What We Learned After 3000 Miles in a £70,000 Lexus RX PHEV
This car presents a bit of an identity challenge. Since the launch of Toyota’s luxury brand’s Radiant Crossover (yes, really) in 1998, the Lexus RX range has always been about luxury. These aren’t sports cars, but rather limousines on stilts, prioritizing comfort and opulence over driver appeal or off-road prowess.
That reputation was further solidified in 2005 when the RX became the first hybrid large SUV, seamlessly blending the quiet operation of electric power with the performance of a petrol V6.
With the F Sport Design trim, this fifth-generation RX conveys a more aggressive aesthetic. However, a short drive is all it takes to realize that the core strengths of the RX remain.
Unlike the 500h variant, which features a six-speed automatic gearbox, this 450h+ retains the e-CVT transmission. While many drivers aren’t fans of CVTs, it works very well here. Perhaps the large battery pack and powerful electric motor help to overcome the shortcomings often found in CVTs.
New Features
This car does deviate from its predecessors in two key ways. First, the long-serving 3.5-litre V6 has been replaced by a more efficient 2.5-litre four-cylinder. Second, in contrast to the standard 350h hybrid, the 450h+ is the first plug-in hybrid RX, with an 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a claimed 42 miles of electric-only range.
This also results in impressive performance, with a large front and smaller rear electric motor boosting the petrol engine’s 182bhp to a total of 304bhp. This allows a 0-62mph sprint in 6.5 seconds (compared to 7.9 seconds for the standard hybrid) and a top speed of 124mph. That’s not bad for a vehicle weighing over 2.1 tonnes.
The PHEV is certainly popular. In 2023, the RX achieved its highest-ever sales in Europe, a market generally less receptive to US-focused SUVs. Lexus claims that the RX was the world’s first luxury SUV.
While some might disagree, the RX was certainly the first to adopt monocoque construction, providing car-like refinement and road manners.
Interior Review
The 21-inch wheels of the test car introduce a certain amount of bumpiness into the cabin, but the overall refinement is excellent. The cabin has a cocoon-like feel, aided by thick door seals. The windows are programmed to slow their climb as they near the top of the frame to avoid a harsh change in air pressure as they close.
The four-cylinder engine does lack the smoothness of rival six-cylinder engines.
The RX also has less boot capacity than the X5 Drive50e and Volvo XC90 T8. However, at 461 litres (612 litres if filled to the roof), it’s still relatively large, and the PHEV RX offers the same cargo space as its hybrid siblings.
The battery pack does reduce the fuel tank’s capacity slightly, which is 55 litres compared to the 65 litres offered by the 350h and 500h. However, the additional battery range should compensate for this.
Passenger Comfort
This car offers great comfort for passengers, with a 2850mm wheelbase that is 60mm longer than the old RX, providing ample space for rear occupants.
The front seats are roomy and have a driver-focused dashboard layout. The interior quality is good, enhanced by soft-touch materials throughout. The generous features mean you lack for very little. One option was a premium paint in a silver color, which really accentuated the Lexus’s ‘Spindle’ grille design.
Driving Experience
This is a large vehicle, at almost five metres long and nearly two metres wide. It feels its size on country lanes, when you find yourself diving into hedges to avoid other vehicles.
Most time is spent in traffic or on motorways, in which case it offers a soothing driving experience.
While a touch of agility is sometimes desired, the RX otherwise excels.
Technology Review
The Lexus Link+ smartphone app proved useful during a recent cold snap.
The app’s remote climate control is user-friendly managing fuel and battery levels, range, and any car warnings – and it can be used to set the temperature remotely. The heated seats and steering wheel also offer exceptional comfort features.
Practicality
Since the launch some luxury cars have evolved to be more accommodating for daily use, like family life.
The RX is a seriously practical car, starting with its size. The 2850mm wheelbase provides ample space for rear occupants and you’ll find that the seats fold with ease, thanks to a couple of electric releases beside the tailgate.
The boot feels larger than its 461-litre capacity.
One minor complaint: the boot-close button. The RX also benefits from advanced safety features, like the helpful Lexus Link+ app, sending a helpful notification to let you know if there is a door unlocked.
Conclusion
The RX offers both comfort and capability. In conclusion, the Lexus RX offers a great vehicle experience, perfect for families, commuters, and long road trips. It may not be a sports car, but it excels at its purpose.
