Lexus Provides PHEV to RX Lineup

One of many first luxurious crossover SUVs in the marketplace when it was launched roughly 25 years in the past, the Lexus RX has lengthy been the best-selling mannequin within the luxurious model’s lineup. Final 12 months, Lexus got here to market with the all-new fifth-generation RX that featured contemporary styling and a variety of recent options. Now, Lexus is including the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) RX 450h+ to the RX lineup.

Not like a conventional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid electrical automobile can cost from an exterior charging supply and may journey a big distance on electrical energy alone.

Lexus already provides the RX with two totally different hybrid powertrains, together with the potent 366-horsepower setup that motivates the high-performance RX 500h F Sport, however the RX 450h+ is the primary plug-in hybrid RX. Although it has much less horsepower than the RX 500h F Sport, this latest entry prices extra and is the costliest mannequin within the RX vary. In some states, the value distinction could also be partially offset by the supply of tax credit or different plug-in automobile buy incentives.

Powering the brand new RX 450h+ is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine teamed with two electrical motors for a complete output of 304 horsepower. Energy is directed to the street by way of an electronically managed all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize torque steadiness from entrance to again, relying on the driving circumstances. Lexus says the RX PHEV will attain 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. That’s a good determine; nonetheless, for a lot of patrons, this SUV’s fundamental draw will doubtless be its gas effectivity.

The EPA hasn’t launched figures but for the 2024 RX 450h+, however Lexus estimates that the plug-in hybrid can journey as much as 37 miles on electrical energy alone with a completely charged battery. Lexus claims this SUV returns 83 MPGe in mixed driving utilizing simply electrical energy. The mileage estimates are 33 mpg on the freeway, 36 mpg in metropolis driving and 35 mpg mixed when working with the gasoline engine in use.

The RX encompasses a J1772-type cost port, permitting it to be charged from a family 120-volt outlet or a 240-volt Stage 2 charging station. Utilizing the latter, the RX 450h+ can obtain a full cost from empty in about two and a half hours with the 6.6-kW onboard charger.

Like the remainder of the RX lineup, the brand new 450h+ plug-in hybrid options the acquainted spindle grille properly built-in into the bodywork with a extra vertical presence than the earlier technology RX. This contemporary design offers higher airflow to the engine and provides the RX a contemporary look. That is additional enhanced by the slim LED headlights with fashionable daytime working lights. LED taillights wrap across the corners with a outstanding LED gentle bar that spans the rear hatch, giving the RX the looks of a large stance. Commonplace 21-inch 20-spoke alloy wheels with a darkish metallic end preserve this Lexus related to the street.

The RX 450h+ has simply a few styling options that set it aside from the remainder of the RX lineup. Along with the 450h+ label on the again of the plug-in hybrid, there is a cost port on the fitting rear fender.

Lexus provides the RX with grades starting from Premium to Luxurious, with the brand new RX 450h+ coming commonplace with the Luxurious grade of apparatus. This features a cabin trimmed in semi-aniline leather-based, heated and ventilated seats in back and front, a heated steering wheel trimmed in leather-based and wooden, a panoramic glass sunroof and ambient lighting.

The RX additionally will get a normal 14-inch high-definition touch-screen show with the newest model of the Lexus infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto join wirelessly, and the cabin has a number of USB ports. Lexus additionally provides an out there 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Encompass Sound system.

Like the remainder of the RX lineup, the 450h+ comes commonplace with Lexus Security System+ 3.0, which equips the plug-in hybrid with the newest superior driver-assistance expertise. Options embody automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise management, lane-departure warning and lane-keep help.

The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ is accessible now with a base value beginning at $68,730.