2022 Lexus RX450h Model Review

The Lexus RX was launched back in 1997 as the very first premium crossover on the market. It turned out to be a huge hit and it launched Lexus into the stratosphere.

25 years later, the RX is known as a fashion statement, which oozes practicality, reliability, and efficiency.

It has been bestowed with countless awards from journalists and it is one of the finest choices in the highly competitive class.

The RX450h, which is its hybrid model, is regarded as a sophisticated CUV that goes easy on the fuel budget. So, how well does it do in the RX catalog?

Well, the following are some of the highlights of the 2022 Lexus RX450h:

Features

The 2022 Lexus RX450h represents the 4th generation of the acclaimed RX series.

Lexus has made some upgrades for the 2022 model year update. They include exterior changes – LED fog lights that modernize the vehicle and new color options that offer more personalization.

The 450h has a whole suite of safety features along with other luxury amenities.

Because it’s the entry-level hybrid model, it combines a great mix of features and offers them at an affordable price tag.

Powertrain and Numbers

Powered by a 259-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, the 2022 Lexus RX450h has a combined output of 308 horses and 247 torques when the engine pairs with a pair of electric motors and a 1.872kWh battery. CNET has praised the RX hybrid’s “smooth powertrain”.

Due to this configuration, the 2022 450h accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds. Edmunds says that the powertrain is able to provide a “seamless power delivery.”

But despite being a luxury car, it isn’t afraid to get its hands dirty.

The max towing capacity goes up to 3500 pounds and it can haul up to 1257. You can hence expect it to be a helpful companion on road trips.

The fuel economy has also received substantial praise.

According to the EPA, the RX450h 2022 can do up to 31 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, giving it a range of 516 miles. Unsurprisingly, it is the most fuel-efficient RX ever.

Interior and Technology

Cabin

The interior of the 2022 Lexus RX 450h is a carefully crafted symphony of modern technology and luxurious comfort.

Autotrader has described the interior as the “plushest and most meticulously crafted in its class”.

Everything from the choice of materials and textures to the ergonomics and comfort works in harmony to provide an unforgettable ride.

The 2022 RX450h’s legroom and headroom are remarkable, allowing it to seat 6 occupants with ease.

Storage

There are ample cubbies for in-cabin storage but the large trunk is the selling point here. It can handle up to 16 cubic ft of storage, expandable to 32.6 cubes by folding the second row. These are some of the best numbers in the category.

Amenities

A variety of luxury features are included in the model.

The seats and upholstery are covered in synthetic leather. You also get leather shift knobs and steering wheels. You also get textured trim pieces made of wood and metal.

Among the standard tech are dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated 10-way front seats, a power liftgate, and a moonroof.

You get an 8-inch touchscreen mated to a sound system with 9 speakers. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, as well as several power outlets and USB ports.

Also included in this trim are a vast number of safety features.

You get adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic detection, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, etc.

Exterior and Driving

Looks

The 2022 Lexus RX 450h is a vehicle that stands out from the crowd with its sleek and modern design. Its looks describe it quite well – as a sharp and futuristic vehicle.

The 450h differentiates itself from the base model with its LEDs, 18-inch alloys, and rear spoiler.

Its exterior colors are Eminent White Pearl, Atomic Silver, Nebula Gray Pearl, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Nightfall Mica, Nori Green Pearl, Ultra White, and Grecian Water

Drive

The RX model has been described as a capable daily driver by everyone who’s driven it.

As established above, the RX hybrid is a quick vehicle. Motor Trend magazine has noticed this in its review, calling the car “energetic” and that it “felt agile” to drive.

The handling is also superb according to online reviews. Edmunds has lauded the 2022 RX hybrid’s “impressive cornering stability” while Car and Driver likes the “Sport and Sport+ settings,” as they enhance its steering abilities to an even higher level.

As always, the RX offers a smooth ride no matter the road you’re on. C & D has called it “quiet and well isolated” while Edmunds has described it as “smooth and absorbent”

Reliability and Warranty

The 2022 RX is a favorite amongst organizations such as JD Power and Consumer Reports. They’ve ranked it atop their midsized SUV lists for the year.

The former has put its predicted reliability in the ‘Great’ category while the latter says that it is above average in this regard.

You’ll also get a better warranty for the RX than its rivals have to offer.

Lexus will give you a limited warranty for 4 years/50k miles, a powertrain warranty for 6 years/70k miles, and a hybrid components warranty for 8 years/100k miles.

On top of all that, you’ll get complimentary maintenance, for 1 year/10k miles.

Verdict

The 2022 Lexus RX450h is a vehicle designed to showcase the best of what modern tech can provide.

Combining style, comfort, and convenience, this high-end vehicle is sure to wow even those with the most refined driving tastes.

The 2022 RX boasts an excellent drivability that keeps the driver satisfied, while the ride quality impresses all of the vehicle’s occupants.

To top it all off, you get the reliability that is unmatched by all of its rivals.

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