Lexus RX 450h Anniversary, road test (Engine, exterior and interior design)

At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Lexus RX 450h was presented in its special Anniversary version, to commemorate 15 years of the Japanese model. The first model of the RX range hit the market in 1998, and today we put the RX to the test in this special version, which changes design elements and comes with complete equipment.

As the Lexus RX450h is an old acquaintance of our test team, we have changed our usual test order, to focus on those aspects that are new in this Anniversary version. If you want to know more about the RX’s hybrid system don’t miss our road test, where we break down everything about the engine, performance, handling and consumption.

Engine, performance and handling

300 horsepower delivered by a hybrid setup made up of a 3.5 V6 petrol engine (with 249 CV) and two electric motors (the three together make 299 CV), that is the Lexus RX450h. The engine is petrol, meaning it doesn’t have the instant torque of a diesel, but the 300 CV are very noticeable when you press the accelerator, and it also features a Sport driving mode to sharpen throttle response and gearbox behaviour.

As a good hybrid vehicle, it also has an ECO mode to save as much fuel as possible and the ability to run in 100% electric mode (EV mode), although only up to 40 km/h and no more than 2 km, or the distance allowed by the battery charge.

Although its strengths lie more in comfort than in sportiness, its air suspension (standard on this Anniversary version) looks after the occupants to the highest level, especially on potholed or uneven roads. It is not a car that stands out for agility due to its soft suspension, dimensions and weight, but it does for its high level of ride comfort.

It has three levels that can be selected from a control to the left of the steering wheel: HI, which raises the body 30 mm; LO, which lowers it 20 mm; and N, the normal mode up to 110 km/h, above which it automatically switches to LO mode. On the motorway the difference between N and LO modes is noticeable, as there is less inertia at high speeds.

The average consumption of the Lexus RX450h is around 9 litres per 100 km, a figure that can occasionally drop to 8-8.5 litres per 100 km if we drive carefully. Its best terrain is the city, because thanks to the hybrid system consumption stays under control, unlike a diesel 4×4 whose consumption soars in town.

Exterior design

This special Anniversary version features a new front end with F-Sport elements, such as the new grille that gives it a sportier and more aggressive look. It also gets seven-spoke 19-inch wheels.

The rest of the design remains unchanged, with the LED headlights standard on this version standing out at the front, or the rear end, which stays the same apart from the Anniversary badge.

Externally you can choose from five colours: Pearl White, Silver, Dark Grey, Starlight Black and Red. There are three interior upholstery options: Ivory, Grey, Black and Brown.

Interior design and finish

Inside, the design hasn’t changed from the RX we already know, but the equipment has been improved and the navigation system updated, now with a new menu similar to that of the GS, which improves access to information and the various functions.

That said, the quality remains at premium segment level, where the RX sits, with good finishes and the presence of premium materials such as leather throughout much of the cabin.

The driving position is high, the leather steering wheel and seats wrap around the driver, and visibility is good. In the back there is more than enough room for legs and head, and it also has two built-in screens that can be removed so the youngest passengers stay entertained on the journey, along with two wireless headphones.

As for the boot, it has a capacity of 439 litres. It is not one of the best figures, but bear in mind that the batteries take up some of the space. The tailgate on our unit is electrically operated and has a regular shape, so it can be used without any problem.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverLexus RX5 versions · from 83,900 €