The Lexus RX 450h, specifically the facelifted third-generation model produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant evolution in Lexus’s hybrid SUV offerings. Positioned as a premium mid-size crossover, the RX 450h combined the luxury and refinement expected of the Lexus brand with the fuel efficiency benefits of a full hybrid powertrain. This variant, equipped with the 299 horsepower hybrid system and e-Four all-wheel drive, was a key model in the RX lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated and environmentally conscious vehicle. It built upon the success of the earlier RX 400h, refining the hybrid technology and enhancing the overall driving experience within the broader RX III (AL10) platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | RX |
| Generation | RX III (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 450h (299 Hp) Hybrid e-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.9 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 288 V |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery weight | 69 kg (152.12 lbs) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 167 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 355 Nm (261.83 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 | 299 Hp |
| Power | 249 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 317 Nm @ 4800 rpm (233.81 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FXE |
| 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 | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110-2205 kg (4651.75 – 4861.19 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs) |
| Max load | 495-590 kg (1091.29 – 1300.73 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 446 l (15.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1570 l (55.44 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 | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2120 mm (83.46 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2740 mm (107.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1030 mm (40.55 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | An Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. There is an ability for running in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Lexus RX 450h (facelifted 2012-2015) is a luxury hybrid SUV that builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessors. It represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation RX 450h, incorporating styling updates, technological enhancements, and refinements to the hybrid powertrain. This model year saw improvements to the vehicle’s infotainment system, exterior aesthetics, and interior materials. The RX 450h’s e-Four all-wheel-drive system, combined with its hybrid drivetrain, provided a unique blend of efficiency and all-weather capability, making it a popular choice in markets where both are valued. It competed directly with other luxury crossovers like the Acura RDX, BMW X3, and Audi Q5, but distinguished itself through its standard hybrid powertrain.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RX 450h is Lexus’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system. This system combines a 3.5-liter 2GR-FXE V6 gasoline engine with two electric motor-generators. The engine produces 249 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 233.81 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine utilizes a DOHC valvetrain with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) and multi-port fuel injection. The first motor-generator (MG1) functions primarily as a generator, converting mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy to charge the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. The second motor-generator (MG2) provides propulsion to the front wheels and also acts as a regenerative braking system, capturing energy during deceleration to recharge the battery. A third electric motor powers the rear wheels, providing on-demand all-wheel drive. The e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) seamlessly integrates the power from the engine and electric motors, optimizing efficiency and performance. The battery pack, located under the rear seats, has a gross capacity of 1.9 kWh and a voltage of 288V.
Driving Characteristics
The RX 450h delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. The e-CVT provides seamless acceleration, although it lacks the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic transmission. The combined output of the engine and electric motors results in a total system output of 299 horsepower. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.4 seconds. The electric motors provide instant torque, contributing to brisk off-the-line acceleration. The e-Four all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the standard RX 350, the 450h offers quieter operation, especially in electric-only mode at lower speeds. While not a sports SUV, the RX 450h provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 450h typically came well-equipped with standard features including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system. Available options included a navigation system, Mark Levinson premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally included base, Premium, and Luxury packages. The Luxury package added features such as semi-aniline leather, wood trim, and advanced safety technologies. Interior color options typically included black, gray, and beige. The dashboard layout was characterized by a clean and elegant design, with a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The RX 450h features a robust chassis designed to handle the added weight of the hybrid powertrain. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension employs a double-wishbone setup, also with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy during deceleration, increasing efficiency. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus RX 450h was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the e-CVT could feel less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. Compared to the RX 350, the 450h offered significantly better fuel economy – around 37.3 US mpg combined – but came at a higher price point. The RX 450h also offered a more refined driving experience than some of its competitors, such as the Acura RDX. Reliability was a strong point, with the Lexus brand consistently ranking high in consumer surveys.
Legacy
The Lexus RX 450h (2012-2015) remains a popular choice in the used car market, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system has proven to be durable and long-lasting, with many examples exceeding 150,000 miles without major issues. The NiMH battery pack typically lasts for 8-10 years or 100,000-150,000 miles, and replacement costs can be significant, although prices have come down in recent years. The RX 450h’s blend of luxury, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and environmentally conscious SUV.
