Lexus RX450h 3.5 (A) Review
28 Dec 2010|17,813 views
No one person can be credited for the invention of the automobile that you are driving today. It developed bit by bit from the ideas, imaginations, fantasies and the brainstorming of hundreds of individuals through hundreds of years.
First there was the Toyota Prius, who was the king of hybrids, then the Honda Insight and the Nissan Leaf. And somewhere in between this time of evolution, Lexus saw the potential in the innovation.
Today's buyers believe their powerful SUVs work best with their active lifestyle, so the market has responded by providing diesel and hybrid engines as options for beating the high prices of petrol.
One such vehicle is the Lexus RX450h (h for hybrid).
Lexus played the game as safely as they could. The Lexus RX, one of the bestselling of all Lexus models, is a cash cow for the brand. Thus, when the time for revamping came, Lexus knew how not to mess with a good thing.
So it comes as no surprise that the latest RX270, 350 and its hybrid sibling 450h are largely the same as they've always been - pleasant and inoffensive.
Exterior
Styling wise, the difference in details are minor - headlamps are smaller but no less sharp and sleeker and a more muscular appearance from the size. The swooping roofline and wider sculpted body sides are somewhat more dictatorial than before and it's still handsome.
First there was the Toyota Prius, who was the king of hybrids, then the Honda Insight and the Nissan Leaf. And somewhere in between this time of evolution, Lexus saw the potential in the innovation.
Today's buyers believe their powerful SUVs work best with their active lifestyle, so the market has responded by providing diesel and hybrid engines as options for beating the high prices of petrol.
One such vehicle is the Lexus RX450h (h for hybrid).
Lexus played the game as safely as they could. The Lexus RX, one of the bestselling of all Lexus models, is a cash cow for the brand. Thus, when the time for revamping came, Lexus knew how not to mess with a good thing.
So it comes as no surprise that the latest RX270, 350 and its hybrid sibling 450h are largely the same as they've always been - pleasant and inoffensive.
Exterior
Styling wise, the difference in details are minor - headlamps are smaller but no less sharp and sleeker and a more muscular appearance from the size. The swooping roofline and wider sculpted body sides are somewhat more dictatorial than before and it's still handsome.
It's easy to spot a couple of differences between the hybrid and conventional models though. The hybrid ones feature unique front grille and bumper with blue-tinted L badges and lighting elements up front and at the back.
Similarly to the front, the side appears relatively aggressive and muscular rather than sleek. The eye is drawn to a crease line that runs downwards as it flows backwards to the rear wheel arch. Clever use of chrome at the bottom side also draws all attention to the "hybrid" logo, as if it was meant to show off its fuel saving capabilities.
Aside from looking nearly identical to the conventionally powered RX model, the 450h is a clean yet tough looking SUV that somehow remains subtle, contemporary and conservative.
Interior
Inside, it is unmistakeably Lexus, thanks to its stylish combination of plush leather, soft-touch plastics and fine metallic finishes which remain conservative yet pleasing to the eye.
But of course, that's not all to the Lexus. Comfort wise, benches have been designed to spoil backs and backsides better than an army of Thai masseuses, complementing the RX's excellent driving position. The leather feels soft and space for four lengthy adults is more than adequate, with head and legroom beyond plentiful.
However, the centre console is a tad less rich and inviting, with less wood trim covering the steering wheel and the dash. It's not exactly a bad thing, given the fact that there is more grip on the leather-wrapped steering. Nonetheless, customers are able to customise the interior for the contemporary wooden look if the massive use of leather is not to their liking.
Inside, it is unmistakeably Lexus, thanks to its stylish combination of plush leather, soft-touch plastics and fine metallic finishes which remain conservative yet pleasing to the eye.
But of course, that's not all to the Lexus. Comfort wise, benches have been designed to spoil backs and backsides better than an army of Thai masseuses, complementing the RX's excellent driving position. The leather feels soft and space for four lengthy adults is more than adequate, with head and legroom beyond plentiful.
However, the centre console is a tad less rich and inviting, with less wood trim covering the steering wheel and the dash. It's not exactly a bad thing, given the fact that there is more grip on the leather-wrapped steering. Nonetheless, customers are able to customise the interior for the contemporary wooden look if the massive use of leather is not to their liking.
Round the back, cargo space is accommodating as well, allowing up to 446 litres behind the folding rear seats. Stow the seats and the space increases by a couple of notches.
Generally, where the RX really shines is its cabin. The interior of the RX450h is lush and with the new Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System pumping out the music through 15 speakers, this car provides the finest audio performance.
Generally, where the RX really shines is its cabin. The interior of the RX450h is lush and with the new Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System pumping out the music through 15 speakers, this car provides the finest audio performance.
Drivetrain
Press the Stop/Start button and almost nothing can be heard. The car is so eerily muted that at idling, I had to steal a glance at the tachometer to be completely sure that the engine is actually running. So for those who are after a quiet and seamless drive, this hybrid here might just be able to knock you off the charts with its silence.
Engage the E-CVT gearbox, release the foot-operated parking brake and the movable mass literally glides away. The RX450h may not have the punchiness of some of its competitors but it is by no means a sloth. Step on the right pedal and the RX takes off with authority in an urgent and slip-free manner.
For people who are into saving gas, keeping the gauge in the green zone becomes an addictive game, with the payoff being a fairly impressive fuel economy figure for a nicely appointed full-size SUV.
Although this big boy has ample power and torque of 295bhp and 317Nm respectively, the RX450h is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You'll seldom have trouble overtaking on the roads as it holds the road well for a vehicle of its size and behaves very predictably when pushed. And while it can get up to a decent gallop with minimal fuss, you'll want to drive this Lexus like a real gentleman.
Press the Stop/Start button and almost nothing can be heard. The car is so eerily muted that at idling, I had to steal a glance at the tachometer to be completely sure that the engine is actually running. So for those who are after a quiet and seamless drive, this hybrid here might just be able to knock you off the charts with its silence.
Engage the E-CVT gearbox, release the foot-operated parking brake and the movable mass literally glides away. The RX450h may not have the punchiness of some of its competitors but it is by no means a sloth. Step on the right pedal and the RX takes off with authority in an urgent and slip-free manner.
For people who are into saving gas, keeping the gauge in the green zone becomes an addictive game, with the payoff being a fairly impressive fuel economy figure for a nicely appointed full-size SUV.
Although this big boy has ample power and torque of 295bhp and 317Nm respectively, the RX450h is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You'll seldom have trouble overtaking on the roads as it holds the road well for a vehicle of its size and behaves very predictably when pushed. And while it can get up to a decent gallop with minimal fuss, you'll want to drive this Lexus like a real gentleman.
More significant is the leap made in the integration of power sources. The clever electronics manage the almost seamless transition from battery to petrol power. When both power sources work together, the 7.8 seconds Lexus claims the RX450h takes from naught to hundred seems entirely plausible.
The RX450h upholds Lexus' reputation for seamless and interior isolation - its ride is on the soft side of sporty while the steering feel is firm and responsive.
The suspension is compliant and although sound insulation isolates passengers from the outside world, the V6 engine, at full throttle, does make a surprising amount of noise.
Conclusion
Although it can be heavy on the wallet, it's undeniable that the Lexus RX450h delivers a reasonably impressive fuel economy of 6.3 litres/100km and provides all the power, amenities and flawless build quality consumers have come to expect from Lexus.
This SUV is intended to be a relaxed and comfortable cruiser, not an invigorating corner carver. And based on our test drive, it fulfils that mission well.
So the million dollar question is - is this hybrid for you?
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The RX450h upholds Lexus' reputation for seamless and interior isolation - its ride is on the soft side of sporty while the steering feel is firm and responsive.
The suspension is compliant and although sound insulation isolates passengers from the outside world, the V6 engine, at full throttle, does make a surprising amount of noise.
Conclusion
Although it can be heavy on the wallet, it's undeniable that the Lexus RX450h delivers a reasonably impressive fuel economy of 6.3 litres/100km and provides all the power, amenities and flawless build quality consumers have come to expect from Lexus.
This SUV is intended to be a relaxed and comfortable cruiser, not an invigorating corner carver. And based on our test drive, it fulfils that mission well.
So the million dollar question is - is this hybrid for you?
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
No one person can be credited for the invention of the automobile that you are driving today. It developed bit by bit from the ideas, imaginations, fantasies and the brainstorming of hundreds of individuals through hundreds of years.
First there was the Toyota Prius, who was the king of hybrids, then the Honda Insight and the Nissan Leaf. And somewhere in between this time of evolution, Lexus saw the potential in the innovation.
Today's buyers believe their powerful SUVs work best with their active lifestyle, so the market has responded by providing diesel and hybrid engines as options for beating the high prices of petrol.
One such vehicle is the Lexus RX450h (h for hybrid).
Lexus played the game as safely as they could. The Lexus RX, one of the bestselling of all Lexus models, is a cash cow for the brand. Thus, when the time for revamping came, Lexus knew how not to mess with a good thing.
So it comes as no surprise that the latest RX270, 350 and its hybrid sibling 450h are largely the same as they've always been - pleasant and inoffensive.
Exterior
Styling wise, the difference in details are minor - headlamps are smaller but no less sharp and sleeker and a more muscular appearance from the size. The swooping roofline and wider sculpted body sides are somewhat more dictatorial than before and it's still handsome.
First there was the Toyota Prius, who was the king of hybrids, then the Honda Insight and the Nissan Leaf. And somewhere in between this time of evolution, Lexus saw the potential in the innovation.
Today's buyers believe their powerful SUVs work best with their active lifestyle, so the market has responded by providing diesel and hybrid engines as options for beating the high prices of petrol.
One such vehicle is the Lexus RX450h (h for hybrid).
Lexus played the game as safely as they could. The Lexus RX, one of the bestselling of all Lexus models, is a cash cow for the brand. Thus, when the time for revamping came, Lexus knew how not to mess with a good thing.
So it comes as no surprise that the latest RX270, 350 and its hybrid sibling 450h are largely the same as they've always been - pleasant and inoffensive.
Exterior
Styling wise, the difference in details are minor - headlamps are smaller but no less sharp and sleeker and a more muscular appearance from the size. The swooping roofline and wider sculpted body sides are somewhat more dictatorial than before and it's still handsome.
It's easy to spot a couple of differences between the hybrid and conventional models though. The hybrid ones feature unique front grille and bumper with blue-tinted L badges and lighting elements up front and at the back.
Similarly to the front, the side appears relatively aggressive and muscular rather than sleek. The eye is drawn to a crease line that runs downwards as it flows backwards to the rear wheel arch. Clever use of chrome at the bottom side also draws all attention to the "hybrid" logo, as if it was meant to show off its fuel saving capabilities.
Aside from looking nearly identical to the conventionally powered RX model, the 450h is a clean yet tough looking SUV that somehow remains subtle, contemporary and conservative.
Interior
Inside, it is unmistakeably Lexus, thanks to its stylish combination of plush leather, soft-touch plastics and fine metallic finishes which remain conservative yet pleasing to the eye.
But of course, that's not all to the Lexus. Comfort wise, benches have been designed to spoil backs and backsides better than an army of Thai masseuses, complementing the RX's excellent driving position. The leather feels soft and space for four lengthy adults is more than adequate, with head and legroom beyond plentiful.
However, the centre console is a tad less rich and inviting, with less wood trim covering the steering wheel and the dash. It's not exactly a bad thing, given the fact that there is more grip on the leather-wrapped steering. Nonetheless, customers are able to customise the interior for the contemporary wooden look if the massive use of leather is not to their liking.
Inside, it is unmistakeably Lexus, thanks to its stylish combination of plush leather, soft-touch plastics and fine metallic finishes which remain conservative yet pleasing to the eye.
But of course, that's not all to the Lexus. Comfort wise, benches have been designed to spoil backs and backsides better than an army of Thai masseuses, complementing the RX's excellent driving position. The leather feels soft and space for four lengthy adults is more than adequate, with head and legroom beyond plentiful.
However, the centre console is a tad less rich and inviting, with less wood trim covering the steering wheel and the dash. It's not exactly a bad thing, given the fact that there is more grip on the leather-wrapped steering. Nonetheless, customers are able to customise the interior for the contemporary wooden look if the massive use of leather is not to their liking.
Round the back, cargo space is accommodating as well, allowing up to 446 litres behind the folding rear seats. Stow the seats and the space increases by a couple of notches.
Generally, where the RX really shines is its cabin. The interior of the RX450h is lush and with the new Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System pumping out the music through 15 speakers, this car provides the finest audio performance.
Generally, where the RX really shines is its cabin. The interior of the RX450h is lush and with the new Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System pumping out the music through 15 speakers, this car provides the finest audio performance.
Drivetrain
Press the Stop/Start button and almost nothing can be heard. The car is so eerily muted that at idling, I had to steal a glance at the tachometer to be completely sure that the engine is actually running. So for those who are after a quiet and seamless drive, this hybrid here might just be able to knock you off the charts with its silence.
Engage the E-CVT gearbox, release the foot-operated parking brake and the movable mass literally glides away. The RX450h may not have the punchiness of some of its competitors but it is by no means a sloth. Step on the right pedal and the RX takes off with authority in an urgent and slip-free manner.
For people who are into saving gas, keeping the gauge in the green zone becomes an addictive game, with the payoff being a fairly impressive fuel economy figure for a nicely appointed full-size SUV.
Although this big boy has ample power and torque of 295bhp and 317Nm respectively, the RX450h is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You'll seldom have trouble overtaking on the roads as it holds the road well for a vehicle of its size and behaves very predictably when pushed. And while it can get up to a decent gallop with minimal fuss, you'll want to drive this Lexus like a real gentleman.
Press the Stop/Start button and almost nothing can be heard. The car is so eerily muted that at idling, I had to steal a glance at the tachometer to be completely sure that the engine is actually running. So for those who are after a quiet and seamless drive, this hybrid here might just be able to knock you off the charts with its silence.
Engage the E-CVT gearbox, release the foot-operated parking brake and the movable mass literally glides away. The RX450h may not have the punchiness of some of its competitors but it is by no means a sloth. Step on the right pedal and the RX takes off with authority in an urgent and slip-free manner.
For people who are into saving gas, keeping the gauge in the green zone becomes an addictive game, with the payoff being a fairly impressive fuel economy figure for a nicely appointed full-size SUV.
Although this big boy has ample power and torque of 295bhp and 317Nm respectively, the RX450h is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You'll seldom have trouble overtaking on the roads as it holds the road well for a vehicle of its size and behaves very predictably when pushed. And while it can get up to a decent gallop with minimal fuss, you'll want to drive this Lexus like a real gentleman.
More significant is the leap made in the integration of power sources. The clever electronics manage the almost seamless transition from battery to petrol power. When both power sources work together, the 7.8 seconds Lexus claims the RX450h takes from naught to hundred seems entirely plausible.
The RX450h upholds Lexus' reputation for seamless and interior isolation - its ride is on the soft side of sporty while the steering feel is firm and responsive.
The suspension is compliant and although sound insulation isolates passengers from the outside world, the V6 engine, at full throttle, does make a surprising amount of noise.
Conclusion
Although it can be heavy on the wallet, it's undeniable that the Lexus RX450h delivers a reasonably impressive fuel economy of 6.3 litres/100km and provides all the power, amenities and flawless build quality consumers have come to expect from Lexus.
This SUV is intended to be a relaxed and comfortable cruiser, not an invigorating corner carver. And based on our test drive, it fulfils that mission well.
So the million dollar question is - is this hybrid for you?
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The RX450h upholds Lexus' reputation for seamless and interior isolation - its ride is on the soft side of sporty while the steering feel is firm and responsive.
The suspension is compliant and although sound insulation isolates passengers from the outside world, the V6 engine, at full throttle, does make a surprising amount of noise.
Conclusion
Although it can be heavy on the wallet, it's undeniable that the Lexus RX450h delivers a reasonably impressive fuel economy of 6.3 litres/100km and provides all the power, amenities and flawless build quality consumers have come to expect from Lexus.
This SUV is intended to be a relaxed and comfortable cruiser, not an invigorating corner carver. And based on our test drive, it fulfils that mission well.
So the million dollar question is - is this hybrid for you?
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Car Information
Lexus RX450h Hybrid 3.5 Luxury (A)
CAT B|Petrol-Electric|15.9km/L
Horsepower
220kW (295 bhp)
Torque
317 Nm
Acceleration
7.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
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