SALT LAKE CITY — Most have heard the term "wolf in sheep’s clothing" used to describe automobiles. The 2016 Lexus RX 350 crossover may represent the opposite of that phrase.

The exterior styling is aggressive; the bold new grill shared by all new Lexus models is prominent. Sharp angles and lines, the long low-hood and F Sport trim-level all scream power and performance. It isn’t that the RX isn’t pleasant to drive — it’s just that getting from point A to point B doesn’t come as quickly, nor feel as powerful, as one would expect.

The new RX is attractive. Its fit and finish is nearly flawless and the interior is refined and comfortable. At the same time, the aluminum brake and gas pedal and the head-up display are in contrast to driving dynamics that don’t feel particularly exciting. Then you glance at the speedometer and are surprised to see you are going faster than expected.

The 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 isn’t lacking for power at 295 horsepower, after all. If the RX was made by Audi or BMW, it would be turbo charged, the ride and steering would be stiffer, and the sensation of power would be more pronounced.

Lexus has opted to create a crossover, instead, that is refinement-defined. This vehicle has been executed beautifully, but surprises in the sense that what happens behind the wheel doesn’t quite match the aggressive message received walking up to it.

Overall grade: A-

Exterior styling

Any discussion of exterior styling involving a Lexus begins with the new grills that have been somewhat controversial in their size and prominence. The hourglass-shaped grill with heavy honeycomb pattern and prominent Lexus logo is impossible to overlook.

That’s the point, as Lexus has used that grill across all models to better brand its vehicles and create a more aggressive and sporty look. Joseph Belmonte, general manager at Larry H. Miller Lexus of Lindon, stated the new grills haven’t been especially popular with longtime Lexus customers.

The new grill hasn’t hurt repeat business, however, and Lexus’ attempt to gain brand recognition has been successful. I received favorable comments from people who passed by more than once during my time with the RX.

The front-end and rear-end of the RX 350 are dominated by chrome trim. The hood is low, long and contains several changes in elevation. The grill, wrapped in chrome, pushes rearward as it makes its way down the front fascia. The car appears in motion while standing still.

Both an upper and lower ledge flow rearward along the doors toward bold rear fenders. The rear brake-light housings begin their journey around back just above and behind those fenders.

Another strip of chrome trim joins the brake lights around back. A rear spoiler extends from the roofline, over tinted rear glass.

Chrome trims the lower bumper between dual exhaust outlets and chrome rings each wide outlet. The rear hatchback lid features a sculpted center section that mirrors the shape of the grill up front.

The F Sport model rides on 20-inch wheels that fit the wide wheel wells nicely. The wolf is what one sees when approaching this vehicle.

Interior styling

The exterior of the RX 350 is attractive and aggressive. The interior is the definition of refinement and luxury.

Two features stand out right away. The first is the drilled aluminum brake pedal, gas pedal and footrest. This is something usually found in sports cars to reduce weight and create the sensation of performance.

The second is a small thing found in all Lexus models: the analog clock in the center of the dash. That small touch is an elegant one that lends itself perfectly to the classy interior of the RX.

Combined with a multitude of technological features, the interior addresses every comfort and concern the driver or passengers may have. Leather is not only where one would expect — the seats and door panels — but absolutely surrounds occupants on the dash and center console as well.

Chrome and brushed-metal trim accent the dash, door panels and center console beautifully. The metal trim is authentic and feels and looks elegant and sporty. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and has an elegant feel rather than sporty. Steering wheel controls are well laid out and easy to reach.

The massive screen that relays audio, navigation and vehicle settings is front and center on top of the dash and angles, along with the audio and climate controls below, toward the driver. Those controls are well laid out and easy to reach from the driver’s seat.

The first clue that a sheep may lie under wolf’s clothing is the instrument panel. It is simplistic and easy to read, but oddly laid out in relation to the rest of the vehicle. It doesn’t fit either the sporty looks or the elegant feel of the RX 350.

A large, round tachometer is in the center with a digital speedometer contained within. A smaller round dial to the right contains both temperature and fuel gauges.

To the left of the tachometer, much of the instrument cluster is taken up with animated and digital vehicle information settings. The instrument cluster simply seems out of place for this vehicle and seems more at home in a small sedan or electric vehicle.

Ultimately, this interior is inviting and comfortable. I wished a long road trip were possible in the RX.

Technology

The RX 350 is very well appointed and everything can be controlled with a rectangular joystick on the center console that takes some getting used to. Unlike BMW’s iDrive round controller, this one can be manipulated in all directions — including diagonally across the screen above.

While it makes it possible to get to more functions in fewer steps it is tricky to get just the right feel. While four days wasn’t quite enough time to get very proficient with the controller it is a novel idea.

The navigation screen is massive and easy to read. The layout of the navigation screen can be adjusted for the view and direction of travel. The default layout preferred to show north rather than the direction of travel at the top of the screen. It was disconcerting compared to most systems to see the direction of travel appear in any direction on the screen. It was simple, however, to change the layout to something more familiar to me.

The voice controls worked very well and the technology throughout the vehicle is very easy to access from the driver’s seat. The Mark Levinson premium sound system is excellent and includes a CD player.

Safety and vehicle-control technology of most every kind is included and, for the most part, enhances the driving experience. The driver is greeted first and foremost by a seat and steering wheel that retreat to ease entry and exit. This proved a good thing as the dash is deep and at exactly the correct spot to meet my knee when getting in and out of the vehicle.

I learned to wait for the seat to retreat before entering and exiting. The seats are fully power adjustable and very comfortable and supportive.

In addition to the joystick controller, the center console contains adjustments for the suspension, steering and traction control. As with most manufacturers, the driving settings aren’t remembered and must be changed from the eco mode with each trip.

The RX 350 includes automatic braking to prevent rear-end collisions and radar cruise control that includes lane center assist. This function took getting used to as it seemed at times that it was necessary to fight the vehicle while steering.

While Lexus doesn’t advertise the RX as self-driving, it is capable of doing so — although the driver is warned to take hold of the steering wheel. The steering wheel vibrates, as well, if drifting into another lane without signaling.

Blind spot warning systems are also included in each rearview mirror. Driver visibility is excellent. The rear-camera system accommodates a full 360-degree view and the view can be adjusted on the fly.

The rear deck is automatic and can be opened via key fob or release under the trunk lid. A button can be pushed to lower the hatch in addition to starting it down manually.

One very nice feature is a rare, automatic dual-climate system that doesn’t include an air conditioner function. The AC will come on automatically as needed to reach the desired temperature. The seats are both heated and cooled.

The cargo area is spacious and rear seats recline, as well as fold down.

Performance and handling

As mentioned, the 3.5-liter V6 isn’t underpowered at 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It feels less than inspired, however. The RX weighs over 4,000 pounds and it simply isn’t as quick to 60 mph, at 6.9 seconds according to Lexus, as one would expect. While that time is not lumbering, it is well behind German competitors.

The RX 350 is favorably priced, however, compared to German models and that must be factored. It isn’t only the quickness of this car, but the steering-and-braking feel that disappoint.

In addition to confusing safety features that can interfere with driver-steering feel, the steering is light and unresponsive. The feel leans toward luxury rather than spirited driving.

Handling is good, and the car corners very well, though understeer is prevalent. It seems as though the original track chosen around corners proves wrong midway through. The tradeoff is that at freeway speeds this car is a dream to drive. It is quiet and smooth. Not everyone is interested in a crossover that screams around curvy canyon roads as much as one that makes city commuting and long trips absolutely enjoyable.

This vehicle simply rides and handles differently than it looks. Lexus has chosen comfort and luxury over spirited performance and stiff, sport sedan-like cornering and steering. It’s not a bad thing and many drivers will appreciate that a clear choice is available when comparing ride and handling to sporty and more expensive German offerings. The quiet interior and lack of exhaust note is also luxurious in feel.

Lexus sedans more than make up the difference for those looking for performance-oriented handling. Not every SUV and crossover buyer is looking for sub-six second zero-to-60 times and harsh ride.

Conclusion

Lexus is to be commended for blending aggressive styling with refinement and luxury that is tough to match. Lexus SUVs and crossovers have begun to rival its sedans in sales figures. It is obvious why.

The refinement of the RX 350 is a clear alternative to the performance-oriented offerings from Germany. The panoramic sunroof and opulent interior welcomes long drives and city commutes with equal vigor.

The RX isn’t a slouch when it comes to handling, but will disappoint those who want a crossover that feels more like a sport sedan. Compared to offerings by non-luxury brands such as Kia and Ford, this vehicle bridges the price gap between them and Audi and offers every appointment possible.

The RX 350 is very pleasant to drive. That may not sound exciting to some, but will thrill most.

Specs

Vehicle type: front engine, AWD, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback

Engine: DOHC 3.5-liter V6. Aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 211 cubic inches, 3456 CC

Power: 295 horsepower, 267 pound-feet torque

Transmission: 8-speed auto with paddle shifters

Wheelbase: 109.8 inches

Zero to 60 mph: 6.9 seconds

Top speed: 129 mph

Fuel economy: EPA 19 city/26 highway MPG

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds

Cup holders: 4

Power ports: 3 power and 2 USB

Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles drivetrain; 4 years/50,000 bumper to bumper; 4 years roadside coverage

Price as tested: $60,284

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