2020 Lexus RX Hybrid Performance

The 2020 Lexus RX Hybrid delivers terrific fuel efficiency and provides a cushioned ride over just about any road surface. Its hybrid powertrain is energetic enough for driving around town and on the highway, and the handling of this Lexus is generally composed. As long as you aren't expecting to carve corners, the RX Hybrid shouldn't disappoint you.

• "The 2020 RX models should hit the road in fall 2019. The update keeps intact its smooth powertrain options and even improves its comfortable, quiet ride." -- CNET
• "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)

Acceleration and Power

The Lexus RX 450h features a 3.5-liter V6 engine and three electric motors that combine to produce 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission comes standard. This powertrain won't blow you away, but it has enough juice for city and highway driving, and it doesn't feel overburdened by the RX Hybrid's hefty curb weight.

According to EPA estimates, the RX Hybrid returns 31 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Those are some of the best ratings in the class. The long-wheelbase RX Hybrid L is rated at 29/28 mpg city/highway.

• "Powertrains remain the same as last year. … Neither powertrain feels particularly eager to move the RX quickly, even while using the newly standard paddle shifters, but we found the hybrid to be more engaging to drive despite our previous test results showing that it is the slower of the two models." -- Car and Driver
• "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 (2019)
• "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)

Handling and Braking

The RX Hybrid delivers a superb ride, soaking up road imperfections easily. However, that comfort comes at the expense of athleticism, as this Lexus doesn't handle as well as some of its class rivals. There's also noticeable body lean when taking turns at speed. Still, it manages to feel composed most of the time. For slightly better performance, check out the RX Hybrid F Sport, which features a few upgrades, like a sport-tuned suspension. All-wheel drive comes standard in all RX Hybrid models.

• "Lexus says that the 2020 RX has a much stiffer structure, stiffer anti-roll bars, and retuned dampers and springs for an overall firmer suspension. We couldn't notice any marked differences versus the 2019 model on the supersmooth Costa Rican roads. There's still a good amount of body roll in corners and basically zero steering feedback, but the RX is nicely composed and super quiet." -- Car and Driver
• "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 (2019)
• "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)