2010 Lexus RX 450h Features Review

February 24, 2009

FEATURES | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

A host of new features
Kelley Blue Book

Slick technology like the mouse-operated, hard-drive-based Remote Touch navigation system
Edmunds

Head-up display and a dual-screen backseat entertainment system are also optional
Cars.com

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h packs on high-tech features without unduly complicating the driving experience.

The features on the 2010 Lexus RX 450h draw lots of attention in reviews read by TheCarConnection.com, which is understandable when you consider that Motor Trend claims the RX Lexus lineup is "crammed with about as much tech as the International Space Station." ConsumerGuide notes the availability of some "welcome high-tech features," including "a hard drive for storing digital music files."

The most interesting new feature on the Lexus RX 450h is the Remote Touch interface—Edmunds reports that this new mouse-operated system "feels instantly natural" for those accustomed to working on computers, and "eventually users perceive it to be just as easy to use as a touchscreen." Motor Trend, meanwhile, states that the Lexus RX 450h includes "intuitive park assist, Smart Key access system, XM NavTraffic and Weather, heads-up display...and standard Bluetooth."

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h can be equipped with much more technology than just what is offered in the base version, though that may prove to be enough for most people. For those interested in additional features, ConsumerGuide reports that "an available side-view monitoring system uses TV cameras to show a wide-angle passenger-side view of the vehicle on the navigation screen," while additional features for the Lexus RX 450h include "dual-screen DVD entertainment [and] adaptive cruise control." Audiophiles will be delighted to learn that Motor Trend reviewers list a "15-speaker Mark Levinson audio" system as one of the available upgrades for the RX Lexus lineup.

Conclusion

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h borrows a lot from Silicon Valley, but easily keeps it all in check.

FEATURES | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:A host of new featuresKelley Blue BookSlick technology like the mouse-operated, hard-drive-based Remote Touch navigation systemEdmundsHead-up display and a dual-screen backseat entertainment system are also optionalCars.com The 2010 Lexus RX 450h packs on high-tech features without unduly complicating the driving experience. The features on the 2010 Lexus RX 450h draw lots of attention in reviews read by TheCarConnection.com, which is understandable when you consider that Motor Trend claims the RX Lexus lineup is "crammed with about as much tech as the International Space Station." ConsumerGuide notes the availability of some "welcome high-tech features," including "a hard drive for storing digital music files." The most interesting new feature on the Lexus RX 450h is the Remote Touch interface—Edmunds reports that this new mouse-operated system "feels instantly natural" for those accustomed to working on computers, and "eventually users perceive it to be just as easy to use as a touchscreen." Motor Trend, meanwhile, states that the Lexus RX 450h includes "intuitive park assist, Smart Key access system, XM NavTraffic and Weather, heads-up display...and standard Bluetooth." The 2010 Lexus RX 450h can be equipped with much more technology than just what is offered in the base version, though that may prove to be enough for most people. For those interested in additional features, ConsumerGuide reports that "an available side-view monitoring system uses TV cameras to show a wide-angle passenger-side view of the vehicle on the navigation screen," while additional features for the Lexus RX 450h include "dual-screen DVD entertainment [and] adaptive cruise control." Audiophiles will be delighted to learn that Motor Trend reviewers list a "15-speaker Mark Levinson audio" system as one of the available upgrades for the RX Lexus lineup. ConclusionThe 2010 Lexus RX 450h borrows a lot from Silicon Valley, but easily keeps it all in check.  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 (5 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

  5. By  Used rvs #6, Posted: 11/12/2009

    The RX has been the most ridicules vehicle invented since it came out.First it has no room more then a compact wagon like Jetta or Passat. A shape that if it were Aerodynamic in shape it would not need the Hybrid and get better gas mileage.

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