The Lexus RX 450h, specifically the V6 variant producing 313 horsepower, represents Lexus’s entry into the luxury hybrid SUV market. Produced from 2015 to 2019 as part of the fourth generation (RX IV) of the RX line, this model (chassis code AL20) aimed to combine the brand’s renowned refinement with improved fuel efficiency and all-weather capability. It sits within the broader RX family, positioned as the flagship hybrid offering, above the RX 350 and below potential future performance-oriented trims. The RX 450h utilizes Lexus’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, a sophisticated full hybrid architecture designed for seamless transitions between gasoline and electric power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX IV |
| Type (Engine) | 450h V6 (313 Hp) Hybrid E-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2019 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3-5.5 l/100 km (44.4 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.9 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 288 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 167 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (1) | 335 Nm (247.08 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 68 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (2) | 139 Nm (102.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 313 Hp |
| Power | 262 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 335 Nm @ 4600 rpm (247.08 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FXS |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.1 l (10.67 US qt | 8.89 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2100-2155 kg (4629.71 – 4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2715 kg (5985.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560-615 kg (1234.59 – 1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 539 l (19.03 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1612 l (56.93 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2180 mm (85.83 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2790 mm (109.84 in.) |
| Front track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1020 mm (40.16 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, electric motors drive front and rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The RX 450h’s powertrain centers around the 2GR-FXS 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct injection and port injection for optimal efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 262 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 247 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. It features a dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) system, controlling both intake and exhaust valve timing for improved performance across the rev range. The engine is paired with Lexus’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which incorporates two electric motor-generators. Motor MG1 primarily functions as a generator, while MG2 provides drive power and regenerative braking. The e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) seamlessly blends power from the engine and electric motors, offering a smooth and linear driving experience. The nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, located under the rear seats, provides 1.9 kWh of gross capacity.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 450h delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The e-CVT, while not offering the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic, provides smooth acceleration and efficient power delivery. The combined output of 313 horsepower provides adequate performance, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.3 seconds. Compared to the RX 350 with its conventional automatic transmission, the 450h feels more responsive at lower speeds due to the instant torque from the electric motors. However, the RX 350 generally offers slightly quicker acceleration at higher speeds. The all-wheel-drive system provides confident handling in various weather conditions. The hybrid system prioritizes electric-only driving at low speeds and during gentle acceleration, contributing to improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 450h typically came well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a navigation system, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety technologies like Lexus Safety System+. Optional extras included a Mark Levinson premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated front seats. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the model year, but generally included base, Luxury, and F Sport packages, with the F Sport offering a more aggressive appearance and sport-tuned suspension.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 450h utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a double wishbone suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness. All four wheels feature ventilated disc brakes, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution are standard features. The RX 450h’s weight, ranging from 2100 to 2155 kg (4629.71 – 4750.96 lbs.), is higher than the RX 350 due to the added weight of the hybrid system components.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RX 450h was generally well-received by critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. It consistently ranked highly in hybrid SUV comparisons. Compared to the RX 350, the 450h offered significantly better fuel economy, but at a higher initial price. The 450h also appealed to buyers seeking a more environmentally friendly vehicle. Reliability was generally excellent, consistent with Lexus’s reputation. Some critics noted the e-CVT could feel less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission.
Legacy
The Lexus RX 450h (2015-2019) established itself as a popular and reliable luxury hybrid SUV. The powertrain, while complex, has proven to be durable, with many examples exceeding 150,000 miles with minimal issues. The hybrid system’s longevity is aided by the robust design of the electric motors and the relatively simple e-CVT. On the used car market, these models continue to hold their value well, attracting buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and luxurious SUV with a proven track record. The RX 450h paved the way for subsequent generations of Lexus hybrids, solidifying the brand’s commitment to electrification.
