Overview & Reviews

Like its successful RX 400h predecessor, the Lexus RX 450h hybrid crossover SUV allows the hedonist with an environmental conscience to have it both ways. It has enough power to press passengers back into their plush seats, yet it also flies the green flag at full mast thanks to impressive fuel mileage.

Like other Toyota/Lexus dual-mode hybrid products, the 450h can run on battery power alone during light acceleration, and the V6 gas engine shuts off at low speeds when not required. This results in truly excellent fuel economy for a midsize luxury SUV, and when added to the rest of the RX's appealing attributes, there is certainly a lot to like. However, the RX hybrid also carries a premium price that will be hard to recoup with fuel savings alone, so count this as more of a sound eco choice rather than a financial one.

Current Lexus RX 450h
The Lexus RX 450h's 3.5-liter gas V6 engine and battery-pack-driven electric motors/generators yield an impressive total output of 295 hp. All that thrust runs through a specialized continuously variable transmission (CVT), and despite its extra pounds, the hybrid RX is still plenty quick. Fuel economy estimates stand at 30 mpg combined with standard front-wheel drive, or 29 mpg combined with optional all-wheel drive.

Standard luxury features include 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Siri-based control system for iPhone users and a nine-speaker sound system with an iPod/USB interface. A Sport driving mode is also standard, which changes steering effort, throttle response and transmission shifts for a livelier drive. Options (many grouped in packages) include a blind-spot warning system, leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a navigation system, a rear DVD entertainment system and a rearview camera.

The cabin boasts real wood accents as well as a sliding and reclining split rear seat to optimize passenger comfort. With the second row in use, cargo capacity is 40 cubic feet -- double that with the seat folded down. No third-row seat is available.

In reviews, we've found the Lexus RX 450h to be everything you'd expect from a Lexus. It's quiet and comfortable but rather uninspiring to drive. The powertrain is enthusiastic, though, particularly given its low emissions and stellar fuel economy. Overall, the RX 450h's relaxed demeanor and convenient wagon-style body makes it an excellent choice for those in search of a soothing, luxurious and environmentally friendly crossover SUV.

Used Lexus RX 450h Models
The RX 450h debuted for the 2010 model year. There have been only minimal changes since, the most notable ones being a different grille, the Sport drive mode and a few more standard features added for the 2013 model year. The Siri Eyes Free iPhone control became available the year after.

User Reviews:

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  Good Performance - 2010 Lexus RX 450h
  By Apogeelam - March 13 - 8:46 pm

  I am leasing the RX450h for almost a year now. so far, I like it, but it would be good if Lexus have the service for unlock the door for you if you are the owner and you lock out. I went shopping once at 40 miles from my home, and my key dropped on the seat quietly. I called the dealer, and they told me the only thing they could offer is to come pick me up to get my spare key at home. (but I know even have my home key.) The media USB ports are not convenient to reach. Since the dealer is 38 miles away from my house, I am not sure if a local oil change service could do the oil change for me.

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  2010 rx 450h hybrid - 2010 Lexus RX 450h
  By cosgrove6345 - January 31 - 11:58 pm

  I bought this car after careful review from all the usual sources. I am very pleased with my new red car. Comfort package and all the bells and whistles. I studied the reviews and surmised that the way you drive the car dictates the mileage you will get. So no quick starts and using the cruise control when ever possible and averaging 28 mpgs! I live 6 miles from work and drive to mountain bike on the weekends and am getting over 400 miles per tank. You really have to take it easy and enjoy the car to get this but it is achievable .Love the complete voice activation for everything. Just read the manual and you are on your way. Very comfortable and a joy to drive.

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  Before You Buy Hybrid - 2013 Lexus RX 450h
  By sind - July 31 - 5:27 am

  Please dont get the Hybrid version if what you want is to save on gas. Gas required for this vehicle is Premiun, so youll pay more at the pump. The tank takes about 14 gallons and I get about 300 miles about 22 mpg. I believe "Hybrid cars" are just a trend that does little or nothing for the environment. It does Nothing for your wallet. I think the only good thing I heard about Hybrid is that theres no smog check ever. Its extremely distracting every time youre looking at that dashboard to see if youre saving any gas. I wont recommend the hybrid version.

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  All around outstanding mid size SUV - 2013 Lexus RX 450h
  By sgull - July 22 - 8:44 am

  Had a Highlander, drove that and the rx350 and Rx450, the rx 450 beat the others. Its extremely quiet, powerful, luxurious, outstanding build quality and we think very nice looking. It takes getting used to a hybrid in day to day driving, as it doesnt jump off the line unless you want it to. Its almost a game seeing how good of mileage you can get. We are getting at least 28 mph in city driving. We intend to keep this vehicle at least 8 years, and gas is not going to get cheaper so it will pay for us in the long run. The ride on the 450 is smoother than the 350 due to the extra weight of the batteries. We have had zero problems or defects in the 7k plus miles we have driven.