Exclusive Spy Video and Photos: 2010 Lexus RX 350

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/GeneralFuture/articleId=129127

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"You expect to see sports cars, sport sedans and even the occasional economy car on the Nürburgring, but now we're to the point where even luxury crossovers are being tuned on the twisty test circuit in Germany. The 2010 Lexus RX 350 recently hit the 'Ring, and thanks to a lack of camouflage the prototype gave us a good look at what's in store for the upcoming midsize crossover.

If you're hoping for big changes you'll be disappointed, as the next RX looks much like the current model in terms of its overall size and shape. There's a slightly revised grille up front that's more angular in appearance along with a reconfigured headlight cluster.

In back, a new set of LED taillights is the most noticeable difference. There are a few minor changes to the shape of the rear fascia, but unless you put the 2010 model side by side with the current RX you would find it hard to see the difference between the two.

The profile of this new RX is slightly more aggressive than before with a slightly lower roofline. A new design for the rear side windows eliminates one of the smaller quarter windows to give the overall shape a cleaner look.

There won't be big changes under the hood, either. A revised version of the current 3.5-liter V6 will provide the power with a six-speed automatic handling the gearchanges. A hybrid model will be available as well, most likely with the same powertrain as the current GS 450h.

Although there have been rumors of an extended-length RX with three rows of seating, we have yet to see any prototypes that confirm the predictions. We expect that role will be filled by an all-new Lexus crossover built on the rear-wheel-drive platform that underpins the GS sedan. It will most likely replace the current GX 470 as Lexus looks to move away from body-on-frame platforms in favor of lighter, more space-efficient, car-based unibody crossovers.

Look for the official debut of the 2010 RX 350 later this year with sales beginning in early 2009. "