The Lexus RX was one of the first sedan-based, luxury utility vehicles, and it remains one the best. This so-called crossover is impressively smooth, comfortable, responsive in all driving situations and flexible when it comes to hauling people or cargo. It's finished with style and built like the proverbial Swiss watch, and it can be equipped with almost as many high-zoot features as the flagship Lexus LS 460 sedan.

The standard V6 model scoots more quickly than some V8-powered sport-utility vehicles, with reasonable operating costs. The hybrid RX400h is a technical marvel that can run strictly on electric power (yet does not need to be plugged in), and it improves overall fuel economy as much as 30 percent.

The package only gets better for 2007, starting with the renamed RX 350. Its more powerful 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 improves both performance and fuel efficiency compared to the 223-hp 2006 RX 330. The RX 400h, meanwhile, is available for the first time with front-wheel drive, reducing the price for those who aren't interested in all-wheel drive and increasing fuel economy slightly. To help keep the hybrid model's price in check, it comes with the same standard equipment as the RX 350. Some features previously included on the base RX 400h are optional on the 2007 model.