I don't think Chuck T knows quite what he's talking about (not the one who suggested the Corvette, because I second that). For the same price as a 5-seat Lexus RX350, you can get a 7-seat Acura MDX with room to spare. The Lexus might take the Acura in acceleration (because of the lower weight due to not offering as much space as the Acura), however the MDX by far in a way trumps the RX in handling. The Acura's SHAWD system is generations ahead of the Lexus' full time system (that is if you opt to pay extra for the AWD on the Lexus, since it isn't standard on it while it is on the Acura). Also, even with the Acura's extra mass and larger engine (3.7L vs. 3.4L), the MDX still manages to tie the RX in fuel economy (17 city, 22 highway). With that said, I think you should get the Lexus. I have an '07 MDX and love it, but for none of the reasons that you mentioned you want. The Lexus probably is a little bit more comfortable and luxurious with a smoother ride, like you say your wife wants. Either way you really can't go wrong, both are extremely high in quality and satisfaction. I'd drive them both and have your wife drive them both, then see what you like and dislike about the cars before buying. Internet sites can only tell you so much about a car whereas a test drive tells you a lot.