Following in the significant footsteps of the segment-leading RX 300, the RX 330 provides more of what made the award-winning RX successful and adds some new twists of its own. In addition to several innovative features and a comprehensive list of safety enhancements, the new RX boasts improvements throughout the vehicle.

"The new RX is everything our competitors hoped it wouldn't be. It's faster, better handling, roomier, quieter, more luxurious, and gets best-in-class fuel economy, all with a lower base price than the outgoing model," said Denny Clements, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "The combination will be hard to beat."

Available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations, the redesigned RX is 6.1 inches longer overall with a wheelbase almost four inches longer than its predecessor. This translates to a significant 6.1 cu. ft. increase of rear cargo space. Sliding split folding 40-20-40 rear seats and under-floor storage bins enhance cargo area utility.

A larger 3.3-liter V6 engine provides increases in horsepower and torque and is backed by a new 5-speed automatic transmission. The results are exemplary performance in class with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds and class-leading fuel economy of 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway (2WD models). The four-wheel drive model uses a sophisticated new traction control system that eliminates the need for viscous control of the center differential.

Improved suspension systems, standard 17-inch wheels and tires, and a new, stiffer body structure provide better steering and handling while maintaining a supple ride. An optional sport package that includes adjustable-height air suspension system with 18-inch wheels and tires further improves ride and handling, and provides automatic load leveling as well as aiding vehicle access. Larger front brakes help ensure short and easily controlled stops. And extensive efforts to reduce powertrain noise make the RX 330 nearly as quiet as the ES 300 luxury sedan.

Safety features on the all-new RX include a new driver's side knee airbag, multi-stage front airbags, side-curtain airbags and a large new side airbag for the front seats designed to protect the torso, abdomen and pelvis. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and brake assist are also standard, along with a new tire pressure monitoring system and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Several new features separate the RX 330 from its entry-luxury SUV competition. Examples include an Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which is included in the available sport package, that improves visibility in corners; a power rear liftgate operated by the key remote or a switch inside the vehicle; an adaptive cruise control system similar to that on the LS 430; a rear backup camera that displays a color image of the area behind the vehicle on the navigation system screen.

Smart design, extensive luxury amenities and unexpected utility grace the RX 330 interior. The new instrument panel features high contrast electroluminescent gauges and a redesigned center stack with metallic trim. A large-capacity sliding center console adds an unusual measure of utility to the front seat area. Standard genuine wood trim and optional leather surrounds the occupants. A dual-zone automatic climate control with dust filter is standard and is complemented by an available one-touch open/close power moonroof or a wide-opening multi-panel moonroof.

Rounding out the luxurious interior environment is a high performance premium audio system upgradeable to a Mark Levinson 11-speaker sound system with an in-dash CD changer. A DVD-based navigation system and a rear seat DVD entertainment system are also available.

With all of its improvements, the all-new RX 330 will continue to offer outstanding value with a base MSRP of $35,025 for the two-wheel drive model, a full $100 less than the 2003 model RX. The four-wheel drive version will carry an MSRP of $36,425, or $500 below current pricing. The delivery, processing and handling fee continues at $575 for both RX models.

The 2003 GS 300 SportDesign edition features new saddle-color seats (black is also available), gunmetal-colored aluminum wheels and an exclusive Graphite Gray Pearl exterior (Crystal White or Black Onyx are also available). HID headlamps with titanium-finished surrounds, SportDesign badges, a chrome grille, black pearl emblems and a rear lip spoiler enhance the exterior, while the interior is accentuated by brushed metallic console trim, a center console badge and SportDesign logos on the scuff plates and floor mats. In keeping with the sporty theme, a Euro-tuned sport suspension is standard.

The 2003 GS SportDesign will be available at Lexus dealers beginning the last week of March. Approximately 2,200 units will be produced and will carry a premium of $2,860 (which includes the leather package) above the current base model GS 300 price of $38,725.