Lexus RX 450h L: seven seats for the hybrid SUV from Lexus

For 2,000 euros more than the five-seat version, Lexus adds the L variant to the RX 450h range, with much more boot space and up to seven seats.

The first hybrid SUV in the Premium segment can now also boast of being the first Lexus with seven seats. The brand adds to the Lexus RX 450h 2018 range an “L” version, with a lengthened body and three rows of seats.

Up to the rear section, the new Lexus RX 450h L is identical to the five-seat version. From that point onwards, the body length is increased by 110 mm, reaching just under 5 metres. To gain headroom in the third-row seats, the rear window is more sloping here, giving the roof a greater horizontal line. An exclusive trim on the rear pillar creates a false “floating roof” effect.

Seven seats… or a huge boot

The two main advantages of the Lexus RX 450h L are the option of having seven seats and the extra boot capacity. The third row of seats is very well resolved. To make access easier, the second row has more travel than in the short-body Lexus RX 450h, and is split in a 40/20/40 proportion. By operating a lever, this row folds forward, clearing the way to the two individual seats in the third row.

These two additional seats can occasionally be used by adults. But in the Lexus RX 450h L, what happens in practically all seven-seat SUVs and MPVs occurs. The floor sits so close to the seat base that the position is not comfortable on long journeys, although these seats are ideal for children. As with the rest of the seats, leather upholstery is standard. The third row can also be folded electrically when not needed, from a button at the front or even from the boot. This version adds three-zone climate control as standard.

And we arrive at what alone may be a reason to pay the 2,000 euros by which the price of this version increases over the 5-seat model: the boot capacity. In the Lexus RX 450h L, due to its greater length, with the third row folded down boot capacity reaches 828 litres, compared with 540 in the five-seater. With all seven seats in use there are still 211 litres, while folding down the second and third rows achieves 1,656 litres of capacity.

In addition, depending on the version, the Lexus RX 450h L adds hands-free tailgate opening. With the key in your pocket, simply pass your hand in front of the brand badge and the tailgate opens automatically.

Hybrid engine with 313 hp and 4×4 traction

Lexus offers the RX 450h L in a single mechanical version, with the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. It produces 313 CV of power thanks to the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with 262 CV, which combines, depending on use, with the 167 CV electric motor capable of propelling the vehicle on its own. To provide e-four all-wheel drive, a second independent motor is added on the rear axle, which supplies driving force to that axle depending on grip conditions.

Compared with the five-seat version, there is hardly any difference in performance or consumption. Lexus simply combines this long body with the top trim levels, so from the “basic” Executive version the RX 450h L already comes with a very complete specification. It includes, for example, 20-inch alloy wheels with 230/55-20 tyres, all the assistance systems integrated in the Lexus Safety System+ suite, ten airbags, 360-degree parking cameras, heated and ventilated seats, or a 8-inch multimedia system with 9 speakers.

Lexus RX 450h L prices

RX 450h L Executive: 76,800 €
RX 450h L Executive Tecno: 83,600 €
RX 450h L Luxury: 95,400 €