2010 Lexus RX 450h Quality Review

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h boasts a larger cargo space than previous RX Lexus models, as well as all-day comfortable seats. Unfortunately, seating for five is the only option, as Lexus continues to resist the trend to add a third row to its mid-size SUV offering.

ConsumerGuide reviewers contend that "this premium midsize crossover SUV seats five" in a very comfortable arrangement, with front seats that are "shaped and padded for long-haul comfort, with an excellent blend of cushioning and support." Other reviews read by TheCarConnection.com echo that sentiment, with Cars.com noting that "the optional leather seats are power-adjustable up front." Motor Trend reviewers appreciate the extra space on the new 2010 Lexus RX 450h, measuring "jumps in legroom (0.6 inch front, 0.2 inch rear) and rear shoulder room (0.5 inch)" that are attributable to the increased exterior dimensions of the Lexus RX 450h.

The rear seats also score well, as ConsumerGuide mentions that the back bench of the Lexus RX 450h offers "ample headroom and foot space for adults sitting outboard." The rear seats are also customizable—Cars.com says that "the backseat folds in a 40/20/40 split; like before, it reclines and adjusts forward and backward."

Interior storage space wasn't all that bad on the previous version of the RX Lexus lineup, but a few design changes for the 2010 Lexus RX 450h result in even more capacity. Cars.com reports that "the RX's cargo area measures 40 cubic feet," which means there is "more space than a Lincoln MKX (32.3 cubic feet)." Kelley Blue Book compares it favorably with previous versions of the RX Lexus, declaring that the latest Lexus RX 450h has "more space for five people and their cargo." In terms of hard numbers, Motor Trend says that the 2010 Lexus RX 450h has "an additional 1.7 cubic feet of cargo space, thanks to an all-new rear control-arm suspension." In the passenger area, ConsumerGuide remarks that "interior small-items storage is a bit below average for an SUV."

Both build and materials quality are excellent in the 2010 Lexus RX 450h. Cars.com states that "leather upholstery is optional (cloth seats are standard)," but otherwise this Lexus RX 450h comes standard with premium materials. ConsumerGuide notes that "RX models feature luxurious, high-grade cabin materials, with many soft-touch surfaces and comfortable padding" throughout. One of the new material touches, according to Motor Trend, is the use of an "OLED (organic LED) multi-information display, which is thinner and more efficient than LCD." Cars.com also comments that the Lexus RX 450h "makes wide use of soft-touch materials," which lend an air of luxury and quality to the cabin.

Occupants will feel comfortable, even when the road is less than smooth. ConsumerGuide raves that, on the Lexus RX 450h, "the ride is absorbent yet composed and controlled—nearly on par with a premium sedan." Edmunds does, however, reports that on straight roads the "RX 450h settles in and delivers a relaxed, serene ride that we simply can't fault."

Unlike its corporate sibling, the Lexus RX 350, the 2010 Lexus RX 450h doesn't have any significant cabin noise issues. Much to the contrary, ConsumerGuide says that "overall noise levels are pleasantly low," although "there is a noticeable wind whistle at highway speeds."