2024 Lexus RX450h+, Perfecting the Plug-In Experience

The 2024 Lexus RX450h plug-in hybrid gets around town using only electrons thanks to its potent 97-horsepower electric motor. The motor allows for silent and emission-free driving for over 30 miles on a single charge.

But when you need a kick of acceleration, the 2.5-liter gas engine combines with the e-motor to offer a total stout 308 horsepower. This duo moves the RX swiftly when passing or merging onto highways.

Lexus offers the RX450h with either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, allowing you to choose between slightly better efficiency or extra traction depending on your needs and driving conditions.

The lithium-ion battery pack powering the e-motor is a generous 18.1 kWh in size. This allows the RX to travel solely on electricity for an estimated 36 miles according to the EPA.

Underneath the hood sits a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder gasoline engine that acts as a generator when the battery runs low. It’s a refinement found in many Lexus hybrids, delivering smooth and silent operation.

Driving the Lexus is a serene experience, as one would expect from this luxury brand. The transition between electric and gas power is seamless, allowing you to concentrate on the journey instead of the powertrain.

Bursts of low-end electric torque from the e-motor give the RX quick and effortless acceleration from a stop. This makes for a relaxing driving experience around town.

When lifting off the accelerator, the RX engages the regenerative braking system to recapture kinetic energy as electricity. The slowing feels completely natural just like normal engine braking.

Tested: 2024 Lexus RX450h+ Serves as Plug-In Practice

Inside, the RX greeted drivers with a serenely luxurious cabin complete with soft-touch materials, stitched leather, and high-end fittings. This exemplifies Lexus’ reputation for comfort and refinement.

An eight-inch center touchscreen comes standard, displaying the latest Lexus infotainment system. This features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

For a more premium experience, an optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is available. This screen sits behind the steering wheel and can be customized with different gauge layouts.

Front passengers will find comfortable seats featuring available heating, cooling, and massage functions. Second-row riders are treated to generous legroom and reclining seat backs.

While the third row is best used only for small children or infrequent use, its accessibility is improved over other hybrids through Lexus’ clever seat-folding design.

Cargo space takes a small hit compared to non-hybrid RX models due to the packaging of the large battery underneath the floor. The space is still respectable for lightly loaded weekend errands.

Out on the road, the standard all-season tires deliver a smooth yet still controlled ride quality over humps and dives. Steering feedback remains light yet connected to inspire confidence in corners.

Standard driver-assist technology includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. These systems allow for more relaxed long-distance highway commutes.

From a top-view camera to power-folding third-row seats, desirable luxury options range far to help personalize the RX experience. Audiophiles will appreciate available Mark Levinson audio.

Turning the wheel-mounted paddles adjusts the level of regenerative braking from light to heavy when rolling off the throttle. Finding the preferred setting is customizable to each driver.

A convenient charge port located high on the fender ahead of the driver’s door makes plugging in easy from either side of most charging stations. Public charging takes special adapters.

Using a typical 240-volt home charger cuts the time needed to replenish the big battery to a mere 2.5 hours. This makes overnight charging very practical for most daily electric commutes.

However, real-world all-electric driving distances will usually be somewhat less than the EPA estimates depending on factors like temperature, passengers and cargo loads as well as driving styles.

As the battery level decreases, so does the ability to run solely on electricity. But the range never drops too low, as the engine helps preserve charge by powering the drivetrain directly or charging the battery.

In hybrid mode, Lexus claims over 48 mpg combined is possible. But fuel sip will fall the emptier the battery gets after using only electric power for maximum available miles.

Tested: 2024 Lexus RX450h+ Serves as Plug-In Practice

Both gas and electric motors provide acceleration seamlessly when needed. This gives the RX ample power easily merging onto fast expressways or climbing steep grades using both power sources.

Adding the pounds of a large battery and accompanying electric motor means the RX plug-in weighs around 500 pounds more than the gas-only model. Most drivers likely won’t notice.

Pricing kicks off at $61,000 including destination charges for the front-wheel drive RX 450h. All-wheel drive adds only $2,000 making it very affordable for a luxury plug-in hybrid SUV.

While no longer the bargain it was among the first PHEVs, and the RX still undercuts rivals from BMW and Acura in most trim levels. Its drivability and efficiency make it a sensible green luxury upgrade over purely gas models.

Using only electric power, the RX serves well for commutes and errands under 40 miles on a single charge. Beyond that, its gas engine keeps you moving without range anxiety.

As with all Lexus vehicles, you can count on the highest quality interior materials, attention to build detail, niceties like available premium audio, and industry-leading warranty protection.

Resale values for the luxury brand are among the strongest too, minimizing depreciation costs over time. Combined with cheap fuel and no engine emissions, total ownership costs stay very low for a Lexus.

With looks that don’t sacrifice style for efficiency, range to cover most daily needs electronically, plus the reliability and smooth operation synonymous with the brand, the 2024 Lexus RX 450h plug-in hybrid strikes an ideal balance.

Advanced driver assist systems allow confident travel, while standard Apple and Android integration keeps drivers entertained and connected on the go. A versatile luxury commuter for the modern electric era from a trusted luxury name.

A few plugin hybrid crossovers deliver the completeness of the package found here. It proves electrification of luxury vehicles need not come at the expense of comfort, performance, or dependability.

The RX plug-in hybrid shows the future of green transportation can still indulge us with refinement and opulence, without the range and cost compromises of earlier electric vehicles.

With hybrid powertrains becoming ever more seamless and capable, drivers may find less need than ever to choose between helping the Earth or pampering themselves inside.

2024 Lexus RX450h+ First Test: Plus Performance

Lexus’ expertise in smoothness and engineering resilience shines through, giving RX owners electric miles, gas miles, or a blend of both, all while feeling spoiled in rich Nappa leather.

As charging networks spread and batteries evolve, PHEVs will continue bridging our present roads to a zero-emissions future. The RX leads the luxurious way.

For luxury SUV buyers seeking the pinnacle of hybrid polish and a reasonable ability to leverage cheaper electric driving, the RX Plug-In remains king of the eco-friendly hill.

With pampering luxury, effortless efficiency, and the backing of Toyota’s vaunted reputation, the 2024 Lexus RX 450h shows plug-in possibilities need not come at the cost of versatility or visa-versa.

It truly feels like a showcase of how readily hybrids can serve as sensible solutions for most drivers – especially those who can also plug in occasionally and appreciate the indulgence of an electrified Lexus.

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