Lexus announced Tuesday the 2024 RX midsize crossover SUV line-up will add the RX 450h+, a plug-in hybrid variant. The new PHEV will be built on the fifth generation RX platform launched in 2023.
The baseline RX 350 uses a 275-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine, while the RX 350h is powered by a hybrid motor coupled with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine for 246 total system horsepower.
The RX 500h offers a high-performance hybrid with 366 hp from a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 matched to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and electric motor. The new 450h+ adds to this portfolio without replacing any model.
Plug-in hybrid driveline
Lexus says the new 450h+ carries a “high-capacity” lithium-ion battery but did not specify the kWh rating. The battery pack is paired with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine previously installed in the Lexus NX. The RX 450h+ utilizes an electronically controlled, full-time AWD system.
According to Lexus, the plug-in hybrid system achieves impressive acceleration with a manufacturer-estimated 6.2 second 0-60 time. The RX 450h+ has an EPA-estimated 35-mile range rating on electric power, achieving 83 MPGe, according to EPA estimates.
The RX 450h+ comes equipped with a Level 1 vehicle-charging cable for 120V outlets and all models are equipped with a standard J1772 socket for at-home and public Level 2 charging. Lexus says that the 450h+ will use a high-output, high-efficiency system designed to reduce power loss when converting from AC power to DC power, resulting in faster charging times. Using the maximum charging current of 240V and under ideal conditions, the Lexus RX 450h+ can be fully charged in approximately two-and-a-half hours with the standard 6.6 kW onboard charger.
Standard luxury-grade trim
The 450h+ will include the luxury grade features found on the 2023 RX, including perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed interior, heated and ventilated power driver/front/rear passenger seats, thematic ambient lighting, heated wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a standard panorama glass roof with roof rails for an expansive in-cabin experience. A 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system will be available.
The 450h+ will come with a 14-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system with a subscription-based Google navigation system. A three-year trial of the service will be included. The system also supports Intelligent Assistant.
When users say, “Hey Lexus,” voice commands can operate certain interior amenities, such as navigation, multimedia and climate control. The advanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is also included, featuring adaptive cruise control and many advanced driver assistance features.
Lexus stated that the RX 450h+ will be available at dealers by the end of 2023, and will carry a starting MSRP of $70,080, includes delivery, processing, and handling fees.