2021 Lexus RX 450h L: Still the go-to hybrid SUV?

Rebecca Jackson reviews the Lexus RX 450h L to see if this big hybrid SUV has what it takes to challenge newer rivals. Powered by a V6 petrol engine and two electric motors, the RX 450h was once one of the most fuel-efficient of the large SUVs. However, with newer plug-in hybrid rivals now on sale from the likes of Audi, BMW and Volvo, Lexus no longer has the edge when it comes to fuel economy. Can the facelifted RX 450h make up for this in other areas? And how much extra practicality do you get in seven-seat L configuration? Rebecca takes the big Lexus through its paces to find out.

Read our full expert review of the Lexus RX 450h:

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▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Contents of this video ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
0:00 - Intro
0:34 - Styling upgrades
0:53 - Looks and quality
01:43 - Interior
04.42 - What is it like to drive?
05:21 - Performance
05:53 - Who would enjoy owning this car?
06:20 - Economy
06:58 - Handling and comfort
08:10 - Wrap up

#lexusrx450h #cargurusUK #rebeccajackson

[manhuman]

Forget about the rivals, its a premium toyota that means fkng impeccable reliability, thats what people with common sense wants

[tommcallister]

Several years ago I bought a brand new BMW X5. Despite being well-maintained, its engine blew at 140, 000 kms (and BMW would do nothing for me because it was a year beyond its warranty). I've had two RX's which were MUCH more reliable. Just bought a new RX450h yesterday. Looking forward to many years of (reliable) enjoyment.

[HalalFoodTherapy]

I've test driven this car and I can tell you it's a lotttt more comfortable than what she's claimed. Would have this over any other SUV.

[rob]

I have the RX 300, bought it as a cheap comfortable runabout 6 years ago but I still have it, its 16 years old now with zero fault codes, everything works and it drives perfectly, sails through MOT's without advisories, the garage only ever do what is specified by Lexus on each service with no extra things required, if you want a reliable car that you can drive with that feeling that it will never breakdown then from my experience Lexus is the way to go, it is true though that Lexus could make the RX a world beating car in every respect if they wanted to but I think they are too scared to change stuff too quickly, I personally think they need to go for it they've proved over and over they can make awesome cars even performance cars.

[whitemoor]

Love how you draw attention to the way the doors will stay open at any angle. These sort of things do matter! Excellent cars.

[bjarnekvarnstrom]

I love my Bentley Azure 2001 for its beauty, interior and turbo engine, but my wife’s Lexus RX 450hL is great for picking me up when the Bentley decided to die in the midst of my journey, sometimes when turning or crossing another road. Indeed exciting! The Bentley has 22, 000 miles since new….with every service performed by to book. I always carry my smartphone when getting in to the $400.000 Bentley. The top of the line RX 450hL 2021 with every option in the book ended up at $68, 000, and it will probably run just as good as new for another 250, 000 miles. Ah, the Japanes engineers know what they do! The 450hL is our 4th Lexus. Never one mechanical issue since the first one in 2006! Impressive!

[cheddarfish]

I have a 2021 RX450hl, only done 20k Kms with it, it never misses a beat. You just know when you get in and press the start button, you will reach your destination. Never had that feeling from the range rover I had before. It was always a toss up of whether you would arrive at the dealer on the back of a flatbed or at the place you wanted to go. 😂

[leonwp]

I have a low mileage 2010 version, average mpg is above 40 mpg and the vehicle is absolutely superb.

[limpunsing]

Utterly the best way to go hybrid Splendid review

[-DC-]

Utterly effortless ownership experience wonderful dealer network and a superbly built vehicle, lots of manufacturers could learn from Lexus.

[kabysummit]

I've leased a RX350 for 3 years, and later owned a RX450H for 4 years. Wonderful cars. Zero defects. I now drive a sedan, and about to purchase a vintage truck or SUV.

[jfcn]

Simply a GREAT suv, Nice.
Who wants a X5 and Q for repairs (not a hobby)?

[harleyrobertson]

I love the silvers lexus makes, it's a really deep colour

[ss-pjti]

I have an 2021 LC500 convertible (caviar/ red) and a 2022 450 h f-sport (caviar/ red). For weekends the LC, for week days the 450. Life is good. amazing quality,

[George-jvd]

Been driving my Lexus 45h Takumi for 3 years from new, best car I ever had, 45 driving, I feel so safe and comfortable, Amazing

[phil]

If it were my own hard earned money, I would definitely buy a Lexus SUV - why? because they are far more reliable and give better aftersales service than and other brand making SUVs including BMW, Mercedes, Landrover, Audi or Volvo. I would never buy any of these vehicles due to their documented poor reliability record and in some cases poor aftersales service. Kia/ Hyundai are good but in my opinion Lexus still offer a better overall buying experience. Lexus cars are not perfect but in the most important areas reliability, engineering, aftersales and build quality they are the best in the world.

[phillipbeharall]

You are correct it wafts along I have just purchased a new Lexus NX it does everything right build quality second to none 🌹🌹thank you

[GC-plmd]

Subscribed! Only because it's joy to listen your car reviews, keep your lovely and passionate personality

[Tedcze]

I drove a RX450H for a day and it was so easy to drive.

[CHuzz]

Got a 13 plate Lexus hybrid with 85k on the clock. Drives like new and returns 58mpg wherever I go. If I were after an SUV it would certainly be a UX, NX or RX.