2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The midsize luxury SUV market is flooded, but one way manufacturers can manage to differentiate themselves from the crowd is to go greener, and that is exactly what Lexus has done with the RX Hybrid. This premium hybrid SUV features all the pros of a regular SUV, like comfort and practicality, but it also has excellent fuel economy and lower emissions. Being a Lexus product, the RX Hybrid is a superbly refined machine with great build quality, a ton of standard tech, and an advanced powertrain. The 2023 models feature a new 2.4-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine and hybrid system that produces a total of 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque in the base model, or a more notable 366 hp in 500h F Sport Performance guise. And, thanks to a new platform and a longer wheelbase, rear-seat passengers will now be more comfortable than ever before. But is this enough to make sure competitors to the Lexus RX Hybrid can't touch it when the sublime Volvo XC90 Recharge is out there ticking boxes, and the BMW X5 Hybrid provides truly impressive handling?

If you're after the best driving experience, we'd recommend getting behind the wheel of the RX500h F Sport Performance. This RX hybrid packs a 366-hp punch and sends its power to all four wheels via Lexus's Direct4 system; it's enough to hustle to 60 mph in under six seconds. Compared to the previous RX, nothing much has changed in terms of drivability: the RX Hybrid is still clearly focused on delivering a cushy ride and places comfort above performance. This luxury-focused SUV soaks up bumps in town and maintains its composure over rough gravel trails. The light steering might be a boon for city driving, but everywhere else, it simply lacks communication and distances the driver from the overall driving experience. This is not a driver's car, but it is very comfortable, and is even roomier than before, so it should make an excellent long-distance cruiser for the family.

Lexus' family of luxury SUVs has never truly been focused on delivering sporty performance, and despite receiving a bold new look and new drivetrain options, the RX Hybrid remains a middling performer. The base model with its 2.4-liter engine won't thrill the senses, and the more powerful 500h is quick enough but no match for some of the more muscular European competitors out there. Where this car shines, and where customers in the USA will find the most value, is in its practicality and gas mileage. In base guise, the RX Hybrid will manage 36 mpg combined. Combine that with excellent long-distance comfort, and you have a brilliant family machine on your hands. Being a Lexus, the RX also comes with a ton of tech and comfort features as standard. It's not terribly exciting, but when looked at as an efficient long-distance cruising machine, it makes a lot of sense.