2023 Lexus RX 350h vs 2022 Lexus RX 450h V6: Which One Gives You a Better Driving Experience?

In this Video I take 2022 Lexus RX 450H on Dynamic Drive test in the city, highway and canyon roads to compare it against 2023 Lexus RX 350h and give my final verdict which is a better driving car and why would you choose one versus the other.

[@sulehk]

I have owned my 2022 RX450h FSport for a year now & I don’t have any regrets. I love the comfort & the V6 + hybrid power, and the special quiet driving space. It wasn’t designed to handle the road like a sports car but it gives me all the power I need at any speed. Also, on my recent 3600 mile cross-country road trip, it’s the most powerful and comfortable car I’ve ever owned. The only time I heard road noise was on the worst un-maintained highways. My last car was a 2016 Toyota RAV4 and the only advantage of the RAV4 is it’s lighter & more nimble and this Rx450h beats it in everything else including gas mileage (Around 30 mpg). I’m happy with it & I’m keeping it for many more years to come. I may trade it in years down the road for the new Lexus GX450 and not the new 4 cylinder engines.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your comment. Older V6 engine with hybrid powertrain certainly feels smoother than new 4 cylinder and it's a very comfy ride for your most needs. Dynamically this car feels like a generation from early 2000s and Lexus realizes that, this is why their new Gen RX drives way different dynamically. If you don't like new RX350h you should try RX500h - that is such an incredible masterpiece. Of course with new pricing and interest rates Lexus has become so much more unaffordable for most people. But the key is to be happy. If you like your car and it suits your your then you got the best car.

[@HarryC786]

Great review. Helped me choose my Lexus. Definitely go with V6. Thanks lot, did sub u.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks a lot for your comment. Glad it helped.

[@bec9696]

I recently took the 2023 on a test drive. I have a very bad back, lumber spinal fusion and pain stimulator implant, and found it wonderful over bumps and speed humps. We even found a cruddy empty car park to drive it around just to test out my responses to bumps and humps. Definitely didn't want to get back in my Rav4 afterwards!

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for stopping by. Yes, overall 2023 Lexus RX is very comfortable. Previous generation Lexus is even softer if you only care about soft ride but it’s driving dynamics feel like from 10 years ago. I do like new language Lexus uses combining comfort and bringing better driving characteristics. Wish you all the best with your back

[@kubanskiloewe]

i own the old V6Hybrid version and i drove the new 4cylHybrid .... just not my thing of driving a luxurious car from this size ! I will buy again a used V6Hybrid from its last MY

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for sharing. I can see how you like the way your Lexus drives. It floats on the road very smoothly. New RX gen is firmer and handles better. If that is not something you are looking for then sticking to previous gen Lexus is absolutely fine. Lexus is basically trying to innovate with newer cars and bring all their cars in line with European rivals by offering both better handling and comfortable ride.

[@NoHypebeastZay]

V6 all the way!

[@tonypham9220]

Cool story

[@don_kandon6006]

Hey man, great, informative video. Out of all lexuses you tested with noise tester, which one is the quietest? Thanks

[@100miledrive]

Hi there. Thanks for the feedback. So I tested NX 350h, RX 350, RX 350h, 2022 RX 450h and soon will have RX 500h on the channel. I would say 2023 RX 350 and RX 350h are the quietest. 2022 RX 450h was quite as well but had slightly louder road noise from tires on the freeway. NX 350h had run-flat tires which make an additional noise. I couldn't tell much difference between RX350 on premium wheels and RX 350h on regular wheels. On the highway they are about the same, or unless you test drive both wheel options one after another to see the minor difference.

[@kkedarpp]

Driven both, the old 450h is better than newer 350h

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your feedback

[@fernandosmurillo]

Excellent video brother thanks for sharing. I definitely want the new one. But curious are you able to make a comparison between a RX 350h and a Highlander hybrid? For Highlander get the platinum and for the Lexus get the premium or premium plus. Price wise those trims are in the range. Thanks for your time brother.

[@100miledrive]

Hi there thanks for the feedback. As far as older RX 450h or new RX350h I would certainly pick the new one as it is more dynamic and overall feels more fresh. As far as comparing Toyota Highlander Hybrid to Lexus RX 350h - both are really good cars. Both are fairly stable. They greatly differ in their utilities and luxury. Also Lexus will have better sound insulation and more premium seats. It will also feel like it soaks the bumps with a more premium feel even though Highlander does a good job as well. Overall these are 2 different type of vehicles. If I were looking for a 3 row SUV for either bigger family or longer trips or simply driving a lot I would get Toyota Highlander Hybrid. If I want to feel like I am driving more upscale Premium SUV around town, not necessarily lots of long distance driving (doesn't feel right to put too many miles on premium SUV) I would get Lexus RX 350h. At the end I highly recommend to find both on Turo and rent for a day. After driving both you will be able to make up your mind better. I hope this helps. Also Toyota/Lexus at least here in California still have shortage of both vehicles, therefore many try to mark up their cars above MSRP or sell MSRP, basically no discounts.

[@jpdoc5722]

‘22 for the 🏆 win

[@100miledrive]

Alright. Thanks for stopping by.

[@regmatt]

i agree to ur point , my 2022 rx 350 awd steering is too plushy and big and so is the suspension which i don’t like lot of body roll but a cruiser on highways but haven driven the f sport suspension 2023 heard it’s more stiffer suspension and driving is planted and so it’s the seats too

[@100miledrive]

Yes, 2022 and 2023 are like day and night. 2022 certainly still has that appeal for anyone looking for very comfy ride and not really caring too much about driving dynamics. 2023 on the other hand is a much more collected vehicle on a new platform that can handle twisty roads and still provide adequate comfort. If you haven't watched on my channel I made videos on both 2023 RX 350 and RX 350h. As soon as I find RX 500h will review that as well.

[@MrDomestosWC]

I own '18 RX350L non-hybrid that I use as a longer distance cruiser and I'm going to keep it for now. The older RX generation is way smoother and quieter than the new one IMO. The new RX is certainly appealing but it needs to grow on me.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for sharing. As a cruiser, yes this car is super comfortable. My dad loves Lexus for that specifically. But with their new gen RX they are trying to still offer comfort and better handling charactetistics. I think they will be able to reach wider audience with the new gen.

[@kubanskiloewe]

@@100miledrive i think not ! Lexus better should have stay in the luxury path. Here in germany only a handful of them they will sell. Why doing the same shit like any other does ?? For this i do not need Lexus ...than i can buy again a Merc, BMW, Audi or whatever.

[@100miledrive]

@@kubanskiloewe I do see your point on this. Some will like their new changes and some not. I see such issues across all the brands. There are certain things we love and certain absolutely hate.

[@yhussain733]

@@100miledrive another dude that can't afford the new Lexus model SMH

[@ngoniko]

This car has plenty of power, no regrets on the purchase.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for the feedback. I believe you are referring to RX 350h. It is certainly enough power for most of the things you do.

[@tr1144]

I have been driving toyota v6 for years, I’m not fan 2.4L engine in RX, im going to buy V6 old RX

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for the feedback. I highly recommend to rent them and experience for yourself. V6 in previous gen RX 350 is not particularly exciting as it's designed for smooth driving. That car is just a comfy couch. New RX with 2.4L Turbo feels much more engaging and car overall feels more stable, yet still quite comfortable. I was also skeptical about 4 cylinder engine but it quite impressed me in the new RX 350.

[@kielsee5191]

I used to own the 2014 RX350. Replaced it with the new RX350h. Old one definitely feels like a boat. Too much for my liking. Makes me sick. The new RX corners like a champ. One thing I dislike about the new one is that I feel a lot of road noise and road vibrations. I feel so much vibrations through the steering wheel and pedals. Feels like a Mazda CX5. Unacceptable for a car at this price. My old 2014 was extremely smooth. No road vibrations at all. It must be due to the stiffer platform and 21" wheels. Mine came with Dunlop Sportmaxx 060.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for the feedback. As for older RX platform it does feel like a legacy platform as there is no excitement in owning such a car unless all you care about is boat like ride comfort. There was such a huge distinction in the past between BMW X5 and RX 350. It was like a day and night, but this gap has shortened with the new RX platform. I am pretty surprised to hear about the vibration issue you are having. One of the cars we rented also had 21 inch wheels and it was very comfortable. It was regular RX350 (video is on the channel). We spent more than 200 miles in that car and we loved it. Are you sure there is no balancing issue with maybe tires? I would certainly take it to the dealer and drive it with their tech to explain the issue. Maybe it is something that can be resolved by the dealer. There should be no vibrations especially in Lexus.

[@benderbendingrodriguez2868]

How much did u sell the 14 for

[@FilmScape4K]

You need to get the 2016 or 2020 RX then.

[@Tom-ff8cv]

The I can feel the vibration on the pedal with the 2023Rx. Anyone find this bothersome? Is there a fix for this?

[@100miledrive]

Hmm.. I can't recall feeling any vibrations with the new RX 350h. Did you get it checked by the dealer? They can drive the car with you and check if anything is wrong with it

[@NathanArnold-sf7gx]

Thanks for the comparison, both nice looking vehicles but the CVT sound in both of them especially the 4 cylinder sounds dreadful, really.

[@100miledrive]

Yes I am not a fan of CVT at all. Regular 6 speed should’ve been an ultimate option. But it’s not that bad. CVT also evolved quite a bit. I certainly like new RX platform. And my most favorite is RX 500h. That’s the car that really impressed me

[@hondajacka2]

I wished they kept the V6 on the new RX. The new buzzy loud 4 cylinder doesn't belong on an RX.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for the comment. I definitely see your point. V6 felt much smoother than Turbo 4 cylinder engine. What felt good was RX 500h where they combined traditional 6 speed gearbox with Turbo engine and electric motors. It does have weird artificial electric noise but power delivery is much smoother and it's more punchy. CVT transmission (like in RX 350h) in my opinion should not be used in Premium vehicles, it just ruins the experience.

[@myusrn]

Where do I go to rent an 2022 rx450h or 2023 350h?

[@100miledrive]

You can rent from app called Turo. It depends on where you live in some areas more cars than others.

[@myusrn]

@@100miledrive assuming a Lexus Rx owner are the type to put there car on service like turo. Have you seen that being the case for luxury models?

[@100miledrive]

​@@myusrn There are plenty of people on Turo who are renting out luxury cars. There are also many luxury rental car companies that are now present on Turo. I am able to find there almost anything here in Los Angeles.

[@voituer]

Interesting but let me say your driving does not suit that car not the other way round. Relax and let the Lexus do the work, it’s like watching an eager puppy behind the wheel

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your comment. My channel focuses on driving dynamics and by simply driving it in a straight line is not going to show any of the chassis, steering, engine, brakes etc.. I also say that before you buy a car you should rent it for a day and drive for 100 miles on city streets, highway and twisty roads to be able to see the character of the car. You will be quite surprised how much new Lexus gen is different compare to the old one. There is nothing wrong with older gen of Lexus, but that was all they could do in the past - drive in a straight line in most comfortable way. New models finally have more stability and will cater to a wider audience.

[@Progmium]

Wish they would get rid of the CVT.

[@100miledrive]

Yes, agree. They are getting better, but still not even close to conventional transmission. I loved how RX500h was executed. The best of everything.

[@lukaszsynos]

Just buy 500h

[@garman7921]

Non hybrid models have the 8 speed transmission

[@ngoniko]

I like the ECVT, nothing is wrong with it.

[@FilmScape4K]

No they should get rid of traditional autos and use eCVTs everywhere.

[@yhussain733]

Hi Sir thank you for your detailed review and comparison. I own 2023 Lexus rx350h (my first lexus) and recently I was provided with 2022 lexus rx350 (loaner car for oil change). I did not like the old rx at all. It may be v6 but for some reason, the new lexus (inline 4) feels much more stable, smooth and luxurious . A lot of ppl commenting negative about 2023 lexus rx are either haters or simply can't afford a the new lexus. The 5th generation lexus is a beautiful SUV and very well designed not to mentioned it would save me banks on gas costs over the span for 2 decades

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your comment and feedback on both cars. What you mentioned is basically what I talked about in my video. Old Lexus RX is just like a couch which will move you around very comfortably but with no good driving dynamics what so ever. New RX is finally a platform Lexus was due for. It is stable, no shaky moves, has better steering, so good handling overall for such SUV. I would take new RX350h any day over older RX 450h, but I understand people who love the older platform because it is relaxed and even more comfy for simple straight line driving.

[@FilmScape4K]

Rx350 is not a comparison. The Rx450h is smoother and more refined. Don’t be a hater of the better Lexus.

[@yhussain733]

@@FilmScape4K bla bla bla

[@FilmScape4K]

@@yhussain733 you bla bla the most trying to justify why you brought an inferior car to the one it replaced.

[@100miledrive]

@@FilmScape4K I am not a hater of Lexus by any means, but I will argue that new RX is far more refined and dynamically has much better chassis than previous generations. Have you ever driven RX 450h on twisty roads to see how it's chassis behaves? It's good just to go in a straight line and caters mainly to people who like this type of a ride. Lexus realized that and they want to appeal to a winder audience therefore they came up with a much better and more refined chassis that is stable and comfortable.

[@mervinprone]

Why would you tell someone to rent the car for the day? That’s what the test drive is for, at the dealership. When’s the last time you saw an RX available for rent?

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your comment. Let me ask you a direct question: "From doing a 5 minute test drive around the dealership block how much information will you gather in these 5 minutes?" Especially if you test driving a car in the area with good roads. I started my channel for this exact reason where I say: In order to understand how does the car actually feel to drive you need to drive it for at least 50-100 miles in the city, highway and if you can twisty roads and this will truly help you make an informed decision whether you like this car or not. In my videos I explain what I am looking for on each different surface. You can also watch the very first video on my channel where I explain why I started this channel. It happened to me in the past, it happened to so many of my friends where they test drove a car, signed 5 year loan and literally next week they regretted their purchase. -These days you can rent Lexus RX in places like Turo. Also Uber will soon launch a similar service to Turo which will allow you to rent a specific car. -However I understand there are many people who don't care about driving experience and in that case they can buy a car right after a test drive. Hopefully this explains the reason I encourage to rent a car for a day before buying it.

[@xr4zgr1zx]

​@100miledrive I fully agree, I used turo to rent an RX to compare with a Q5. The extended time we had with the rental made so much difference when evaluating a car. It's easier to identify the pros and cons when you're driving how you want and not pestered by a salesman sitting next to you. It's not for everyone because it is money out of your pocket, but if the little things are important to you I have to agree that renting one is a good idea. 👍

[@erickholman6815]

Because most dealerships won't let you take a test drive for a full afternoon, and you CANT assess a car's ride and handling in a short 15 minute test drive. So renting one makes sense. Also, ask the dealer to rent the car. Many will do this.

[@navin4313]

What’s the point of continuously saying ‘not bad’ at everything? Meaningless in a review.

[@100miledrive]

Thanks for your feedback. I kind of do that when I have some expectation about something and it is not met but at the same time not too disappointing either.