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2010 Lexus RX 450h Review

February 24, 2009

STYLING | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Cabin feels just like the RX 350's and offers all the same amenities
Edmunds

Navigation screen is placed conveniently high in dashboard and deeply inset
ConsumerGuide

Appears conspicuously similar to the 2009 model
Motor Trend

If you've seen the less expensive RX 350—or even previous model-year RX models—you've essentially spotted the pricier 2010 Lexus RX 450h hybrid model. That's the case according to most reviews read by TheCarConnection.com. Even though the Lexus RX crossover utility vehicles have been redesigned, they bear a striking resemblance to previous RX Lexus models and could easily be mistaken for them from the outside.

The exterior styling of the Lexus RX 450h is familiar for a reason—it works, and Lexus doesn't want to mess with the unbridled success of the RX lineup. Motor Trend is quick to point out that "it's unlikely the neighbors will be able to detect that the 2010 RX is all-new," although they mention that the Lexus RX 450h features a "unique front grille and bumper and blue-tinted badges." Kelley Blue Book says the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is "slightly larger inside and out," while Cars.com adds that the Lexus RX 450h "is the latest Lexus to receive the brand's 'L-finesse' styling language." The key aspects of the new styling, according to Cars.com, are "sharp, angular design elements, such as the headlights." Road & Track picks up the new elements, remarking that "the new body has a much more muscular look," but for the most part it's the same RX you know and love.

The interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is another story, however, and it features a significant styling makeover. Road & Track calls the new look the "'dual-zone' cockpit design," which features "a display zone centered around the dash-mounted 8-in. navigation display, while the operation zone, closer to the driver, includes a remote touch-navigation controller and steering wheel-mounted multi-information switch." Automobile Magazine likes what Lexus has done inside, noting that the interior "now sports more angular faces than the Sydney Opera House" and claims "it's interesting to look at [and] even more intriguing to use."

Cars.com reports that other changes include "solid or two-tone color schemes" and "sweeping lines" across the dashboard. Another major change, according to Edmunds, is the "mouse-operated, hard-drive-based Remote Touch navigation system [that]...attracts a Gizmodo crowd that revels in technology for technology's sake."

Conclusion

The interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h wins praise for its user-friendly layout, while the refreshed exterior maintains a conservative appeal.

STYLING | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Cabin feels just like the RX 350's and offers all the same amenitiesEdmundsNavigation screen is placed conveniently high in dashboard and deeply insetConsumerGuideAppears conspicuously similar to the 2009 modelMotor Trend If you've seen the less expensive RX 350—or even previous model-year RX models—you've essentially spotted the pricier 2010 Lexus RX 450h hybrid model. That's the case according to most reviews read by TheCarConnection.com. Even though the Lexus RX crossover utility vehicles have been redesigned, they bear a striking resemblance to previous RX Lexus models and could easily be mistaken for them from the outside. The exterior styling of the Lexus RX 450h is familiar for a reason—it works, and Lexus doesn't want to mess with the unbridled success of the RX lineup. Motor Trend is quick to point out that "it's unlikely the neighbors will be able to detect that the 2010 RX is all-new," although they mention that the Lexus RX 450h features a "unique front grille and bumper and blue-tinted badges." Kelley Blue Book says the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is "slightly larger inside and out," while Cars.com adds that the Lexus RX 450h "is the latest Lexus to receive the brand's 'L-finesse' styling language." The key aspects of the new styling, according to Cars.com, are "sharp, angular design elements, such as the headlights." Road & Track picks up the new elements, remarking that "the new body has a much more muscular look," but for the most part it's the same RX you know and love. The interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is another story, however, and it features a significant styling makeover. Road & Track calls the new look the "'dual-zone' cockpit design," which features "a display zone centered around the dash-mounted 8-in. navigation display, while the operation zone, closer to the driver, includes a remote touch-navigation controller and steering wheel-mounted multi-information switch." Automobile Magazine likes what Lexus has done inside, noting that the interior "now sports more angular faces than the Sydney Opera House" and claims "it's interesting to look at [and] even more intriguing to use." Cars.com reports that other changes include "solid or two-tone color schemes" and "sweeping lines" across the dashboard. Another major change, according to Edmunds, is the "mouse-operated, hard-drive-based Remote Touch navigation system [that]...attracts a Gizmodo crowd that revels in technology for technology's sake." ConclusionThe interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h wins praise for its user-friendly layout, while the refreshed exterior maintains a conservative appeal.  2010 LEXUS RX STYLING | [8 out of 10] Edmunds: "Cabin feels just like the RX 350 's and offers all the same amenities" ConsumerGuide: "Navigation screen is placed conveniently high in dashboard and deeply inset" Motor Trend: "Appears conspicuously similar to the 2009 model" If ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Finding comparable vehicles to the 2010 Lexus RX 450h isn't an easy task, but two German SUVs and a downscale Toyota come closest to the Lexus' fuel economy and interior room. The Mercedes-Benz ML320 CDI sports that maker's BlueTEC diesel engine and gets highway fuel economy in the mid-20s, while offering a plush and expensive five-seat cabin. The coming VW Touareg diesel is similar in mission to the Benz, minus the coveted badge and brand name; those wanting a slightly sprightlier driving feel might also like the Audi Q7, which late in the 2009 model year comes in a fuel-efficient TDI version. Toyota's own Highlander Hybrid is another alternative; it's substantially cheaper than the new Lexus hybrid, while offering a similar powertrain and additional seating for two more passengers—with blocky, unrefined looks and loose, unengaging handling.

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See the Lexus RX 450h in Other Years:

2010

Comments (4 total)

  1. By  Used trucks #2, Posted: 7/11/2009

    The interior is pretty ugly but I am sure the fit and finish and quality is top notch. The old model had a much nicer exterior (imo) as well. This
    looks even MORE jellybean than the last.

  2. By fred #3, Posted: 7/27/2009

    You read so many conflicting reviews on the RX450h. If you have never experienced a Lexus Hybrid, better to keep your mouth shut. My 2006 RX400h will be changed in Sept. for the new 450H. After 4 winters in Montreal, not one single problem, and 9.5 liters per 100KLM with the 4 wheel drive operating 75% of the time, and in below zero temperatures, one would have to have his head examined to entertain any other model other than the 450H. True, its not a sport off road vehicle, but hey, that is not what I need. Bravo Lexus/Toyota. You always do it right the first time.

  3. By Don Jessup #4, Posted: 9/6/2009

    Just picked up new 450H. Fun to drive, lots of high tech, GPS impressive, but data base is ancient. At least two years out of date. No power outlet in dash. Center console storage is like a dark cave. I was told it can use regular or premium gas. Beautiful fit and finish like every Lexus. More after I drive it a while. Paid $47,619 with upgrades.

  4. By james #5, Posted: 9/23/2009

    Hi everyone, i am planning to buy the 450H.
    does anyone know what it would cost to replace the hybrid battery and when??
    thank you

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