you so you are not alone

 

The BMW X3 and the Audi Q5 are the alternatives.

 

Yeah, but man I hate to go back to German aggravation. What about Infiniti? Do they make a small luxury SUV that's about the size (or maybe even smaller) than the RX330?

 

Daryll,

The size difference of the 3rd generation is more of an illusion IMO, but if it's off-putting, try out the new Acura RDX. I took a test drive and was impressed. Ride is OK, handles MUCH better, 0-60 is quicker, audio/NAV system is superior, better mpg...

However, the interior is more utilitarian and people complain it looks like some of the less expensive Hondas. One guy didn't like the seats.

What disappointed me most is, and you may think it silly, but NO LED RUNNING LIGHTS! Come on, Acura, Kia put them in their Sportage two years ago. They also hid the exhaust tips. Rather odd.

There's also the Murano LE. That interior really equals the RX.

I say at least give them a shot. I still overall prefer the RX, but the RDX & Murano are viable alternatives.

 

I forgot about Murano. We almost bought one before I bought our current RX. Good suggestion! The Acura RDX has a turbo 4 cylinder that only gets 17 MPG on premium gas. And like you say, doesn't quite rise to luxury level. So we'll pass on that.

 

The NEW RDX is V6 only with comparable HP/TQ with the RX but it has better MPG (on paper).

My wife is small also, like 5'2" and she is fine with her 350 now. She was reluctant to move into the RX350 from her IS250 but with the high seating, good visibility, and the back up camera everything seems to be fine for her.

Your wife needs to get used to the NEW RX350/450h

 

You might want to hang on to your car until Lexus brings out the rumored smaller SUV. It is supposed to be a RAV4 sized hybrid.

 

Check out the Infinity EX if you really want something smaller. I drive the EX while the wife drives the Lexus RX. We specifically choose the RX because of it's extra room. The EX has much less backseat room and storage space then the RX which is why we use the RX for trips and driving other people around. I mainly use the EX for my long commute. I will say the EX is much more fun to drive. Handles more like a sports car then an SUV. Probably because it's lighter weight and rear wheel drive. Also cost me 10k less then the RX. I'm very happy with both cars.

 

We test drove the Infiniti EX35 over the weekend. That car is tiny and much lower to the ground than the RX350. It's fun to drive if you like sporty suspension and handling.

 

That is the 2007-2012 model RDX. The 2013's were just released recently and they are a big step up in all aspects. The 2013 offers a 273 hp V6 that estimates 20 mpg city and 29 mpg hwy which is a little better than the RX's 18/25. It is also smaller than the RX which would probably be a good fit for your wife. I test drove one recently and I was impressed.

Sorry Im an Acura fan too

 

Daryll, As RXSF pointed out, it's mostly an illusion. My wife is 5' and feels fine in ours and my daughter is 4'10" and feels very comfortable in hers. I realize that each person is different and what matters is how it feels to you. However, you might find a comparison of the stats is interesting.

I've compared the '06 RX, the '12RX, the '13 Acura RDX and the Infinity FX35. I'm going to try to keep them straight--I don't know how to post a chart.

Length 186.2/ 187.8/ 183.5/ 191
Width 72.6 /74.2 /73.7 /75.9
Height 66.1/ 66.3/ 66.1/ 66.1
Front leg 42.5/ 43.1/ 42/ 44.7
Front head 39.4/ 39.1/ 38.7/ 39.3
Front shoulder 57.9/ 58/ 58.7/ 57.3

cargo (seats up) 38.3/ 40/ 26/ ??

As you can see, physically, the '12 is no more than 1.6" bigger than the '06. It obviously doesn't matter to me what car you choose, but I just thought that before you 'jump ship', you might want to re-assess. Happy hunting.

 

Those numbers, side by side, are VERY helpful. I'll show this to the wife. I think, however, that the FEEL is much bigger, so the numbers might not matter.

 

Daryll, the 3rd gen feels like it's bigger inside with the new dash layout. Took maybe a week to start feeling comfortable. Adjusting the seats helped tremendously. On the outside, the doors lack side molding, also giving the illusion it's bigger. They can be added for minimal cost. My 330 fit me like a glove but I'm very happy with my 450h.

 

Thanks Anita. I'll show your post to the wife unit!