2019 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2019 Lexus RX Hybrid boasts excellent fuel efficiency and provides a cushioned ride over any road surface. Its hybrid powertrain is energetic enough for driving around town and on the highway, and handling is generally composed.

• "With the F Sport package teamed to the hybrid platform, the RX becomes a performance SUV with exceptional handling and fuel-economy numbers of which its rivals can only dream." -- Kelley Blue Book (2017)
• "It's a hybrid that doesn't draw attention to itself, and that's a good thing. The fact that you can now enjoy the hybrid's fuel economy benefits with the F Sport's superior driving dynamics makes the 450h even more appealing." -- Edmunds (2016)
• "Smooth, solid and quiet. If it isn't exactly fast, the 2016 RX is lively enough to occasionally encourage its driver to push." -- Autoweek (2016)

Acceleration and Power

The Lexus RX 450h features a 3.5-liter V6 engine and three electric motors that combine to produce 308 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (which functions like an automatic) comes standard. This isn't the fastest SUV in the class, but it has enough power and acceleration for any driving situation, and the transition between electric and gasoline power is smooth.

The RX Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which are some of the best fuel economy estimates in the class.

• "The hybrid powertrain includes a stout 3.5-liter V6 engine, and the system delivers seamless acceleration in all conditions. Its 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.2 seconds is a bit slow for the segment but actually a couple of tenths quicker than the RX 350." -- Edmunds
• "The RX 450h hybrid combines an electric motor with the V6 delivering even more horsepower and torque with superior fuel economy." -- Kelley Blue Book (2017)
• "[The hybrid powertrain is] … a smooth setup that Toyota has perfected over the years, and fuel economy remains right around 30 mpg, which is impressive considering the hybrid model's hefty curb weight of 4,600-4,700 pounds -- about 350 pounds more than the RX 350. The hybrid's instantaneous torque makes it feel a bit quicker than the standard V-6, meaning the newly available F Sport hybrid is less of a contradiction than you might think." -- Automobile Magazine (2016)

Handling and Braking

Ride quality is the priority here, and the RX Hybrid delivers. It soaks up road imperfections, providing you with a comfortable driving experience. All-wheel drive is standard.

This relatively heavy SUV won't blow you away with its handling chops, but it feels stable on winding roads and doesn't lean too much around turns. Although it's still not a true athlete, the F Sport trim feels more buttoned down.

• "It feels coordinated and secure in most situations at civilian speeds, with moderate body roll. But the extra weight from the hybrid system is apparent if you hustle it on winding roads." -- Edmunds
• "Changes were made to the suspension and drivetrain as well, but the 2017 Lexus RX 350 remains a luxury SUV that places an emphasis on comfort and confidence over blistering performance. We're not saying the Lexus can't handle tight turns or twisting back roads, but if you're seeking razor-sharp reflexes, a step up to the F Sport trim is in order." -- Kelley Blue Book (2017)
• "Its steering is nicely balanced, but it feels slow to react. In normal driving through parking lots and on interstate roads, it won't be an issue, but when trying to negotiate switchbacks or mountain twisties, it becomes more apparent." -- Cars.com (2016)