The Lexus RX 500h is a particularly sporty hybrid.

Under the sporty shell – which in the case of the 500h is particularly sporty as it is only available in the F-Sport variant – there are three engines at work: a 2.4 liter turbo petrol engine and an electric motor on each axle. Together they produce up to 371 hp. As usual with Toyota and Lexus, short distances can be completed electronically only;

The F-Sport equipment lives up to the name of the Lexus RX 500h: it has particularly sporty characteristics.
Photo: Lexus

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However, the 500h variant was not only designed to save fuel, but also to give Lexus customers who are used to paying for a performance option. That’s why the Japanese have moved away from the standard hybrid, the continuously variable CVT transmission, which still produces the dreaded rubber band effect. Instead, a six-speed automatic transmission is used, which enables quick acceleration without resistance, without the petrol engine reaching high-speed (and loud) areas.

Enhanced visibility in the Lexus RX 500h

As befits a luxury sedan, the Lexus RX 500h is understated, but very modern. Not only silent driving in EV mode is suitable for this, but also excellent noise insulation. When it comes to suspension, the 500 is also more suited to the comfort-conscious driver – but if he’s in a hurry, it might be more than enough for him.

A great atmosphere in the cockpit of the Lexus RX 500h with a large screen.
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Various safety aids monitor the driver, vehicle and other road users. Electronic door opening, which controls access to the car instead of conventional door handles, may at first seem like a great example of over-engineering, but it provides an important innovation: it prevents door accidents with cyclists coming from behind, because on-board electronics are in a way that prevents the door from opening.

Safety assistance in the Lexus RX 500h can be annoying

The assistant’s weapon needs to be used carefully, otherwise the ears of the residents will ring: the traffic signal assistant, for example, announces three beeps when the speed limit exceeds one kilometer / h – and very often they think that the speed limit is incorrect. Fortunately, most warning systems can be reduced audibly or tactilely or even turned off completely.

Without invasive assistants, there is a luxurious atmosphere in the cockpit, the choice of equipment and quality is, as always with Lexus, without exception excellent. The steering, on the other hand, is less obvious at first glance;

A six-speed automatic transmission in the sporty Lexus RX 500h replaces the CVT transmission.
Photo: Lexus

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The price list does not leave any secrets open: the 500h costs at least 92,500 euros, and everything is included except for the panoramic glass roof, the interior package and, among other things, a high-quality sound system and folding rear seats by electricity. and metallic paint.