The new RX is a big car for Lexus – in every sense, says John Challen.

Road Test: Lexus RX 450h+

Here in the UK, it’s often difficult to comprehend the impact that the Lexus RX has had on the brand since it was introduced in 1999. The SUV has sold more than 3.5 million units, some 57,000 of which have been in the UK. For 2023, the company has unveiled the all-new model, the line-up of which includes the fleet-friendly 450h+ plug-in hybrid.

Lexus says there were five key focus areas for the new RX, which is ‘95% new’: packaging; design; powertrain; driving experience and cabin quality. The packaging improvements include more legroom (up 10mm), a longer (+50mm) boot and a lower centre of gravity, boosting both driver comfort and also practicality.

The design is dominated by a new larger front grille and a sleek appearance, which – thankfully – doesn’t impact on rear headroom. There’s an extensive range of colour options, including the popular new addition of ‘Sonic Copper’!

The RX is offered in 350 and 500 form, as well as the 450h+, but the mid-spec hybrid is going to be the dominant seller, accounting for 55-60% of RXs on the road. Lexus argues that there are very few E-segment BEVs around and the combustion-engined models are still the dominant player in the sector, hence no full EV offering. Instead, the RX is the Japanese manufacturer’s second PHEV, after the NX, which shares the same powertrain. That means a 2.5-litre petrol engine and 182hp electric motor, providing a combined 309hp and 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds. The electric-only driving range is between 40-43 miles, with CO2 emissions of 25-26g/km (100g/km in the previous car). All of which helps to give a stated fuel economy figure of 235.4 -256.8mpg.

Lexus knows that those figures are not likely to be achieved, but believes the stated EV range is enough for many commutes and journeys made by drivers. The 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in around 2.5 hours, when equipped with the RX’s 6.6kW onboard charger.

There are three grades in the new RX lineup: Premium; Premium Plus and Takumi. Standard on the base Premium model are 19-inch wheels, blind spot monitor, 14-inch touchscreen heated front seats and wireless charging. Premium Plus (set to account for 65% of RX orders) adds in bigger wheels, an upgraded safety package, leather seats and steering wheel, head-up display and a panoramic roof. Finally, the flagship Takumi model features adaptive variable suspension, an upgraded Mark Levinson sound system, heated rear seats and remote parking.

The RX is one of those cars that does everything very well. To start with it’s a lovely place to be – Lexus has upped its interiors game – but on the road it is comfortable, with ample performance for a big car. The steering, brakes and dynamics are all decent, although we were driving the Takumi spec, so lower grades might create a different experience. At 35 miles, the indicated electric range was slightly down on the 40 miles suggested, but it was accurate on our journey. Once exhausted, the CVT creates a little noise, but the cabin is mostly serene, providing a comfortable driving experience.

IN BRIEF

WHAT IS IT?  E-Segment SUV

HOW MUCH?  From £64,950 (350h from £59,950)

ECONOMY?  235.4-256.8mpg

EMISSIONS?  25-26g/km

Key fleet model:  Premium Plus

Pros: Interior quality; electric driving range

Cons: Competitive segment; no BEV option

Seven-word summary: An impressive addition to the Lexus line-up

Also consider: BMW X5 / Mercedes-Benz GLE / Range Rover Sport