Lexus RX Hybrid

For 2023, along with a full redesign, Lexus changes the hybrid RX's badge to the RX 350h. Now sporting a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine instead of the outgoing V6, fuel economy increases to an impressive 34 mpg overall in our tests, and the car can propel itself on electric power alone at low speeds. The new hybrid combo produces 246 hp, a significant drop from the previous generation, and refinement is down with added engine noise under acceleration. The ride is comfortable whether on the standard 19-inch or optional 21-inch tires. Handling is sound and secure but not sporty. The rear seat is roomy and fit and finish is impeccable. It takes getting used to the electronic door latches. The infotainment system relies on a touchscreen for nearly every audio, climate, phone, and navigation task, but not everything is intuitive. The top version, badged RX 500h, has a powerful turbo and hybrid combo producing 366 hp. BSW, RCTW, FCW, AEB, ACC, LDW, LKA, and LCA are standard. Beginning in 2024, a plug-in hybrid, the 450h+, with an EPA estimated 37-mile electric range was added.

For 2016, the redesigned AWD RX 450h combines a 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors and a battery system to produce 308 hp, and can propel itself solely on electric power at low speeds. A FWD model is only available for the 2016 model year. The RX 450h gets an excellent 29 mpg overall in our tests. Ride comfort is plush, whether buyers get the base car on 18-inch tires or one of the more uplevel versions with 20-inch tires. Handling is sound and secure but not sporty. Inside, the RX is very quiet and well-finished. In 2020, the awkward mouse like infotainment controller is replaced with an awkward touchpad, but thankfully the SUV also gained a touch screen. BSW and RCTW are standard for 2016-2017, optional from 2018-2020, and standard thereafter. FCW, AEB, ACC, LDW, LKA, and LCA are optional for 2016 and standard starting from 2017. 

The AWD RX 400h combines a 3.3-liter V6 with three electric motors and a battery system to produce 268 hp, and can propel itself solely on electric power at low speeds. It is available in both FWD and AWD configurations. AWD models use a separate electric motor to power the rear wheels, eliminating the need for a driveshaft. The RX 400h has a plush interior, a quiet cabin, and a comfortable ride. Acceleration is smooth and strong, on par with some V8s. Overall fuel economy of 23 mpg is a moderate improvement over the 19 mpg in our tested RX 350. While the RX 400h is an inviting blend of performance, fuel economy, comfort, and luxury amenities, buyers interested in it only to save money might be disappointed. Stability control, traction control, ABS, TPMS, and daytime running lights are all standard.