1. Exterior
The original Lexus RX 4×4 was rather handsome, but a bit of a wallflower, but its replacement is the complete opposite. Few could call it pretty, but it certainly stands out, if not always for the right reasons. It’s immediately identifiable as a Lexus hybrid, with its chrome trimmings and silver and blue badging.
2. Interior
It’s a little more conventional in the cabin, but although built to an impeccable standard, it doesn’t make you feel as special as when you’re sat in either aBMW X5 or Mercedes ML. The command screen will be familiar to anyone who’s driven a Lexus, or an upmarket Toyota, and works slickly and intuitively. Lexus has moved the iDrive-type interface used to operate ancillary controls to the next level, with an ergonomically-designed ‘mouse’. It takes a little getting used to, but works very well.
3. Practicality
The Lexus RX 450h should offer plenty of space for most owners, but its 496 litre boot lags behind its rivals because of the location of the battery packs beneath the boot floor. There’s lots of space for occupants too, and the rear seats slide back and forth to maximise leg room of boot space. Visibility is good thanks to large mirrors.
