Lexus RX Review 2024

The Lexus RX was a trendsetter in the luxury SUV class, being one of the earliest hybrid models available. The latest version of the RX builds on that legacy, with either regular hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains available. It now faces plenty of rivals, though, including the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

In the world of upmarket SUVs, the Lexus RX is one of the longest-serving models around. The first version was launched all the way back in 1998, and we are now enter the fifth generation with this brand-new model. 

Lexus makes big claims for its latest SUV, with the promise of it being completely reinvented and offering a ‘step-change in dynamic performance’. There is the company’s first use of a turbocharged hybrid engine, plus there’s an all-new plug-in hybrid model.

In fact, the entire Lexus RX range is now hybrid-only. Lexus had always been ahead of the curve in terms of hybridisation. A petrol-electric hybrid version of the second-generation Lexus RX was revealed in 2004, making it one of the earliest SUVs to gain electric power. As such, Lexus is arguably the industry-leader in producing hybrid SUVs.

The Lexus RX 350h is now the entry-level ‘self-charging’ hybrid, using the same 250PS 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motors found in the Toyota RAV4. All UK-specification Lexus RX models come with E-Four all-wheel drive, which uses a separate electric motor to power each axle.

At the top of the range is the high-performance 371PS Lexus RX 500h. This has the new turbocharged 2.4-litre engine and, somewhat unusually for a hybrid Lexus, comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. The other two Lexus RX models have a continuously variable auto transmission (CVT) – as used in Toyota/Lexus hybrid vehicles for decades.

Sandwiched between the two regular hybrids is the first Lexus RX plug-in hybrid. The Lexus RX 450h+ boasts 309PS, and uses an 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack to drive up to 43 miles on electric power alone. This ability, and the correspondingly low official CO2 emissions figures, make the Lexus RX 450h+ very attractive to company car drivers.

Even though Lexus has promised a change in dynamics, on the road the Lexus RX cannot match the level of engagement found in its closest rivals. There is plenty of grip, and a low centre of gravity dictates that it should be able to corner with gusto. However, body-roll is less contained than in a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne, meaning keener drivers will be likely to back-off from more committed progress. This is despite a ride quality at the firm end of the scale, although it never gets uncomfortable.

In truth, the Lexus RX is best enjoyed as a luxury SUV above all else. This starts with door handles that open electrically, instead of mechanically, and continues with an interior trimmed in plush materials. Even entry-level Premium Pack versions feel suitably upmarket on the inside, while the range-topping Takumi is genuinely quite special.

Levels of standard equipment are also strong. Combined with the Lexus RX’s competitive pricing, this makes it good value for money. Only a smaller boot than other hybrid-powered SUVs is likely to be an issue for those considering a Lexus RX.

Beyond that, this is a hugely impressive luxury SUV, with efficient hybrid powertrains adding to the sense of serenity inside.

Despite dramatic looks on the outside, and the promise of a rewarding driving experience, the Lexus RX is not going to be the most sporting SUV on the market. A BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne will offer keen drivers much more engagement from behind the wheel.

The Lexus RX’s steering is nicely weighted, with more than enough feedback. Lexus RX 500h models come with four-wheel steering, intended to improve agility. The effect is less noticeable compared to other SUVs, but does help make the 2200kg Lexus RX feel more nimble than it might appear.

Counteracting all this is a higher degree of body-roll higher than would be expected. The level of lean is likely to make a driver back off in tighter bends, even though the Lexus RX will gamely cling on. F Sport models are more accomplished here.

The ride quality also feels at the firmer end of the SUV spectrum, but Lexus has still managed to isolate the worst bumps and ruts from reaching the cabin.

Every version of the fifth-generation Lexus RX features a petrol engine combined with hybrid electric propulsion. It means buyers simply need to pick between whether they want a regular ‘self-charging’ hybrid, or a plug-in hybrid model.

The Lexus RX 350h kicks off the range, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors. With a motor on each axle, it means the 350h, like all Lexus RX models, comes with standard all-wheel drive. A combined output of 250PS helps the Lexus RX 350h accelerate to 62mph in 7.9 seconds, and is very adequate for everyday driving.

The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid uses the same 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, along with a dual electric motor setup. Due to the way the hybrid system works together, peak power is 309PS. This is reflected in the 0-62mph time: now just 6.5 seconds. Everything feels more immediate, thanks to the input of the electric motors.

Charging the 18.1kWh battery pack in the Lexus RX 450h+ should take around three hours, making use of a 7kW home charging wallbox.

The Lexus RX 500h is pitched as the performance model, being offered solely in F Sport trim. A 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol makes 272PS alone, resulting in a total of 371PS when combined with the more powerful electric motors. This reduces the 0-62mph time to 6.2 seconds.

In contrast to the other two engines, both of which use CVT gearboxes, the Lexus RX 500h comes with a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. However, both setups are smooth and refined, suiting the nature of the Lexus RX. And all three engines emphasise just how quiet the Lexus is when running in EV mode.

Despite being so new, the latest Lexus RX has already undergone crash testing by the Euro NCAP organisation. It received the maximum five-star rating, with an impressive 90 percent score for adult occupant protection, and 87 percent for child occupant protection.

Helping the Lexus RX towards this feat is the comprehensive suite of safety equipment fitted to all models. The Lexus Safety System+ includes a pre-collision warning system, radar cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and road sign assist.

Lexus RX models beyond the base Premium Pack version gain an extended safety system, with lane-change assist and front cross-traffic alert.

The Lexus RX is a sizable SUV, and will therefore appeal to those who need it for practical purposes. As such, it could become a popular towing vehicle.

All versions of the 2023 Lexus RX are capable of towing a braked trailer weighing up to 2000kg. This includes both the hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

As a sizable luxury SUV, expectations are likely to be high when it comes to practicality. In reality, this is something of a mixed bag, with other rival SUVs able to deliver more usable space overall.

Still, the Lexus RX offers more than sufficient room to accommodate five people inside. Those in the front get a particularly good deal, with the wide cabin augmented by plenty of headroom and legroom. Even the back seats can seat six-foot adults in comfort, although adding a third person to the rear bench will feel more of a squeeze.

Boot capacity is where the Lexus RX lags behind the leaders in the luxury SUV class. With its rear seats in place, the Lexus RX can carry 461 litres of luggage when filled to the load cover. For comparison, an Audi Q7 TFSI e hybrid is able to swallow 650 litres, with a BMW X5 accommodating 500 litres.

At least the Lexus RX comes with an electrically-opening tailgate as standard, with higher-spec versions benefiting from a ‘kick sensor’ that operates by detecting your foot beneath the bumper.

Lexus has spent decades refining how to create a high-quality interior, and the Lexus RX reflects that learning. It starts with the E-Latch exterior door handles, which use an electronic release instead of a mechanical opening.

Nothing inside the Lexus RX feels cheap or built to a cost. From the glovebox to the centre console, everything reinforces the idea of quality. Lexus has resisted the urge to use a touchscreen for the climate control system. Instead, there are a pleasing number of tactile rotary dials.

Takumi models feel even more plush, thanks to their semi-aniline leather upholstery, which is offered in a choice of colours.

All versions of the Lexus RX come equipped with a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen as standard. This widescreen setup manages to pack a lot of information into the display, but the sheer size of Lexus RX’s cabin can make it feel like a stretch to actually reach.

Previous Lexus RX models made use of a touchpad mounted on the centre console to help navigate the various infotainment menus. Now there is a reliance on steering wheel-mounted touchpads, combined with the touchscreen itself, to find the function you need. At least the setup is logical in its design, and it should become more intuitive with familiarity.

Satellite navigation and wireless smartphone charging, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, are all included. Models in Premium Pack Plus trim and above also benefit from a useful head-up display.

The standard 12-speaker sound system is good, but the 21-speaker Mark Levinson setup is seriously impressive. Takumi grade is needed to unlock this option, however.

Prices for the Lexus RX start at just over £62,000 for the 350h Premium Pack model. With a 100 percent hybrid model range, a direct comparison with rivals is a little harder. However, a new BMW X5 starts at around £68,000, whilst an entry-level Porsche Cayenne requires a minimum of £67,000.

Moving further up the range, the plug-in hybrid Lexus RX 450h+ starts from £67,000. The equivalent Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid is pricier at more than £76,000, but it does offer up more horsepower.

For the range-topping Lexus RX 500h, bank on needing at least £77,000. The optional Takumi Pack adds an extra £5,000 to the price of this most expensive Lexus RX.

Efficiency is the core aim of Lexus RX’s hybrid powertrains, and they do not disappoint.

The regular hybrid Lexus RX 350h delivers an official WLTP combined fuel consumption figure of between 44.1mpg and 44.8mpg. Given the size and weight of the vehicle, this is quite a feat, and reflects the value of the hybrid drivetrain. Check out our Real MPG submissions to see if the Lexus RX can match this on the road.

With more power, the Lexus RX 500h is less efficient, with official fuel economy of around 35mpg. Again, this is respectable for a performance SUV with more than 370PS, so running costs should be manageable.

With a plug-in hybrid system, the Lexus RX 450h+ scores a sky-high official WLTP consumption figure of 256.8mpg. In reality, achieving this will require keeping the batteries regularly topped up. When the battery is depleted, the Lexus RX attempts to recharge as much as possible by using regenerative braking.

Driven in electric-only mode, the Lexus RX 450h+ can officially travel up to 43 miles.

When it comes to VED (vehicle excise duty, or road tax), there is a clear difference between the two hybrid powertrains. The regular hybrid Lexus RX 350h will cost £245 for its first year, followed by £560 for each of the five years thereafter. A Lexus RX 500h is more expensive, at £1030 in the first year.

However, the plug-in hybrid tech of the Lexus RX 450h+ means it qualifies for zero VED in the first year. It will also appeal to company car drivers, thanks to a low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate of just 8 percent.

The Lexus RX comes with a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty as standard. However, Lexus will extend this warranty for up to 10 years, providing the vehicle continues to be serviced annually at an official Lexus dealership.

Lexus topped the 2023 Honest John Satisfaction Index, being ranked as the UK’s most reliable car brand.

The Lexus RX comes with a comprehensive range of standard equipment, helping support the premium price charged for this luxurious SUV.

The range opens with the Premium Pack, available for the Lexus RX 350h and RX 450h+. This includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with automatic main beam, roof rails, privacy glass and a powered tailgate.

On the inside of the Lexus RX Premium Pack you’ll find three-zone climate control, single-colour ambient lighting, keyless entry and wireless smartphone charging. The seats are finished in Tahara synthetic leather trim, with the front pair being heated and featuring electric adjustment.

A 14-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard, with satellite navigation, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity. A total of six USB connections can be found throughout the cabin,

Moving up the Premium Plus Pack adds extra equipment to the Lexus RX 350h and RX 450h+, starting with 21-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic view monitor, 64-colour ambient lighting and a powered tailgate with kick sensor.

The interior benefits from seats finished in smooth leather, with the front pair ventilated as well as heated. A leather steering wheel is also included, along with a head-up display and a host of extra safety equipment.

The top trim for the Lexus RX 350h and RX 450h+ models is Takumi specification. Included here is a panoramic sunroof, adaptive variable suspension, a rear sunshade and an automatic parking system.

Semi-aniline leather is used for the upholstery, with the steering wheel upgraded to become a wood and leather item. The rear seats gain heating and electrical adjustment, while there is also a powerful 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

F Sport trim is offered solely for the Lexus RX 500h. A bespoke F Sport bodykit is the most obvious difference, along with 21-inch alloy wheels, black brake callipers and black window-surround trim.

Other features include adaptive variable suspension, active sound control, automatic and remote parking, and F Sport smooth leather upholstery.

A Takumi package can be added to the F Sport version, bringing the Mark Levinson sound system and upgraded rear seats to the racier-looking Lexus RX.