We¡¯ve seen a few RX test mules in recent weeks wearing a chopped up modified body of a current RX model, but this is actually an early prototype distinguished by its heavy camouflage.

The RX will be undergoing a major update for the 2009 model year, with production beginning in late December of 2008, and an on-sale date of early spring of 2009.

The new RX will measure a fraction larger than its predecesor. It will still offer a 3.5-liter V6, but we¡¯re expecting a new 6-speed transmission to go along. Also, a 400-horsepower hybrid powerplant from the Toyota FT-HS Concept is rumored to following in 2010 or 2011.

Overall, the RX will play it safe and keep its recognizable design, but will be modernized to keep up with current styling trends - evolution instead of revolution.