Test Lexus RX 450h+ (2023): Very controlled fuel consumption

The fifth-generation Lexus RX replaces its hybrid V6 with a 4-cylinder electrified engine. A choice that promotes low fuel consumption. Verdict behind the wheel of this luxurious SUV.

When the first generation of the Lexus RX arrived in the early 2000s, the model positioned itself as an alternative to the luxury SUVs of that time (Jeep Grand Cherokee, BMW X5, Mercedes ML…). Unveiled in 2003, the second generation is much more interesting and truly marks the RX’s entry into automotive history.

Thus, starting in March 2005, this model introduced the first gasoline hybrid powertrain in this type of vehicle. At the time, the Lexus RX 400h allowed the V6 to moderate its consumption and even run briefly in all-electric mode. On June 17, 2005, in the pages of autodeclics.com, I wrote about it: ” Maintaining the satisfaction of a good six-cylinder gasoline, the RX 400h consumes like its diesel competitors. While the 8.1 liters of combined consumption announced seem somewhat optimistic, an average of 10.5 liters recorded during our test appears more realistic. In any case, opponents to gasoline (VW Touareg V6, Mercedes ML 350) are outperformed.” Reducing gasoline consumption and CO2 emissions was already a win for Lexus, which continues to perfect its technology and reassure SUV enthusiasts.

A more homogeneous style

Five generations later, the Lexus RX is still here, and it remains the best-selling model in Toyota’s Luxury division. While the previous model’s styling was somewhat divisive, this new model was developed from a clean sheet, and at Mobiwisy, we find it quite successful. Its shark-like front grille is emblematic of this fifth generation, clearly emphasizing a dynamic design. Halfway between a traditional SUV and a coupe SUV, the 2023 RX features a very high beltline and particularly styled sides. With its rear lights aligned with the tailgate and integrated lettering, it stands out distinctly from its predecessor. Like the previous one, it has an American-sized footprint (4.89 meters long), but significantly improves in wheelbase (60 mm better).

Quality on the agenda

The interior is far from the flamboyance of early models. Where once there were wood trims made of walnut, Lexus now offers a notably restrained design infused with modern elements. If you’re familiar with the brand, you’ll notice similarities with the interior of the “small” NX model. The central multimedia display offers excellent readability, similar to the traditional analog gauges of past models. And what about the driving position? Very successful, especially since it features one of the best steering wheels in current automotive production. Finally, the finish quality is top-notch in its category, notably in terms of assembly.

In terms of space, it’s quite good too. The front passengers enjoy royal comfort, and in the rear, there’s ample knee room, especially since the absence of a transmission tunnel allows the third passenger to place their feet freely. The rear bench, being too firm in the middle, will make long-distance use of this fifth seat somewhat precarious. Lastly, the trunk capacity is good, but the high loading height will make it difficult to access some luggage in the back.

A sometimes disconcerting ergonomics

Once the introductions are done, it’s time to get to the heart of the matter. Starting with the ergonomics of the Lexus RX. It will take some time to get accustomed to the various functions, which are almost all controlled from the multimedia screen or the steering wheel. Adjusting the climate control or tuning the radio is child’s play, but some details are more complex, such as displaying electric charging stations or simply opening a door with the push buttons, which may not appeal to everyone. Another increasingly common detail is, the need to disable the speed alert warning at each start or the annoying automatic braking system that engages during tight parking. Parking manually and intuitively is almost impossible inside the RX.

Goodbye to the V6

The hybridization allowed many enthusiasts of six-cylinder engines to keep their passion for noble mechanics, while reducing consumption and tax penalties. Faced with tightening standards, Lexus has decided to abandon the renowned V6 in favor of a well-known 4-cylinder hybrid. This is the proven powertrain from the Toyota RAV4, a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder, combined with two electric motors.

Now a plug-in hybrid, the Lexus RX 450h+ produces power close to its previous V6 Full Hybrid predecessor, at 313 hp, but with a significantly higher torque figure, set at 572 Nm. Quite an attractive technical sheet, but let’s not forget that this Japanese SUV is very heavy. With the battery of 18.1 kWh, it operates in electric mode at startup. Thanks to the laminated glass, silence is golden. We have been able to exceed 60 km in 100% electric driving, bringing it closer to a Mercedes GLE 400e, a champion in this area with nearly 90 km.

On a journey of over 600 km where we had plenty of time to deplete the battery, the Lexus RX 450h+ demonstrated excellent acceleration and recovery qualities. While the smoothness of the V6 is somewhat missing, the 4-cylinder isn’t unpleasant, and its sound remains fairly well contained. Furthermore, while it doesn’t match a torque converter transmission in terms of driving pleasure, the Japanese CVT continuously variable transmission does a good job of preventing the engine from revving too loudly. This transmission actually works better with large-displacement engines. Once again, Lexus impresses with its low fuel consumption. We achieved an average of about 7 liters per 100 km on the SUV.

A not-so-fast recharge

With a fully charged battery and tank, the range can exceed 700 km, which is quite good for a plug-in hybrid. However, the RX’s recharge speed is disappointing. The charging power is capped at only 6.6 kW. We plugged into an AC outlet during a highway stop and the dashboard estimated more than 2 hours 30 minutes of patience… No fast charging option is available, unfortunately…

An almost sporty driving behavior

It’s hard to imagine that such a vehicle could deliver any thrill in spirited driving. Nevertheless, the Lexus RX 450h+ offers a quite enjoyable driving experience, especially considering its structural rigidity. Its partial all-wheel drive guarantees infallible grip on wet, slippery surfaces. The steering is fairly precise, but the inertia of the vehicle is noticeable in tight turns. Equipped with adaptive suspension in the Executive trim, it provides good comfort on highways but can be a bit too firm over rutted roads (thanks to its 21-inch wheels).

The price and equipment of the Lexus RX 450h+

Back in the day, owning a Lexus was a way to stand out and benefit from a luxurious model with a better equipment-to-price ratio than German rivals. Nowadays, the Japanese SUV has very high prices but retains its advanced technology. To get a RX 450h+, you will need to spend at least 93,400 € for the “Luxury” trim, which already includes a comprehensive set of equipment: leather heated and ventilated steering wheel, leather upholstery with heating and cooling, Panasonic 12-speaker audio, keyless access and starting, electric tailgate, 21″ wheels…

Our test vehicle was an Executive version. Priced from 103,000 €, it features a panoramic opening roof, metallic paint, adaptive suspension, head-up display, 3-zone climate control, Mark Levinson® Premium Surround sound system with 21 speakers…

Note that there are no taxes or penalties due to exemption for this type of vehicle capable of running over 50 km electrically. Finally, Lexus’s warranty is 3 years or 100,000 km.

Summary of the Lexus RX 450h+ review

The fifth generation of the Lexus RX is interesting in many ways. It managed to fix some flaws of the previous model, starting with its somewhat overly intricate style, while improving as much as possible: handling, equipment, finish… While regretting the disappearance of the full hybrid V6, it must be recognized that the arrival of a 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid unit is very consistent in terms of consumption and CO2 emissions, without significantly penalizing overall driving pleasure.

Pros: controlled consumption; impeccable finish; high technological content

Cons: irritating driver aids; significant weight; increasing prices

Technical specifications of the Lexus RX 450h+