Car Review: 2013 Lexus RX 450h Hybrid

THE 2013 LEXUS RX 450h HYBRID REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: Worth the Price of Admission

The 2013 Lexus RX 450h Hybrid SUV combines best-in-class fuel economy with the features and upscale materials that consumers expect from a luxury SUV, making this a desirable green-friendly choice. With room for five inside its spacious passenger cabin, the RX450h is an outstanding candidate for family transportation and a solid, fuel-efficient performer for the daily carpool or commute.

Under the hood
The Lexus RX 450h SUV combines a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electric motors for the front-wheel drive version and three motors for the all-wheel drive. This combination can produce up to 295 horsepower, enough to propel the RX 450h from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 7.6 seconds. The continuously variable-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to work with the hybrid engine and provides superior gas mileage for this luxury vehicle. City fuel economy is estimated at 32 miles to the gallon; highway mileage is lower at 28 miles per gallon. (See estimated annual fuel costs with the RX 450h). Antilock brakes, air bags, the Lexus Safety Connect emergency communications system, and stability and traction controls are all standard on the Lexus RX450h SUV.

Inside the cabin
The interior of the 2013 Lexus RX 450h hybrid SUV is spacious and comfortable, providing ample room in both the back seat and the cargo area. Exquisite material choices are evident throughout the vehicle and create an atmosphere of luxury and impeccable taste inside the cabin. Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, power lift-gate, full power accessories, heated mirrors, and automatic headlights. Entertainment features include a nine-speaker CD stereo system with iPod and USB interfaces. Options for the RX450h include sunroof, leather upholstery, and voice-controlled navigation system.

(See 80+ images of the 2013 Lexus RX 450h).

On the road
The 2013 Lexus RX 450h offers a smooth, comfortable ride with enough pickup to manage highway merges and most city driving conditions. This luxury SUV features superior handling and comfort with a well-insulated, quiet passenger cabin. Drivers looking for a little extra power may want to opt for the new Sport mode and its more aggressive performance on the road.

Conclusions
While the entry fee is relatively steep, the ride quality and fuel economy of the 2013 Lexus RX 450h make this hybrid SUV worth the extra money. Ideal for family transport or for business commuting, the RX 450h makes the right impression in the driveway and at the fuel pump.

Details:
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6 hybrid with two or three electric motors
Horsepower: 295 hp
Transmission: FWD or AWD continuously variable-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 32/28
0 to 60: 7.6 seconds
Base MSRP: $45,910

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