2026 Lexus RX review

If an NX is too small for your Lexus plug-in hybrid (PHEV) needs, theRXis your only other option.

The RX PHEV? Don’t worry, it’s understandable if it’s flown under your radar. Nestled in Lexus’ SUV lineup, just below the beastly, Land Cruiser-based LX, this plug-in hybrid offers a different kind of luxury.

While the NX and LBX SUVs currently outsell it, the RX remains a strong contender in Lexus’s lineup. However, when luxury SUV shoppers open their wallets, they often bypass Lexus, drawn instead to the siren song of BMW’s performance, Land Rover’s rugged appeal, or Mercedes-Benz’s prestigious aura.

The RX is therefore a bit of an underdog, particularly in the PHEV guise you see on test here.

The RX blends into the SUV landscape like a chameleon, its design hardly daring. Underneath its familiar skin, it’s surprisingly relatable, sharing DNA with Toyota’s workhorses: the ever-popular RAV4, the family-friendly Kluger, and even, surprisingly, the Camry.

Step into a world where the [Car Model Name]’s powertrain joins an elite club. Think suave BMW X5, tech-forward Audi Q8, rugged Land Rover Defender, posh Range Rover Velar, understated Volkswagen Touareg, and safety-conscious Volvo XC90. They’ve all embraced the electric surge, proving that power and responsibility can share the road.

Even within the broader RX lineup, the plug-in hybrid model stands out, outselling both purely gasoline versions. And while trailing the traditional hybrids, its performance is striking, especially considering its position as the second-priciest option.

Launched in Australia in 2022, the fifth-generation RX made waves, but a key piece was missing: the plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Finally arriving in April of this year, the PHEV joins a lineage stretching back to 1998. However, this latest RX breaks with tradition, ditching the V6 engine and the seven-seat configuration of its predecessor.

Behold the 2026 Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury AWD, a plug-in hybrid anomaly. Despite its eco-conscious powertrain, this PHEV paradoxically carries a higher price tag than the ferocious RX500h F Sport Performance. Go figure.

Lexus breaks new ground, unleashing its first-ever plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a bold move in a powertrain arena still largely uncharted by both Lexus and Toyota.

Is this a sweet spot in the plug-in hybrid catalogue of Lexus?

How much does the Lexus RX cost?

There’s only one PHEV version available for the Lexus RX, and it’s priced at$123,500 before on-road costs.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2026 Lexus RX350h Luxury 2WD | $93,285 | | 2026 Lexus RX350h Luxury AWD | $96,950 | | 2026 Lexus RX350 F Sport AWD | $100,950 | | 2026 Lexus RX350 Sports Luxury AWD | $106,950 | | 2026 Lexus RX350h Sports Luxury AWD | $116,850 | |2026 Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury AWD|$123,500| | 2026 Lexus RX500h F Sport Performance AWD | $130,950 |

As mentioned, there are more direct rivals than you may expect.

Plug-in hybrid SUVs are hitting the sweet spot of luxury and eco-consciousness, but which one reigns supreme? Prepare your wallets: the BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport cruises in at $153,600, just nudging ahead of the Audi Q8 TFSI e S line at $154,284. Looking for something rugged? The Land Rover Defender 110 P300e muscles its way onto the scene for $131,100, while its sleeker sibling, the Range Rover Velar PHEV P400e, offers a touch more elegance at $125,511. The Volkswagen Touareg R throws its hat in the ring at $133,490, and the Volvo XC90 Ultra PHEV quietly impresses at $130,990. (All prices exclude on-road costs). The question is, which of these electrified titans deserves your garage space?

Forget sticker shock. The RX450h+ delivers plug-in hybrid prowess without breaking the bank. While some competitors offer budget-friendly PHEV trims, our comparison tool unveils the definitive value champion. See how it stacks up!

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

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What is the Lexus RX like on the inside?

Certainly luxe, and seemingly well-considered.

The Lexus cabin whispers luxury, not shouts it. A gentle current of design carries your eye from door to door, a seamless experience orchestrated through carefully chosen materials and flowing shapes. It’s a space where beauty isn’t just skin deep, but deeply intertwined with intuitive functionality and serene comfort.

Dive into a world dominated by a unified color scheme, where darkness reigns supreme. But this isn’t just any darkness; it’s a carefully curated symphony of shadows. Think supple black leather whispering luxury, juxtaposed against the tactile allure of suede. Gaze upon the rich woodgrain panelling, its deep hues adding warmth to the cool ambiance. Even the minimalist piano black surfaces contribute, reflecting light like polished obsidian. Prepare to be captivated by a dark aesthetic that’s anything but monotonous, a visual feast for the discerning eye.

The cabin whispers luxury, a testament to thoughtful design. Gunmetal accents subtly gleam, while suede caresses the door panels. Every detail justifies the investment, marrying premium aesthetics with effortless functionality.

The cabin’s centerpiece is undeniably the expansive infotainment display, seamlessly embedded within a glossy piano black panel that gracefully flows into the instrument cluster. However, this technological showcase stumbles slightly; its graphics, strikingly similar to those found in mainstream Toyota models, lack the bespoke feel one expects at this level.

The interface is thankfully intuitive and snappy, boasting wireless Apple CarPlay (though Android Auto remains tethered). However, the aesthetic feels… Toyota-esque. A touch of Lexus luxury – a bespoke skin, perhaps – would elevate the experience. Similarly, the climate control, while largely digital and functional, feels like a direct transplant from a more pedestrian model. Those two nearly-analog temperature dials are a welcome touch, but overall, the system lacks the premium feel one expects.

The knobs could offer a more satisfying click, but their digital displays are a visual treat. The climate controls are cleverly persistent too, even when Apple CarPlay takes center stage.

The steering wheel buttons? Deceptively sleek. Theylooklike tactile perfection, but yield to a mere touch. Lexus, in a quest for minimalist chic, masks a labyrinth of controls beneath a deceptively simple facade. Want to tweak what those D-pads do? Just tap the broad, almost clandestine buttons flanking either side. It’s a digital treasure hunt right at your fingertips.

Forget intuitive interaction. These controls are like grumpy toddlers – demanding multiple prods before acknowledging your existence. Sure, there might be hidden functions lurking within, but frankly, we’d trade sleek minimalism for the satisfying click of dedicated buttons any day. Give us function over form; uncluttered is overrated when it means wrestling with unresponsive tech.

The instrument display, though sharp, hides a labyrinth of menus. Navigating it, especially with the sometimes-unresponsive haptic buttons, feels less like intuitive control and more like a digital treasure hunt where the map is missing.

Even the door handles offer a surprising twist. Forget traditional levers; Lexus employs sleek, electric "e-latches" that require a gentle press, not a pull, to grant you entry. They’re instantly intuitive, quickly becoming second nature, though the initial encounter might feel delightfully unconventional.

Sink into a realm of pure indulgence. The seats aren’t just seats; they’re thrones of comfort, swathed in a luxurious blend of supple leather and velvety suede. Heated, ventilated, and expertly bolstered, they cradle you in blissful support. Finding your perfect driving position is effortless thanks to a vast array of electric adjustments, while the cockpit’s driver-centric design offers a uniquely satisfying sense of command.

You’ll also notice black woodgrain inserts on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, which we like, even if they’re a little over-the-top.

The RX’s steering wheel? A sculpted pleasure to grip, feeling perfectly proportioned for a vehicle of its size. It anchors a driving position that feels inherently right. Everything falls effortlessly to hand, a cockpit designed for intuitive control, not awkward reaches.

Cleverly concealed storage solutions abound within the cabin’s embrace. Beyond the expected glovebox and cavernous door pockets ready to swallow water bottles whole, a plush, shared central armrest performs a neat trick: it swings to cater to either driver or passenger, unveiling a surprisingly generous storage bin beneath.

Nestled within the console, past a sleek sliding door just ahead of the cupholders, lies a secret stash of connectivity. Forget fumbling with cords – a wireless charging pad awaits your phone, keeping it powered and out of sight. Need more juice? A quartet of ports – three USB-C and one USB-A – plus a classic 12V outlet stand ready to power all your devices. It’s discreet, organized, and keeps your eyes on the road.

Everywhere you glance inside, a detail awaits – the hallmark of a meticulously crafted Lexus. No gaudy displays here, just refined excellence. And the 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system? Prepare for an auditory experience that redefines "immersive."

Slide into the RX’s second row and you’ll discover a surprisingly spacious haven. The perfectly judged floor height and wide door opening practically invite you in. Once settled, you’re greeted by seats swathed in the same luxurious leather-suede blend as the front, offering a level of support that belies their bench-like appearance.

The seats embrace you, bolstering confidence as you carve through corners – a welcome change from the typical SUV slide-and-pray routine. Rear passengers enjoy limousine-like space, though the middle seat occupant might draw the short straw thanks to a modest floor hump.

Rear passengers are treated like royalty with a personal climate command center, twin USB-C charging ports elegantly integrated into the console, and the blissful luxury of both heated and ventilated outboard seats.

The interior culminates in a plush, central armrest, complete with cupholders. Retractable sunshades offer respite from the sun’s glare. Above, a panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with light, defying the darkness of the headliner and creating an unexpectedly spacious atmosphere.

Lexus remains strangely silent on the RX’s boot capacity. But numbers aside, stepping back, the cargo area whispers of spaciousness. Visually, it dwarfs the X5’s claimed 500 litres and flirts brazenly with the Touareg R’s cavernous 810-litre hold.

While the RX boasts a sleek, coupe-like profile, that stylish roofline nibbles into vertical cargo space compared to its more conventionally shaped competitors. Fear not, loading everyday essentials remains a breeze. The cargo floor is thoughtfully positioned for easy access, and the standard powered tailgate transforms loading from chore to convenience.

Transform your cargo space with the touch of a button! Electric switches effortlessly fold the rear seats flat, unlocking a cavernous area for all your gear. Road trip on the horizon? A conveniently placed 12V outlet is ready to power a travel fridge, ensuring cold drinks and snacks are always within reach. Strategically located cargo hooks and tie-down points keep everything secure, while hidden under-floor cubbies swallow up loose items and unruly charging cables, maintaining a clutter-free zone.

The result is a ruthlessly practical space. Ditching the spare tire for a standard repair kit carves out every last inch.

| Dimensions | Lexus RX450h+ | | — | — | |Length| 4890mm | |Width| 1920mm | |Height| 1695mm | |Wheelbase| 2850mm | |Cargo capacity| – |

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

Beneath the sculpted hood of the Lexus RX PHEV lies a 2.5-litre four-cylinder heart, naturally aspirated and eager. But this isn’t your grandfather’s hybrid. Lexus has cleverly integrated a Continuously Variable Transmission, housing within it a potent 134kW/270Nm electric motor. The result? A combined system output that surges to 227kW, offering exhilarating performance. Lexus remains tight-lipped about the total torque, preferring to let the driver experience the seamless blend of power firsthand.

| Specifications | Lexus RX450h+ | | — | — | |Engine| 2.5L naturally aspirated 4cyl | |Engine outputs| 136kW/227Nm | |Electric motor outputs| 134kW/270Nm | |System outputs| 227kW | |Battery| 18.1kWh li-ion | |Transmission| CVT | |Drive type| All-wheel drive | |Kerb weight| 2200kg | |0-100km/h (claimed)| 6.5s | |Fuel economy (claimed)| 1.3L/100km | |Fuel economy (as tested)| 5.4L/100km | |Energy consumption (as tested)| 22.1kWh/100km | |Electric driving range (PHEV, NEDC)| 85km | |Fuel tank capacity| 55L | |Fuel requirement| 95-octane premium unleaded | |CO2 emissions| 29g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 6 | |Braked tow capacity| 1500kg |

Juice up the RX450h+ effortlessly! Its 7kW onboard charger offers flexible charging options. At home, a standard Type 2 cable at 10A fills the battery in approximately 7.5 hours. Need a quicker boost? Plug into a public 32A charger and be road-ready in just 2.5 hours.

The car devoured highway miles this week, punctuated by quick sprints through the city’s concrete jungle. We also unleashed its inner beast at the Lang Lang Proving Ground for a video review on the childcareman.xyz YouTube channel, pushing it to its limits.

"While a portion of our less-than-stellar fuel economy can be attributed to these factors, achieving the manufacturer’s advertised efficiency with any PHEV in real-world driving often feels like chasing a mirage."

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How does the Lexus RX drive?

The Lexus RX doesn’t chase lap times; it perfects pampering. Its luxury pedigree isn’t about roaring engines or razor-sharp handling, but about delivering an oasis of serene comfort on four wheels.

Lexus RX350 F Sport

"It performs with polished assurance. The ride quality eclipses most competitors, leaning toward a firmer feel that imparts a reassuring sense of solidity. Lexus’s engineering prowess shines through, delivering predictable handling and banishing any unsettling surprises."

Beyond the badge, the Sports Luxury trim unlocks a world of adaptable comfort. Imagine gliding over imperfections thanks to the standard adaptive suspension, a noticeable upgrade from the fixed feel of lesser models. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about control. With each drive mode selection, the suspension dynamically adjusts, transforming from a cloud-like daily ride to a sharpened, road-hugging experience at your command.

The RX’s ride, while comfortable, doesn’t offer the granular suspension tuning found in pricier competitors – a subtle compromise for a smoother, more accessible driving experience.

That translates to an SUV that shrugs off city potholes with ease. Its steering offers a reassuring weight, inspiring confidence whether you’re threading through narrow lanes or conquering a concrete jungle of a parking lot.

Punching the RX into Sport mode tightens the reins, adding welcome heft to the steering and a more planted feel. Sure, it’s still a substantial SUV, but dare to lean into a corner and you’ll be surprised by how well it holds its composure. Body roll is kept neatly in check, rewarding you with unexpected agility.

Glide through city streets in near silence. The RX’s electric power whispers instead of roars, leaving room for unwanted road sounds. But don’t expect a noisy intrusion; masterful cabin insulation creates a serene experience, making urban driving surprisingly peaceful.

The car intelligently favors electric power, especially at slower speeds or during relaxed freeway cruising. You might detect a subtle hum when the 2.5-liter engine gently awakens, but similar to its NX450h+ sibling, the cabin remains remarkably serene.

The RX delivers exactly the kind of polished experience you’d anticipate from a top-tier Lexus. Don’t mistake this for blandness, though. Unleash the throttle, and the serene SUV transforms into a surprisingly swift performer.

Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury

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The surge of acceleration is genuinely startling, a defying contradiction to its considerable size and composed presence. Yet, this unleashed power remains seamlessly refined; gear changes are imperceptible, the transition between electric and combustion power utterly fluid.

Forget lag. The electric motor punches you forward the instant you breathe on the accelerator. No waiting for combustion, no hesitant downshifts just pure, immediate thrust.

Forget paddle shifters that promise F1 thrills. These are mere window dressing. Instead of harnessing regenerative braking for true one-pedal driving, they simply nudge the CVT through a series ofpretendgears – a disappointing gimmick.

Engine braking and a quick burst of power aren’t the only tricks up the RX’s sleeve. Sure, it’ll happily bleed off speed going downhill or slingshot you past that slow-moving truck, but its electric heart is always working. Think of it as a silent partner, constantly topping off the battery without demanding your attention. Forget endless fiddling – buttons are there if you crave pure electric serenity or want to hoard energy. Otherwise, just drive.

Once underway, the RX sheds its initial intimidation. It anticipates your needs, becoming an extension of your will. Even those downsizing from a compact will find its dimensions surprisingly manageable; threading it down tight lanes feels less like navigating a behemoth and more like guiding a sure-footed steed.

Still on the fence? Picture this: the RX450h+ boasts a crystal-clear view of the world around you, thanks to its arsenal of high-resolution cameras. Need to navigate a ridiculously tight parking spot? Just tap the button below the infotainment screen and banish parking anxieties forever. It’s like having a personal spotter in your luxury SUV.

Adaptive cruise control with lane-tracing transforms freeway driving into a near-effortless experience. While it occasionally approaches tighter curves with the caution of a cautious driver, its overall performance in mirroring traffic flow is remarkably smooth and reliable. Imagine gliding along, the car subtly managing speed and lane position, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.

The Toyota hesitates. A heartbeat of lag follows lane changes, a familiar quirk demanding a tap-dance on the throttle to truly unleash its overtaking prowess.

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

There are four distinct trim levels in the local Lexus RX range.

Lexus RX350h Luxury

2025 Lexus RX Luxury equipment highlights:

• Bi-LED headlights
• LED daytime running lights, fog lights
• Heated exterior mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming
• Rear privacy glass
• 19-inch alloy wheels with bright machined finish
• Roof rails
• Power tailgate
• 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wired Android Auto
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• 12-speaker Panasonic sound system
• Satellite navigation
• DAB+ digital radio
• Lexus Connected Services
• Five x USB-C outlets, two x 12V, one x USB-A
• 8-way power front seats with two-way power lumbar
• Heated front seats
• Leatherette upholstery
• Tri-zone climate control
• Power-adjustable steering column
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• Paddle shifters
• Ambient lighting

RX F Sport adds:

• 21-inch gloss black alloy wheels
• Bi-LED headlights

• BladeScan technology
• Adaptive high-beam
• Dynamic auto-levelling
• Cornering lights
• Headlight cleaners

• F Sport exterior appearance package with unique bumpers, grille
• Adaptive suspension
• Aluminium monobloc six-piston calipers
• Hands-free power tailgate
• Surround-view camera
• Dimpled leather-wrapped steering wheel
• F Sport scuff plates
• F Sport shifter
• F Sport instrument cluster
• Heated and ventilated front sport seats
• Aluminium pedals
• Easy access driver’s seat
• Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls
• Multi-colour ambient lighting
• 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system
• Active Noise Control
• Wireless phone charger
• Rear door sunshades
• Smart key card

Sports Luxury

RX Sports Luxury adds (over Luxury):

• Bi-LED headlights with adaptive high-beam
• 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels
• Surround-view cameras
• Adaptive suspension
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system
• Active Noise Control (RX350 only)
• 10-way power front seats with semi-aniline leather upholstery
• 4-way lumbar support and memory
• Heated steering wheel with woodgrain trim
• Power-folding and reclining rear seats
• Heated and ventilated outboard rear seats
• Panoramic sunroof (RX450h+ only)
• Digital rear-view mirror (RX450h+ only)
• Semi-autonomous parking assist (RX450h+ only)

RX500h F Sport Performance adds (over F Sport):

• Enhancement Package(s)
• Matte black 21-inch alloy wheels
• Black aluminium monobloc front calipers
• Piano black bumper side moulding
• Body-coloured rocker trim
• Active Sound Control
• Dynamic Rear Steering

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Is the Lexus RX safe?

The Lexus RX: Awarded a coveted 5-star ANCAP safety rating in 2022. Drive with confidence knowing every model, including the plug-in hybrid, is engineered for exceptional protection.

| Category | Lexus RX | | — | — | |Adult occupant protection| 90 per cent | |Child occupant protection| 89 per cent | |Vulnerable road user protection| 89 per cent | |Safety assist| 93 per cent |

Standard safety equipment includes:

• 8 airbags
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Driver attention monitoring
• Emergency steering assist
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Intelligent parking assist
• Intersection collision avoidance support
• Lane departure warning
• Lane Tracing Assist (lane centring)
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Safe exit assist
• Speed sign recognition
• Surround-view camera
• Tyre pressure monitoring

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How much does the Lexus RX cost to run?

Drive worry-free with your Lexus RX, backed by a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Keep it purring with servicing every 12 months or 15,000km – whichever milestone arrives first.

| Servicing and Warranty | Lexus RX450h+ | | — | — | |Vehicle warranty| 5 years, unlimited kilometres | |Battery warranty| 10 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 3 years (Lexus Encore) | |Service intervals| 12 months or 15,000km | |Capped-price servicing| 5 years or 75,000km ($695 each) | |Total capped-price service cost| $3475 |

Lexus PHEV owners can breathe easy: their high-voltage battery is covered for five years, mileage be damned. Want a decade of worry-free driving? Simply get your battery’s health checked annually, adhering to Lexus’s precise specifications, and they’ll tack on an extra five years of warranty coverage.

Owning an RX unlocks three years of Lexus Encore membership – your passport to perks like a complimentary loaner car, ensuring uninterrupted luxury even when your vehicle’s in for service.

To see how the Lexus RX stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury

The RX450h+ is, without a doubt, deserving of its flagship PHEV status.

Forget flashy contenders and overstated extravagance. This SUV quietly masters the art of the everyday drive, acing the fundamentals with surprising finesse. If you’re hunting for a luxury SUV that balances capability and comfort, look no further – you might just find perfection in its understated competence.

Let’s be real, the fuel economy might notexactlymatch the brochure, but honestly, who cares? We’re talking about amassiveSUV here, and itstillsips fuel better than a bunch of smaller, everyday cars. And let’s face it, those promised gas mileage numbers on plug-in hybrids? They’re usually pure fantasy anyway.

Forget the usual suspects. While BMW and Land Rover still beckon with their familiar allure, a compelling contender has emerged: the Lexus RX. The addition of a PHEV powertrain isn’t just a tweak; it’s a quantum leap, transforming the RX into a formidable challenger poised to redefine the luxury SUV landscape. The Europeans should be worried.

Step into the RX450h+ and discover a sanctuary where serene comfort meets exhilarating performance. Yes, it asks for more than its NX sibling, but the reward is a driving experience elevated to a higher plane. Think of it as an investment, not just in luxury, but in tranquility and effortless power. And the best part? Its remarkably low running costs make this attainable piece of Japanese automotive art a joy to own, day after day.

childcareman.xyz can save you thousands on a new Lexus RX. Clickhereto get a great deal.

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