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The Lexus RX 350 comes with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, as well as a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine. (Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.)

TOKYO — Japan has become the latest nation to meet and greet Lexus\’ redesigned RX 350 and RX 450h crossovers.

Generations one and two of the strong-selling RX were always marketed in Japan as the Toyota Harrier. Now, for generation three, the crossover will be badged as a Lexus.

With the market in its current state, Lexus dealers urgently need the cars, especially the high-tech RX 450h hybrid that\’s unquestionably the new image leader.

The RX 450h, with 3.5-liter V6, Lexus Hybrid Drive and E-Four all-wheel drive, stands as a substantial all-round upgrade on the outgoing 3.3-liter RX/Harrier hybrid. It\’s bigger, has more power and a totally redesigned cabin, yet with 44.2 mpg in Japan\’s 10.15-mode cycle, actually boasts better fuel mileage.

Stickers for the RX 450h span the equivalent of $63,333-$72,222, so Lexus may well see more sales action in Japan with the more prosaic RX 350 equipped with a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 and choice of front- and all-wheel drive. That\’s on the block for $51,111-$62,778. Air suspension is a top option on all versions.

The Lexus was launched in Japan in 2005, but sales have never lived up to Toyota\’s expectations although the flagship LS luxury sedan is selling well in its class. In 2008, Lexus sales fell 25.5 percent to 25,945 units.