2016 Lexus RX Named to Ward’s 10 Best User Experiences List

Although we have reviewed the Lexus RX on many occasions and we love the premium crossover that started it all, the remote touch interface (mouse) has never been our favorite. Thus, we are pleased to report that others don’t share that view.

WardsAuto has just named the RX to its “Ward’s 10 Best User Experiences” list for 2016. The interesting thing about the award is that Lexus didn’t win in spite of the remote touch interface, but because the testers liked it. WardsAuto Senior Editor Tom Murphy, said the RX had many excellent features,“…including an ergonomic palm-rest and joystick that, once learned and adjusted for a driver’s preference, becomes second nature.”

WardsAuto also liked other aspects of the RX, specifically pointing to the “…trouble-free smartphone pairing, an outstanding color head-up display, detailed maps and multiple ways to access menus and information.”

User experience is key to a premium vehicle’s success in the marketplace. Unlike the mainstream segment, every premium vehicle has plenty of power, performance, and features. What differentiates one from the next is the little things, and how the vehicle works when used.

WardsAuto used the RX and the other vehicles under consideration in real-world testing on commutes. 29 new or significantly redesigned vehicles were evaluated and ten selected as the winners. The Lexus RX was the only vehicle in its class to be named a winner. Editor Tom Murphy summed up the Lexus overall by saying, “Lexus has a knack for designing quiet, comfortable vehicles, and we see the new RX as a calm connection to an otherwise busy world.”