Lexus RX450h Luxury 3.5 Review: Electric Avenue

What we like:

Effortless and seamless performance

impressive refinement

superb fuel economy

well-equipped

What we dislike:

Noticeable body lean in the bends

still looks mundane

interior starts to feel its age

It is mostly standard RX fare on the inside. The driving position is commanding and comfortable and there’s good space to use at the rear for both passengers and load. Instead of a rev counter like in the other RX models, the RX450h has a power gauge. The updated model features new trim and inlays as well as a new steering wheel shared with the new GS. Also new is a standard head up display in the Luxury model we tested. Lexus’ Remote Touch Interface multimedia operating system is a standard fare. The menus on the display screen are intuitive enough for use and navigation but the Remote Touch controller isn’t exactly the nest tool to navigate the cursor on the screen as it can be pretty inaccurate.

Next to newer models like the GS though, the RX’s cabin does show its age overall, especially in details like the dash mounted clock and the bland looking plastic surfaces. Overall build quality is unquestionable and everything should work and last through the life span of the car.

The Luxury spec model features standard kit like LED headlamps with daytime running lights, head-up display, electric sunroof, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation system, cruise control, keyless access and start and so on.

Despite the ever increasing threat from newer hybrid SUV models from Europe, the updates for Lexus’ venerable RX hybrid ought to be sufficient to keep it competitive and hence, popular for at least some time to come.

Credits: Story and Photos by Joe Yeo