2013 Lexus RX 450h

Lexus struck gold when it released the first RX in the late 90’s, pioneering the small, luxury SUV segment…and to this day it remains their best-selling vehicle by almost a 2-to-1 margin.  The hybrid version came along in 2005 and for 2013, the RX 450h receives a host of styling, mechanical and interior updates to keep consumers interested until a redesigned RX arrives in 2014.

Acquiring the family face of other recently restyled Lexus models, the RX sports a new front fascia, LED daytime running lights, updated tail lamps and a variety of new colors including this attractive Deep Sea Mica.

After spending a week with this chock full hybrid I was reminded why the RX continues to be a consumer favorite.  Its friendly size, comfortable seats, easy to use interior features and all-wheel drive capability create a welcoming hand shake.  While most choose the gas powered RX 350, those with deeper pockets and a mind for green causes will be attracted to this model’s 30mpg city/28mpg highway rating…a 40% improvement in around the town driving.  The pros: On average, you’ll spend $500 less on gas per year, you can travel over 450 miles on a tank even though the tank itself is smaller, and there’s more muscle from the powertrain…295 total system horsepower- leading to quicker acceleration.  Its 0-to-60mph time is a very respectable 7.4 seconds.  The cons: the initial outlay starts at $6,600 more, the fuel requirement goes from regular to premium and for as well as Lexus has done at integrating its electric motors, the hybrid driving experience simply can’t match the smoothness of a good ole gas V6 and 6-speed auto.

This all-wheel drive example use 2 electric motors for propulsion, 1 of which is dedicated to the rear wheels when the vehicle’s front tires start to loose traction.  They get their power from nickel – not lithium ion batteries, while the Lexus hybrid drive system determines when to let the 3.5-liter V6 in on the action which works through a continuously variable transmission.  Forced electric operation is available in select situations.  (Stand-up 2)

You have to hunt through menus on the multi information display to find them, but these tailored choices add some variety.  The new sport mode increases steering effort and provides more urgency to throttle input and transmission shifting.  You’ll also see the hybrid meter light change from Eco blue to Sport red.  You may want to resist the temptation however, as I averaged only about 24mpg and didn’t even spend much time in the red.  These optional 19” wheels and Dunlop low rolling resistance tires look great but didn’t help the ride quality any which was not nearly as soft as it should be.

The interior is perfectly sized for those with no need for a 3^rd row with a flat floor that helps in seating 3 across the back and a generous 80 cubic feet of cargo room with the seats folded.  A power liftgate and heated steering wheel with its awkwardly positioned button are some new additions this year while the high tech Lexus Enform system also receives new features.  Safety offerings are extensive and include 10 standard airbags and the convenience of intuitive parking assist.  Well stocked, this RX 450h AWD goes from about $48,000 base to around $58,000 as seen here.