The 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show will be the venue for the Australian debut of the new Lexus RX 350. Lexus  first revealed its RX 350 back in November ‘08 at the Los Angeles Motor Show.

Lexus claims benchmark improvements in innovation, safety, performance, comfort and efficiency. The proof of the pudding of course will be in the … er… driving, but Lexus is clearly working hard on the features, level of specification and dynamics across all of its model range.

The RX 350 features a 3.5-litre V6 engine which is good for 204kWs. A six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, replacing the old five-speed unit, is mated to the V6 and also provides sequential shift functionality.

In addition to the reversing camera (standard fitment of which was an Australian-first; something that Lexus can be proud of), a new side-view monitoring system uses a wide-angle camera located under the passenger side-mirror on selected models.

Lexus claims the new body styling improves comfort, manoeuvrability and fuel economy, which we assume is due to a reduced drag coefficient. Increased cargo space and easier loading through a power-operated rear tailgate are also on the features list.

In addition to the RX 350, Lexus will also showcase its much-vaunted supercar, the LF-A Roadster. Lexus notes that this will be its largest ever display at the Melbourne Motor Show, making  it one to watch out for. We’ll see you there.

GALLERY » 2009-lexus-rx-350