Lexus RX400h and Lexus RX450h, retro comparison (II)

Now you know our two protagonists, one of them with almost 200,000 km on the road, a good mileage for analysing a car. But our two Lexus still have much more to tell us and to analyse. In this second part of the test, we are going to focus on the differences and design advances that the Lexus RX400h has undergone compared with the RX450h.

The changes are also significant. The time that has passed between one model and its evolution has been noticeable in the design, as four years have passed since the RX400h was launched on the market (2005) and later, in 2009, the RX450h. Nor will we forget the equipment, since the RX450h now has new equipment features that were not available before and that add extra value to a car like this.

Exterior design, gaining presence

The shapes of the old RX400h seem more restrained, and even if we compare both models exteriorly and at first sight, the older model may seem smaller.

There is also another notable detail, since while the RX450h gained exterior presence, with more robust shapes and larger dimensions, it also lost off-road angles, which is especially noticeable at the front. The 2005 model already had LED technology for the brake lights, something the current RX still incorporates, and it also equips front light units, likewise with LED technology.

Finishing the exterior review, the new grille and Lexus logo stand out, which is now bluish in colour, whereas before the logo had no background. In addition, the grille incorporates the brand’s new design language, now reinforced in the 2012 version with LED daytime running lights.

Another curious detail, because it especially catches the eye, is the antenna. This element disappears in the new generation to be integrated into the interior rear-view mirror, whereas the older model has it placed slightly towards one side so that it is more accessible (Japanese practicality).

Interior design, with fewer changes

Inside, the changes are limited to the new design of the centre console. Whereas the Lexus RX400h has a design where plastic has a greater presence, in the new version the materials and the layout of the controls have been improved.

In addition, the touchscreen that controls the navigation system, multimedia functions and on-board computer stands out in the RX400h, compared with the new controller located on the centre console of the RX450h, which works like a computer mouse. The screen is also larger.

The instrumentation is slightly different, both the power indicators (which replace a traditional rev counter) and the on-board computer itself, which is simpler and displays less information in the earlier model.

In the rear, the changes are much smaller, the seats are large and three adults can travel without problems and with plenty of space. Optionally, the Lexus RX450h equips two rear DVD screens, a feature not available in the previous version and very practical if you travel with children.

Equipment, complete even in the older model

Although the car was launched in 2005, equipment features stand out such as dual-zone air conditioning, electric opening of the boot lid or the touchscreen navigation system that controls the on-board computer and energy system functions.

That said, the passing of the years is not in vain, and the new RX now offers a greater level of equipment. While not leaving behind the navigation screen, it is now larger and is controlled from the Remote Touch on the centre console, a controller in the style of a computer mouse.

A major addition to the car’s equipment is the air suspension. Thanks to it, any irregularity in the asphalt is absorbed by the suspension without disturbing interior comfort, and it also offers height adjustment to get over more difficult off-road areas or to lower the car and gain stability on tarmac.

The connectivity has also advanced over the years, with new features such as a USB port or Bluetooth connection for your phone or to use it as a music player. That said, the quality of the speaker system by Mark Levinson in the RX400h stands out, which despite the years shows a power and sound quality that is enviable in a modern car.

Now that we know the changes and details of both models well, in the next part of the test we will comment on the evolution of the engine and hybrid system, and we will close this peculiar comparison with our general assessment of that evolution.