Grand Styling in a Premium Plug-in Hybrid SUV
Lexus gives a number of hybrid choices with the RX 350, 450, and 500, every various in dimension, efficiency, and value. Clear Fleet Report just lately spent per week with the 2025 RX 450h+ Luxurious AWD plug-in hybrid, which upheld the Lexus premium status whereas delivering outstanding hybrid gasoline economic system.
Energy and Effectivity
The 2025 RX 450h+ Luxurious AWD is a plug-in hybrid electrical car (PHEV). It contains a 2.5-liter non-turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two electrical motors (entrance and rear), producing a mixed 304 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque. When utilizing 91 octane gasoline, it achieves a formidable 35 mpg in each metropolis and freeway assessments and may journey 37 miles on electrical energy when totally charged. The general effectivity ranking is 83 MPGe, a measure evaluating vitality consumption to gasoline.
Lexus’s hybrid system is among the many greatest examined, providing clean transitions between gasoline-only, electric-only, and mixed operations. Throughout our overview, the system constantly offered ample energy whereas attaining a mean of 36.2 mpg over 255 miles. Be aware that these numbers are based mostly on the reviewer’s expertise and should range for different drivers.
Energy is delivered to all 4 wheels by way of a repeatedly variable transmission (CVT), permitting acceleration from 0-60 mph in about 6.2 seconds. Whereas CVTs are usually not favored for efficiency, Lexus has optimized its design for on a regular basis driving, enabling seamless merging into freeway site visitors. Below exhausting acceleration from a cease, the 4-cylinder engine might produce a noticeable roar, however this can be a minor level given its total quietness throughout common driving.
Dealing with
Lexus has engineered the RX 450h+ to supply glorious dealing with whereas making certain consolation on highways. The SUV contains a MacPherson strut entrance and multi-link rear suspension, which minimizes physique roll and maintains stability for the 4,810-pound car.
The digital energy steering supplies good street suggestions, and the SUV’s 235/50 all-season tires on strong 21-inch alloy wheels guarantee dependable cornering grip whereas sustaining a quiet journey. Braking efficiency is stable and constant.
Exterior Refinement
The RX 450h+ underwent vital redesign for its fifth technology in 2023, persevering with to be refined for the 2025 mannequin yr. It has shed 198 kilos in comparison with its predecessor by the usage of extra aluminum and high-strength metal, enhancing each security and car rigidity.
The up to date Lexus spindle grille is now smaller and extra built-in into the car’s design. Lexus claims that the brand new vents on the decrease entrance fascia optimize airflow across the tires, enhancing straight-line stability.
Redesigned Inside
Because of an extended wheelbase and wider physique design, the inside is extra spacious, providing further rear legroom and cargo capability.
The dashboard is intuitively organized with quick access to controls, together with a 14-inch shade multimedia touchscreen for navigation, a backup digital camera, and multimedia options akin to SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Mark Levinson encompass sound audio system boasts 1,800 watts and 21 audio system, with Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free calling. Voice instructions could be activated by way of a steering wheel-mounted button by saying “Hey Lexus.”
Further expertise and comfort options embody a head-up show, wi-fi telephone charging, six USB retailers, an influence rear liftgate with a kick sensor, and customizable ambient lighting to reinforce the cabin environment.
The Luxurious trim consists of semi-aniline leather-based seats, complemented by wooden accents, brushed aluminum, soft-touch supplies, and ornamental prime stitching. These components contribute to an elevated feel and look all through the RX 450h+ cabin.
Security
The RX is supplied with a complete suite of superior driver help methods (ADAS), anchored by the Lexus Security System+ 3.0, which features a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise management with lane tracing help, and varied different warning methods. Further security options embody airbags, a tire strain monitoring system, a collapsible steering column, an anti-theft alarm, and engine immobilizer.
Pricing
The bottom value for the 2025 RX 450h+ Luxurious AWD plug-in hybrid begins at $73,960, which features a supply, processing, and dealing with charge of $1,250. Elective packages and particular person equipment will incur further prices.
Observations: 2025 Lexus RX 450h+ Luxurious AWD Plug-In Hybrid
Lexus is conscious of the RX’s significance, constituting about 55% of the model’s SUV gross sales. Many RX homeowners additionally return for one more Lexus, prompting the corporate to strategy updates cautiously in the course of the 2023 redesign.
On account of this technique, the RX 450 didn’t seem in 2023, as Lexus waited to debut the 450h+ AWD in 2024. Now in 2025, each hybrid and plug-in hybrid variations can be found, offering a premium five-seat SUV that balances efficiency and gasoline effectivity.
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Story by John Faulkner. Photographs by John Faulkner and Lexus.
Disclosure
Clear Fleet Report evaluates autos by a week-long check drive, with out addressing long-term reliability or whole possession prices. We’re additionally invited to producer occasions which will embody complimentary transportation or refreshments. We try for unbiased critiques, targeted on autos with the very best gasoline economic system throughout varied classes.
Our emphasis is on superior expertise and various gasoline autos, alongside environment friendly gas-powered automobiles. We welcome suggestions from car homeowners and purpose to offer a platform for numerous views. Share your ideas at writer@cleanfleetreport.com.
