Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015) Review
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015) At A Glance
Refined and cossetting. Strong performance from hybrid powerplant. Superbly engineered and well built. Low CO2 for a large 4x4 along with good fuel economy.
Not involving to drive. Bland interior lacks the style of other premium SUVs. Ride can be unsettled on 19-inch whees or larger.
Lexus isn't afraid to do things differently as the RX 450h shows. Not only does it look very different from other 4x4s, but as the 'h' in the name suggests, this is a hybrid model. It combines a V6 petrol engine with an electric motor to keep CO2 emissions low at 148g/km and also makes it exempt from the central London congestion charge. Unlike the previous RX model, there is no standard petrol version and as with all the big Lexus models, there's no diesel choice either.
That's pretty surprising given that the most popular models of nearly all large 4x4s are diesels and even the likes of the Porsche Cayenne now offer a more economical oil burner option. But while the RX 450h uses a 3.5-litre V6 petrol unit, the advanced hybrid drive system (along with clever systems such as exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust heat recovery) means it's capable of averaging a claimed 44.8mpg - considerably better than a BMW X5 XDrive 30d which does a claimed 38.2mpg on the combined cycle.
The fact that CO2 emissions are below 160g/km is good news for business users too as it means the RX450 has a writing down allowance of 20% - something no other 4x4 of this size can equal, even the hybrid versions of the Cayenne or the latest Volkswagen Touareg. And as we've come to expect from Lexus, the RX 450h is superbly engineered and feels strong and robust.
On the move it's powerful, quick and smooth plus it deals well with corners too thanks to precise steering and good body control. The only real criticism is the rather drab interior which lacks the panache and style of other premium SUVs and doesn't reflect the advanced technology of the rest of the car. The RX450h was revised in June 2012 with subtle exterior tweaks and new equipment as standard.
Reviews for Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015)'s top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.JPG?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015) handling and engines
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 25–41 mpg
Unlike mild hybrids, which use supplementary electric motor power simply to boost the performance of the petrol engine, the RX 450h is actually full hybrid, capable of operating in both petrol and electric modes alone, or in a combination of both. So essentially it combines the fuel efficiency and reduced emissions of a 'series' hybrid with the acceleration benefits of a parallel hybrid.
The RX 450h's total power output is 295bhp, giving it an impressive 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 7.8 seconds and it certainly feels very quick when you plant your right foot. The CVT automatic gearbox (which comes as standard - there's no manual option) can take some getting used to though. It's actually better if you accelerate gently - if you're aggressive on or when coming off the pedal, the Lexus tends to pitch a little. Going flat out also highlights the RX 450h's other weakness, the lack of grip. Despite being four-wheel drive, all that torque makes the Lexus feel a little light on its toes and it can feel like it's struggling to transfer all that power to the road, especially in the wet.
The actual engine is a 3.5-litre petrol unit that's based on that used in the RX 350, but has been adapted specifically for use in a hybrid. It produces a maximum 246bhp along with 317Nm of torque and also features three Lexus hybrid 'firsts' to optimise the fuel efficiency - Atkinson Cycle, Cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and Exhaust Heat Recovery (EHR).
As a result the RX 450h has one of the lowest claimed fuel economy figures of any large 4x4s with an average of 44.8mpg while emissions are just 148g/km of CO2. There are three driving modes - Eco, EV and Snow. EV mode allows the car to be driven under electric power alone, with minimal noise and zero CO2 and NOx exhaust emissions, up to 25mph. Ideal in town or when in slow moving traffic.
On more demanding roads, the RX 450h feels very surefooted. There's little in the way of steering 'feel', due mainly to the fact it has electric power steering which although weights up at higher speeds, still feels pretty lifeless. But it's positive and sharp in corners and certainly gives you plenty of confidence. It's also particularly stable and quiet at higher speeds and this refinement makes the RX 450h a great long distance car which effortlessly covers motorway miles.
The ride can seem a little unsettled over rough surfaces. Ironically it's better on the SE and SE-I models which come with standard suspension, including a double wishbone rear suspension set-up. The top SE-L and SE-L Premier models come with electronically controlled air suspension which surprisingly isn't quite as forgiving.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450h | 45 mpg | 7.7–7.8 s | 127–145 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
69%
Real MPG
25–41 mpg
MPGs submitted
341
Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015) interior
- Boot space is 446–825 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4770–4890 mm |
| Width | 1885–1895 mm |
| Height | 1685–1715 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2740–2790 mm |
Given that this is one of the most technologically advanced cars on the road and packed with technology, the interior is a bit of a let down. Yes it's very well made and feels like it will last, but there's little in the way of style and it seems drab compared to other 4x4s at this price tag. Compare it to a Range Rover Sport for instance - which has a distinctive and top-end feel to its cabin - and the RX 450h doesn't seem like it's in the same class.
There are some old fashioned features too such as the traditional automatic gearlever (where most premium makes have replaced this with something more modern) and a foot-operated parking brake where you'd expect it to be electric. Then there's the rather dated digital clock display on the central console and some rather odd-looking wood trim.
However there plenty of positives about the interior. Thanks to electric adjustment in the seat and steering column, it's easy to get comfortable behind the wheel and the raised position gives a great view out. The seats are comfortable too, although some drivers may find they lack somewhat in side support. And those in the back get plenty of leg and head space so it's great for carrying passengers on long journeys. Leather upholstery is standard on all models as is dual-zone climate control and heated seats, so you get plenty for our money.
SE-I models and above get sat nav as standard (it's optional in the SE but on a car like this it's something used buyers will expect so worth getting) which comes with a new system called Remote Touch control. It's Lexus's equivalent to BMW's iDrive system and works on the same basic principles as a computer mouse. It's designed to be quick and intuitive to use, with icons presented on the central multi-display screen that give access to adjust the audio, navigation, ventilation, phone and set-up systems.
However, it seems overcomplicated and requires quite a lot of attention, which can take your attention away from the road. This is quite ironic considering that up until recently, Lexus sat nav system wouldn't allow you to enter a destination unless you were stationary. Another problem is that when you're on the move, bumps and jolts make it hard to move the mouse.
Standard equipment from launch (July 2009)
SE is the entry-level grade and gets features including leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth, a nine-speaker sound system with six-CD changer, 18-inch alloy wheels, 10 airbags, HID headlamps, a rear parking monitor and automatic windscreen wipers. The Lexus Navigation System and premium ICE package are available as options.
SE-I models add the Remote Touch control, an electrically operated tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, Lexus Navigation System, 12-speaker audio system and 19-inch alloy wheels. Options include a sunroof, premium ICE package, DAB audio and interior wood inserts.
The SE-L version comes with air suspension, semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, LED headlamps, illuminated front scuff plates, smart keyless entry and push-button start, side view camera, 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio with six-DVD changer and DAB module for digital radio reception. Options include the Wood Package, sunroof and premium ICE.
The SE-L Premier model adds Lexus's Pre-Crash Safety system and Adaptive Cruise Control, sunroof, and Head-Up Display, with the Wood Package optionally available.
Lexus RX 450h (2009 – 2015) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4770–4890 mm |
| Width | 1885–1895 mm |
| Height | 1685–1715 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2740–2790 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 2100–2205 kg |
| Boot Space | 446–825 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £44,571–£61,096 |
| Insurance Groups | 41 |
| Road Tax Bands | Alternative fuel, D–F |
| Official MPG | 44.8–51.4 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until December 2020
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.5 Luxury E-Cvt 5dr | £51,690 | 44.8 mpg | 7.7 s |
On sale until October 2015
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Advance 299 CVT Auto 5dr | £48,495 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
On sale until September 2012
| 4 X 4 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Advance 5dr Auto | £48,446 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
| SE 5dr Auto | £44,571 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
| SE-I 5dr Auto | £48,446 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
| SE-L 5dr Auto | £54,146 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
| SE-L Premier 5dr Auto | £61,096 | 44.8 mpg | 7.8 s |
Model History
- December 2008: World premiere of new RX
- January 2011
- May 2012: New look for Lexus RX 450h
- August 2014: Lexus RX 450h Advance launched
December 2008
World premiere of new RX
For the UK the RX 450h replaced both thre RX 350 and RX 400h making the RX range all hybrid. Lexus was the first and remains the only manufacturer to offer hybrid models in the segment in Europe, now presenting its second generation model before its rivals manage to bring their first hybrid contenders to the showroom.
4,770mm long x 1,885mm wide (+ mirrors) x 1,685mm high
Wheel and tyre sizes:
18-inch with 235/60 R18 tyres
19-inch with 235/55 R19 tyres.
Improvements over the RX400h include:
* Adoption of the Atkinson combustion cycle
* Cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
* Exhaust Heat Recovery (EHR)
* New Power Control Unit
* Increased front and rear motor torque
* Reduced friction losses in hybrid transaxle
* Eco and EV driving modes
* AI-SHIFT control (Artificial Intelligence – SHIFT)
Total power output is 295bhp (299 DIN hp), enabling a top speed of 124mph and 0 to 62mph acceleration in 7.8 seconds. Conversely, the RX 450h has the lowest fuel consumption of any premium crossover model with a combined cycle figure of 44.8mpg. CO2 emissions are also remarkably low at just 148g/km.
The front drive unit is a series/parallel hybrid system featuring a 3.5-litre V6 chain cam VVT-I petrol engine, a powerful electric motor, a generator, a high performance battery, a power control unit and a power split device with a planetary gear set to combine and re-allocate power from the engine, electric motors and generator as driving conditions require.
The rear unit provides four-wheel drive by means of a second electric motor and is mechanically independent of the front unit. The motor is activated and continuously adjusted by the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, working in conjunction with the power control unit.
The 2GR-FE 3.5-litre (3,456cc) chain-cam DOHC petrol engine is based on that used in the RX 350, but has been adapted specifically for use in the hybrid powertrain. It produces a maximum 246bhp (249 DIN hp) at 6,000rpm and 317Nm of torque at 4,800rpm, and features three Lexus hybrid ‘firsts’ to optimise the fuel efficiency of the Lexus Hybrid Drive: Atkinson cycle combustion, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust heat recovery (EHR).
In an Atkinson cycle engine the valves close late, delaying compression. This creates a high expansion ratio for less compression, reducing intake and exhaust energy losses and converting combustion energy into engine power more effectively. As a result the exhaust temperature is lower than in conventional engines.
EGR reintroduces cooled exhaust gas into the combustion chamber, further reducing the engine’s operating temperatures. Together these technologies minimise the need for any fuel enrichment to provide a cooling effect and protect the catalytic converter from overheating damage, thereby improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.
The EHR system uses exhaust gas heat to warm the engine coolant at start-up. This reduces the time the engine needs to warm up, allowing it to be shut off earlier for longer electric motor-only operation, particularly in winter. As a result, the RX 450h achieves an increase of more than 30 per cent in cold weather fuel efficiency compared to the RX 400h.
The new power control unit (PCU) is smaller and weighs less than before and is equipped with a new inverter. The inverter’s construction allows for cooling on both sides and this better cooling efficiency has helped increase the power density by 40 per cent. PCU power losses have also been reduced by more than 10 per cent to contribute to better fuel economy.
Although power from the front and rear electric motors remains the same as it was on the RX 400h, at 165bhp ( 167 DIN hp) and 67bhp (68 DIN hp) respectively, the improved cooling of the PCU has increased their continuous maximum torque band width. This gives better performance, in particular from a standing start. The front and rear motors now deliver maximum torque of 335Nm and 139Nm from zero rpm respectively, while the range of the front motor’s maximum toque is extended by 9mph and that of the rear by 22mph.
Several improvements have been made to the compact transaxle. An oil slinger has been adopted to reduce drive losses in the oil pump; an oil cooler has been fitted; low friction bearings have been installed at key points; and numerous components have been tuned and re-profiled. These modifications combine to increase torque capacity and overall transaxle efficiency.
An improved flywheel damper, with a two-stage, torque absorbing damper, absorbs torque fluctuations and also the shock of engine stop and start. This significantly reduces vibration and noise, notably in urban driving when the engine stops and starts most often.
Artificial Intelligence AI-SHIFT control has been adopted for the first time on a hybrid vehicle. The system determines whether the vehicle is travelling up or downhill by comparing vehicle speed with accelerator pedal angle. The transmission then selects the appropriate shift range – from third to sixth – to maintain engine rpm at an optimum speed for either uphill acceleration or downhill engine braking.
Sequential shift-matic control is also available, by selecting ‘S’ in the transmission shift gate. In this mode the driver can select any of six speeds to gain more responsive performance, or to add engine braking assistance. The fuel efficiency and performance of the RX 450h’s hybrid drive system are both further improved by the adoption of three new driving modes: ECO, EV and SNOW.
Linked to an indicator in the speedometer, the new ECO mode provides a modified, non-linear throttle action and air conditioning control to support fuel-efficient driving. The relationship between accelerator pedal movement and system output is automatically controlled to reduce throttle response to aggressive driver inputs, improving fuel economy and promoting smoother driving. The air conditioning load on the engine is also reduced sharply under acceleration, further adding to fuel efficiency.
Activated by means of the Multi-information switch on the steering wheel, EV mode allows the RX 450h to be driven under electric motor power alone. This driving mode is not available to drivers of mild hybrid vehicles; it requires a full hybrid technology such as Lexus Hybrid Drive. In EV mode the vehicle can be driven around town with minimal noise and zero emissions, with driving range determined by the level of battery charge. As the petrol engine is switched off, the EV drive mode contributes to a significant reduction in overall fuel consumption.
SNOW mode, also selected with the Multi-information switch, helps modulate use of the accelerator pedal and improve vehicle stability when pulling away on snow or other slippery road surfaces. Pedal inputs are automatically adjusted to reduce driving torque and minimise wheelspin; should there be any wheelspin, the rear electric motor engages to improve traction.
In line with the RX 450hs chief engineer’s vision of ‘Confident Drive’ the RX 450h sets new standards in crossover handling and driving enjoyment. It offers the comfort and composure of a premium saloon, combining responsive handling and agility on winding roads with stable, tenacious four-wheel drive off-road performance.
An all-new bodyshell with high torsional rigidity gives the RX 450h a 20mm increase in wheelbase and 60mm increase in track compared to the RX 400h. Larger, 19-inch wheels improve stability, reduce body roll and contribute to superior NVH performance. The engine is positioned lower, dropping the vehicle’s centre of gravity and improving weight distribution.
The RX 450h has all-new rear suspension and a significantly revised front suspension, which improves its dynamic abilities without sacrificing Lexus’s legendary ride comfort. The design of the rear set-up maximises loadspace volume and practicality. The front MacPherson struts gain new shock absorbers and revised geometry, springs and stabilisers. The diameter of the front anti-roll bar has been increased, improving cornering stability.
The RX 400h’s strut-type rear suspension has been replaced with a new trailing arm, double wishbone configuration that features high-tensile pressed steel components that are lightweight but highly rigid. The system’s wider arm span and rigid trailing arm and carrier joints contribute to a high level of agility and stability, while careful attention to packaging, including locating the springs under the vehicle floor and low, angled shock absorber mountings, minimises suspension intrusion into the luggage floor. As a result the loadspace floor width has increased by 150mm.
January 2011
Lexus has fettled a special Lifestyle version of its RX full hybrid SUV for the some of the rigours of winter with a package of accessories perfectly suited for those who love the great outdoors.
* Special specification for Lexus RX 450h SE-I with package of practical accessories
* Exterior elements include roof rails, front and rear under-runs and rear bumper protector
* Interior features include cool/hot storage box and boot liner
* Value of accessories £1,500 but price premium to customers over standard SE-I model just £499
* Available to order now, from £48,899
On the outside the new Lifestyle model comes equipped with roof rails and a rear bumper protect, plus front and rear under-run plates. Inside there is a tough boot liner ready to cope with muddy boots, plus a refrigerated cool box that can equally keep food and drinks warm when the temperatures plummet. Specified individually, these features would cost up to £1,500, but brought together for the new RX 450h SE-I Lifestyle they add just £499 to the on-the-road price, which is from £48,899.
May 2012
New look for Lexus RX 450h
With higher equipment specifications and a new F Sport model. Styling changes are led by the spindle-shaped grille that is a new trademark element in new Lexus design. In the cabin small but telling tweaks have been made to trim details and the shape and functionality of some of the controls. There is a new steering wheel, incorporating a new selector switch for the hybrid system’s drive modes, and the operation of the Remote Touch controller has been revised so that it works more like a computer mouse. Attention to detail even extends to increasing the opening angle of the centre console box lid to make it easier to reach items inside.
F Sport stands out with a deeper, more vertical front bumper and a dedicated mesh treatment for the upper and lower grilles, which together make the new spindle grille shape an even stronger feature. There are also dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels and F Sport badging on the exterior, while in the cabin the model’s distinctly sporting character is reflected in aluminium-effect sports pedals and trim inserts, F Sport smooth leather upholstery and scuff plates with the Lexus logo in black. There is also a black roof lining and a bespoke steering wheel with a stitched leather trim.
Other equipment features include a head-up display, and LED headlights with the I-AFS adaptive system that angles the light beam in line with the vehicle turning angle through bends and at junctions. The new RX 450h F Sport also offers sharper driving dynamics thanks to a lateral damper system that increases stability and improves ride comfort by absorbing small vibrations.
The system uses a front lateral damper in place of the usual fixed bracing between the left and right suspension towers. A second damper unit is deployed at the rear, connecting each side of the lower back panel. The units are designed like a monotube suspension damper and adjust in line with changes in the body rigidity, noise and vibration of their surroundings to give the best possible absorption of body torsion, flexure and fine vibrations.
The RX 450h gains an additional Sport mode for itsLexus Hybrid Drivesystem. Selecting Sport (using the new drive mode switch on the redesigned steering wheel) modifies the throttle and electric power steering settings to gain faster responses, and also programmes the Vehicle Stability Control and traction control for less intrusive operation, letting the driver fully exploit the car’s dynamic abilities.
The shift to Sport mode is reflected in the ambient illumination of the instrument panel changing to red.Lexus has revised equipment specifications across all RX 450h, in addition to introducing the new F Sport.
The RX 450h SE entry point to the range gains LED daytime running lights, a new perforated leather upholstery and re-designed steering wheel, while the Luxury grade model adopts (in addition to the above) dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels and benefits from an upgrade to its 12-speaker audio system with aDABdigital tuner and single-discDVDplayer.
At the top of the range the RX 450h Premier is newly equipped as standard with a tilt/slide sunroof and head-up display.
Three new exterior colours have been added to the range: Satin Silver, Burgundy Red and Atlantic Blue, available for all versions, including the new F Sport.Two new accessory packs have been introduced for RX 450h, offering a range of practical features and styling elements. The Lifestyle Pack offers front and rear under-run protective plates and roof rails, and the new Protection Pack provides rubber floor mats, protective bumper film, mudflaps and a cargo net.
No changes to the hybrid powertrain. Power output is the same 295HP as before, with emissions of 145g/km. Besides the tweaked styling and improved interior, more standard equipment is on offer, including a new power tailgate and iPod/ Aux in for all models. The new F Sport model gets a very slight power tweak to 300HJ.
August 2014
Lexus RX 450h Advance launched
Lexus has released a new RX 450h Advance, a model with a higher equipment level than before including a Mark Levinson premium 7.1 surround sound system as standard.
Despite the additional benefit of the audio package (that has a £1,000 list price) and a set of new-design machined and shaded 19-inch alloy wheels, the price for the new Advance is unchanged, matching its predecessor at £48,495.
The Mark Levinson system provides exceptional audio performance from its carefully engineered array of 15 speakers, including a 200mm subwoofer. These support an exceptionally wide frequency range to give precise reproduction of vocals and instrumentals.
The package also includes a DVD player rear-view camera and Lexus’s intuitive computer mouse-like Remote Touch audio and navigation control system. Lexus Premium Navigation and Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming are also provided. The price tag also includes the choice of either a sunroof or fixed panoramic roof.
What to watch out for
DO NOT JUMP START. Hybrids should be trickled charged, not jump started (bulletin from Toyota how to do it correctly). If a recovery agent connects jump leads directly to either hybrid battery and then to his battery the sudden charge can damage circuits within the hybrid system (not necessarily the ECU). It seems that not all recovery companies are familiar with the correct jump start process . Damage can be caused which will not be apparent at the time.
20-06-2017:Report of 2012 Lexus RX450h needing a new engine coolant water pump at 60,000 miles at a cost of £1,800 (reduced to £1,200). The engine had to be removed / refitted which was 11 hours labour.
18-12-2017:Report of owner disconnecting 12v battery of 2010 RX450h for two months while he was away. It had been suggested that disconnecting the battery negative lead would conserve battery power. When he returned, he connected up and the engine (hybrid) started but he lost the radio and all the navigation and associated functions. Local independent Lexus dealer was unable to repair and had to supply and fit a complete refurbished unit. This cost £2,450.
11-09-2019:Noises reported from rear seat of 2012 Lexus RX450h when travelling on the slightest of uneven roads almost drowns out the radio (the noise is as if someone is constantly fidgeting on the seat ).
04-10-2019:Report of glass panoramic sunroof suddenly shattering on 2009 Lexus RX450h at 88k miles. Likely that something hit it, set up an un-noticed stress crack, then, when the car suffered a sharp shock from a pothole or a speed hump, the glass shattered.
