The Los Angeles auto show had a low-key opening on Wednesday as executives from the biggest US automakers appeared in Washington to seek a multi-billion dollar loan to keep the industry afloat. Lexus announced the 2010 RX models which feature a unique Lexus' "Remote Touch" controller for the Hard Disk Drive navigation system, a computer mouse-shaped device on the center console that sits right where your right hand normally rests. The device is similar to a joystick and controls a pointer on the navigation screen. Dedicated "menu," "map" and up and down scroll buttons are designed to make the device easy to use and Lexus has obviously worked to keep the number of screens to a minimum. The device can also be custom programmed to the level of feedback that the user prefers, allowing drivers to decide how "touchy" they want the pointer to be. While RX will feature voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM satellite-radio capability is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.

The new RX will go on sale in February 2009 with a selection of optional packages, which include features like a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, dynamic radar cruise control, and a Sports Package featuring a sport-tuned suspension.

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