2024 Lexus RX450h+ | Anti EV Usability

We review the new 2024 Lexus RX450 Plug-in Hybrid, a Luxury SUV designed to bridge the gap between the EV world and a normal vehicle. While the price tag of $70,000 may cause shock, the Lexus is going in a different direction for a unique buyer. Others to consider are BMW X5, Volvo XC60 Recharge, Genesis GV80, Acura MDX, and Mazda CX-90 PHEV.
#cars #technology #engineering
Index:
00:00 Interior and Exterior
4:06 Mechanical Impressions
7:30 Driving Impressions
15:33 Final Thoughts

[@peterpodgorski]

I wish car journalists would stop spending so much time talking about the number of cylinders and sound. I get it, you care. Probably most of the audience here also cares. But let's just acknowledge that most customers really don't. Most people buying this car will never even press the accelerator hard enough for it to matter what the engine sounds like. All they care about is that it's reliable and economical. In the same way nobody cares if it's a "luxury platform". People care what it feels like, not what it is in principle.

[@savagegeese]

We have a Patreon who complains about the 4 cylinder vibration when engine kicks on as generator to charge battery. Also not trying to be confrontational but RX since its inception was a V6 Lexus, it was a far more refined engine experience. Anyone coming from that will notice. In fact Luxury products in 70k range were always using more cylinders. Compare this to inline 6 in BMW and the RX feels half the price. It does matter here.

[@wwyk1993]

No.

[@JordanKeller]

​@@savagegeesefacts

[@uGotGot1618]

Most buyers of economy cars don’t care, but this is a luxury car. You are selling to people who can afford BMW, MB, Audi, etc so refinement is extremely important. PERFECT EXAMPLE is my wife. She doesn’t know anything about cars, but when we were test driving SUVs in this price range, she was able to feel the differences in refinement right away. In the X5 “the isn’t as comfortable as the Q7, but it feels more sporty” etc etc. So, in a vacuum, yeah maybe it doesn’t matter, but people don’t buy cars in a vacuum, they test drive everything, especially above $70k.

[@dwb468]

@peterpodgorski, while I love the technical deep dives and visceral takeaways from the team at @savagegeese, you're observation is not wrong. I have no marketing math to refer to, but I would bet a Starbucks Latte Machiato that a strong majority of the RX450 NEW CAR buying crowd are less concerned with NVH and driving refinement than signaling upper middle class fiscal prowess.

[@bigmarkdarula]

I'll take fake wood over black glass piano every time Even silver chrome just reflects light back into your face

[@jissanhuq3792]

Agree and in a Lexus it comes off more old school but classic

[@cabaneencac5168]

Poofy loose-pillow velvet seat upholstery are missing to match the '80 LeBaron style woodwork

[@ekimandersom4478]

I actually like that wood look

[@tombaily29]

The copium is intense with this one. How about just real wood? Lmao

[@chrisli86]

Nearly all wood veneers used in luxury/premium brands are actually real wood. The issue when people think it’s fake is all dependent on the type of wood species the designers selected. Bamboo (like in the RX in this video) may appear fake because bamboo veneer naturally has a very waxy and plastic appearance, despite the material being natural. It’s just a poor material choice by Lexus. Many of the open pore wood veneers used in the German competitors (such as ash, walnut, and oak) appear more natural due to their matte finish and grain patterns.

[@Masterguy635]

I can feel the Takumi craftsmanship thru my screen with this one

[@anydaynow01]

Thee faux wood vernier Folded with care 10000 times Lexus perfection

[@Charlie_Yu]

Made by Sensei Joe in Ontario

[@TheBreakfastLover]

It's made in Canada. EDIT: my bad, the PHEV is made in Japan, all other RX's made in Canada

[@andersforsman4289]

⁠@@anydaynow01one can think it should be that way, considering the price of the big wood trim panel for the GS 😁( it’s in the $1k territory)😭😂

[@Feroce2023]

@@TheBreakfastLover The phev RX is not made in Canada, all the plug-in hybrids from Lexus are made and assembled in Japan. But Canada is right for all other RX.

[@omnimoeish]

I live in an upper middle class neighborhood where my neighbors all either trade out their German or American cars every couple of years or drive an RX or Forerunner until the wheels falls off. I think within 2 blocks of my house there are probably 12 RXs that are 10-25 years old. A lot of the 20 year old RXs are parked next to a brand new Porsche or Jaguar which cracks me up. Clearly the owner isn't hurting for money, and as Jack said, these hybrids REALLY hold their value. It's virtually impossible to find a used hybrid RX for sale, I can only imagine how hard it will be to find a used PHEV RX for sale in the future.. Last May I got a 2023 Luxury AWD RX 350h with nearly every option in the same colors inside and out as this model you reviewed and I'll probably keep it for a very long time. My 3 year old will need a car in 13 years and by the looks of my neighborhood that seems very doable. I don't understand why people are trying to pretend they're racing or tracking their SUV or off roading it when they're not actually going to (looking at your Range Rover). I'd rather have a car I don't have to swap out every other time I get a haircut and is easily and affordably serviced if something does go wrong (I've owned 3 Audis... never again).

[@lukewalker1051]

Bad choice for your 3 year old unless you leave him $50K in a trust for replacement parts. That POS of sh_t hybrid you bought is a far cry from why people bought Lexus products 10 years ago. Good luck, you will need it.

[@Feroce2023]

@@lukewalker1051 Hybrids are going to be less reliable even if made by Lexus, but still order of magnitude more reliable than an Audi.

[@barrygoldwasser5449]

​@@lukewalker1051historical data on Toyota hybrid systems disagree with your statement

[@gian3248]

Lexus has a REPUTATION for reliabilty - That dies NOT mean that the Lexuses of today are reliable

[@StandAloneState]

@@lukewalker1051why so mad?

[@christophernoe5367]

It really sucks that the industry basically leap frogged perfecting the plug in hybrid in favor of the EV. A PHEV perfectly fits most peoples needs without sacrificing anything and being incredibly efficient

[@toby2581]

Because policy is being set by ideologues, not practical people.

[@AyAy008]

Two words: WEF propaganda.

[@blasiankxng]

it's not incredibly efficient and it's worse in maintenance costs than EVs. plus most people use PHEV like regular hybrids anyway so it's almost pointless

[@nberkel]

Then we would be stuck in a halfway point of PHEV being perfected for years. Jack of all trades, master of none...

[@JSachter]

Absolutely right. It would also have increased the number of charging stations, encouraging the purchase (eventually) of more electric cars.

[@colin-nekritz]

I’ve owned more than one RX and still own an 1999 RX300 with 275,000 miles my son wants when he gets old enough to drive. They are boring AF and are an appliance CUV BUT they are incredibly bulletproof. If you don’t like repairs and want a quiet bulletproof vehicle that just works you cannot beat the RX.

[@peterkkk849]

Unless you race as a professional and make you living off of racing on track, I feel boring car is the best for the society, Too many people drive their "fun" cars on normal road instead of race track, and the "fun" aspect will trigger all unnecessary danger behaviors. Not only endanger themselves but other people as well

[@colechapman6976]

My parent's 2016 RX has a nice V6 engine. Hearing they replaced that with a 4-cylinder engine is disappointing. It's also a Toyota 4-cylinder so it won't be as refined as other competitors. It sucks that the new RX is more expensive, but comes with a worse engine than previous RX models

[@Im_pieta]

@@peterkkk849 you're not wrong, however, there is still fun to be had at street legal speeds, in my understanding, people in the US tend to only really care about cars speed in a straight line and care less and less for how a care feels in corners, leading to the impression that speeding is what "fun" cars are about.

[@colin-nekritz]

@@colechapman6976 100% agreed. I stopped getting them when it wasn’t the buttery 3.5 V6 that, while not world-changing fast, it was quick enough getting the RX to 60 in around 7 seconds without much fuss or whine. I cannot imagine the racket the four popper makes.

[@phermey]

@@colechapman6976 But hey.... you get a whopping 4.5 extra MPGs out of that four banger. Which is nothing to sneeze at I guess. But I'd rather keep the six.

[@KealeyOnCars]

*lexus driving signature intensifies*

[@mbenton6]

It's just quiet. It drives like shit

[@naveenthemachine]

It doesn’t even exist LOL. It’s not a real thing😂

[@TheG60528XiJinPing]

Lexus driving signature: two pedals, one wheel.

[@naveenthemachine]

@@TheG60528XiJinPing no. Lexus driving signature is a phony facade. It doesn’t exist🤣 I may as well say my car has its own version of “Lexus driving signature”. It doesn’t really exist but hey if Lexus can tout something that doesn’t exist exists then so can I because at the eod IT DOESNT EXIST😆

[@ruffmadman]

​​@@naveenthemachine it's you again. You do know that Hyundai/Kia don't pay you for dick-riding them in KZbin comment sections right? The "Lexus Driving Signature" as obnoxious as its marketing name is, exists, and it's one of the reasons why people choose the brand.

[@wellsbengston4132]

We traded a 2013 RX350 in on a 2024 RX450h+ last year. We have since put 7,500 miles on it, mostly on long road-trips, but have also experienced almost every type of driving possible in it except for snow and off-road. We have a few niggling complaints, but the engine and powertrain are not among those complaints. I feel that complaints about the engine are overblown. We don't even notice the engine 99% of the time, and that is exactly what we were hoping for. This vehicle is a dream on road-trips, and wonderful in the heavy traffic of the San Francisco Bay area. I have never felt less fatigued in any vehicle. It also does much better than the RX350 did on the twisty canyon roads we love. It is a revelation.

[@m.b8257]

I agree with Mark 100% Lexus is most definitely more long term reliability and that’s part of the reason people/I buy Lexus, I don’t have to replace it every three years.

[@christopherbice862]

Or it costs less to replace if you do because resale is better. Price vs Cost of ownership.

[@Shiinamusiclyricssubs]

I actually prefer the plastic wood veneer compared to piano black they usually use. Piano black is quite literally just glossy plastic. Fake or cheap wood is a thousand times better.

[@maweitao]

It's almost definitely a real wood veneer but with some finishes it can end up looking fake. Feel is also affected by thinness of the veneer and the backing material, which is probably always plastic.

[@tonyt5013]

I don't think at this price point, car manufacturers would be using real timber. Real wood in car dashboards of run of the mills cars were phased out in the late 90s, early 2000s due to cost

[@maweitao]

@@naveenthemachine What are you talking about? I was simply explaining how these things are made and how it can affect feel.

[@smar1208]

@@tonyt5013 e class/gle, 5 series/x5 and a6/q7 all have real wood

[@cpftank09]

Lexus owners generally keep their vehicles a very long time, at least 10yrs usually. For someone like that, it’s an investment that you can rely on and it has luxury. You can’t say the same about other vehicles in their respective class. Everyone knows how expensive European vehicles are to own when they’re 6-8 years or older, especially the high end luxury ones.

[@makatron]

And with Toyota reliability behind it is way easier to keep it that long.

[@valdius85]

Investment gives back the money. People buy Lexus because total cost of ownership is reasonable.

[@olafvanes]

The woodtrim looks like bamboo, but the plastic side bit gives it away. Jaguar did nice wood in the olden days.

[@Carnold_YT]

It is bamboo, on a plastic backing plate. This is how all woodtrim is supported.

[@matthewshultz8762]

Even Honda is able to do a faux wood better than this

[@hawkeytown]

@@frugalfamilyliving yah my gx has real wood as well. They used to get their wood from yamaha's piano division with laser etched and hand inlayed trim, i think the last gx or maybe the lx is the last one to get it though.

[@jeffer1101]

Part of what makes this so expensive is the large battery pack. If you like the vehicle aside from the lofty price, get the 350h, it's the same hybrid system, just regular hybrid instead of plug in hybrid. The expense of the battery is why EVs are so expensive. That battery is likely about $15k, so if it weren't for that, this vehicle would be in the high $50k range, which would be right where Jack and Mark would like it. The 450h means you are buying the 350h and a big battery for that EV experience.

[@machete152]

The 350h is quite a bit more than the 50k range from my searching

[@jeffer1101]

@@machete152 not really, it starts at $52,100 USD. Yes, it goes up from there depending on which packages you add, but my point was the main reason the 450h is so much money is due to the battery. Batteries are still very expensive and that likely won't change until the battery composition changes (we're likely still a few years away from that).

[@brkbtjunkie]

@@jeffer1101don’t forget inflation as well. My 2006 LX470 sold for 65k new back then. If you were to sell that same vehicle now today, adjusted for inflation, it would be priced right under $100k.

[@jumpierwolf]

Not really, the 450h+ has a more powerful electric motor compared to the 350h. The 450h+ has 58 more horsepower

[@jeffer1101]

@@jumpierwolf True, but the overall characteristics of the vehicle will still be similar. There likely won't be that much of a difference in feeling between the two of them. While 58HP isn't nothing, the 450h also weighs 243 pounds more.

[@theMLBfan]

16:48 It's worth repeating and I'm glad you keep bringing it up. Most others continue to shy away from criticizing some of these ridiculous price points we're getting lately.

[@thewhitecarrot]

That Lexus badge reliability will this vehicle before anything on its spec sheet and that in itself is a goal other manufacturers should strive to reach.

[@Jacobk66]

Door closing thing is so on point! I went by a Lexus dealer a couple weeks ago and looked at a RX and every time I shut the door it didn’t close unless I slammed it. I thought it was me.

[@BertGrange]

wrong.....

[@Aitch2810]

Nothing at all to do with the electonic door switch, all to do with last door closing on a beautifully sealed body - air pressure, see also Audi

[@demetriusmichael]

I remember every mom and their mother was driving the RX with the mirror tint. It was very iconic.

[@thomascochran1181]

I agree, $70k+ is absurd for these. Fortunately that’s what makes these such desirable on the used market. Even if they hold their value well, they make great used cars people want to hold onto for 10+ years.

[@fatman5377]

Unlike the Germans, you pay 70k and this thing will retire with you. The Germans at 90k will turn into a big wiring issue with a third engine replacement

[@anAmishGuy]

It's not what I'd spend 70 grand on in a million years, but it'll be comfortable and reliable, and you'll fit in perfectly at the country club and the carpool line at your kid's private school, plus maybe even get a little social credit from people who notice it's a plug-in hybrid, so that's what this car is for.

[@Boomtowndogs]

Nowhere near big enough. Wagoneer, Telluride, X7 is the private school parent with a CC meta. New LX will hit that crowd harder than an RX. This is for like late-career senior managers and wealthy white collar pacific immigrants from my anecdotal experience lmao

[@jasonjia1298]

I just bought my Lexus 450h+, which is the first Lexus brand I bought, after I test drove all luxury brands. One more reason I love is that it is made in Japan. In Northern California area, where I live, most of dealers have a markup of $1k over MSRP.

[@ZEPRATGERNODT]

I’ve purchased more black hand towels from Walmart to curb reflective light from the dash and console trim. This has been since carmakers have made large reflective dash tops, and trim prices that reflect sunlight back into the windshield and into your face…

[@user-vx7vi3vq1c]

😂

[@v33st]

I picked up my 450h+ in May last year and have had it for almost 12000km (7500 miles). Overall really happy with this phev as a family car. Quiet and refined and I have been getting 3,5l/per 100km (68mpg) overall since I mostly doing city driving on electricity and really efficient on long trips (6,5-7l/per 100km). Before the Lexus I had a Tesla model Y performance that I never really liked and before that a XC90 D4 which was a really nice car but I did not want to buy the same platform again as that 2018 car. Plan is to keep the car for 10 years as you say until some kids have moved out we'll see how it goes :) Here in Sweden the xc90/GLE/X5 plugins are about 20k dollars more than the RX 450h+ so I feel it has a pretty good price in comparison to those but ofc not cheap...

[@guseks8413]

The platform in this is pretty old in the Lexus too(current rav came out 2018) but the volvo is even older(2015 i think?). Price of the XC90 and this is pretty simillar, maybe max $5-7k difference depending on how you spec. They are both around 900k sek but the drivetrain in the Lexus is more efficient Im sure. If you have to run the Volvo on pure gas it easily takes 1l/100km in my experience even on long distance.

[@v33st]

Yes they increased the price with about 60k sek since I bought it. Did not care to much about the actual age of the platform. It was just “old” to me since I had the xc90 diesel for almost five years :)

[@gergelyturcsanyi6743]

​​@@guseks8413Does it matter how old the platform is? 🤦

[@p0r0sen0k]

How many real life km ev only you get?

[@guseks8413]

@@v33st Ah gotcha. I get the feeling. Amazed that Volvo has not done more to facelift their models. We recently picked up a MY24 XC60 hybrid and inside and out it feels the same as 4-5 years ago even with the google system.

[@babangill551]

That door thing is deal breaker for me. Thanks for pointing it out. You guys are the real one's.

[@tonyt5013]

The door handle design is basically carried thru with Lexus' other new SUV models. From the inside, apart from the conventional way of pulling the latch, one would need to place their palm over the door handle and press their thumb onto the latch and push the door out. It did take me a while in a new NX250 to understand how it's used. Mark is right about the struggle to shut the door from the outside. This is due to the door being rather light and the weatherstrips being fresh and yet to be pressed down. Our last gen RX450H had that issue, until the weatherstrips were worn in over time, so now it takes less effort to close the door from the outside

[@Mark-de4hj]

Oh that was what did it for you? You will no longer be getting an RX? LOL

[@Aitch2810]

Nothing at all to do with the electonic door switch, all to do with last door closing on a beautifully sealed body - air pressure, see also Audi

[@NoName-of8dq]

Love the summery, direct to the point.

[@asunjian5196]

1. That's not fake wood. It does have glossy protection over it. 2. The price is in line with the pricing of the NX 450h+ (minus $10k) and the RX 350h luxury (also minus $10k). Basically, you can say that the price of more luxury and space, or the price of the plug-in capability is worth around $10k The problem is they only offer the RX450h+ in luxury trim, AND most inventory also preload all the optional packages into it, along with the ML audio system, which normally bumps up the MSRP to $75k or so. Saying that, I got it and LOVE the thing. Beautiful car.

[@TJMizu]

Test drove one and test drove an mdx. Ended up getting an mdx. I wanted to love the Lexus so bad since the dealership experience was amazing but just couldn’t.

[@Feroce2023]

I did the same, but still like the Lexus, and I may still purchase in the future, but the prices on the phev is a bit steep.

[@theygotgunskorben3851]

good way to start a monday morning

[@kyrosmike]

I wish Toyota/Lexus with plugin hybrids would give you engine hours or miles on gas alone, it can vary how you drive the car. I have a rav4 Prime I have no idea how many miles are on the gas motor, or even its coolant temp since they removed that gauge to make it an battery % indicator.

[@richardnavratil9661]

I can guarantee you a simple OBDII scanner and an app will show you coolant temp quite easily, if you really want to know. The engine/idle/generator hours, I agree with you on that.

[@joe97nsx]

Thanks for the underside view. At 5:51 there is still the exposed connection for the Hybrid electric cable. Even in this $70k plus RX, I see that it doesn't look like Toyota has fixed the problem from their Cablegate issues which affects RAV4 hybrids, NX hybrids, Highlanders hyrbrids, Sienna hybrids, and Venza hybrids.

[@chibbyylol]

2023 onwards the cable design was updated and the housing has a drain and an additional cover now

[@joe97nsx]

@@chibbyylol Thanks. I was aware of this updated design. I still consider it a band-aid as it only allows escape of salt and water but does not prevent the exposure. There have already been incidents of some 2023s having corrosion issues. Not a problem if you live in non-snow regions, but in much of the northeast and mid-west, probably won't be great after a few years. New designs such as the Corolla Cross hybrid have the connection inside the trunk with no outside exposure and is a real solution.

[@valdius85]

“if it works, why fix it” 😂 It is becoming a well known issues in Europe as well.

[@Lousybarber]

Living in the Midwest I was wondering if all of those covers underneath the vehicle trap road salt in hard to get at places. The cars I have now do not have floor pan cladding. There are places for salt to hide on any vehicle but it seems much easier to do a thorough underbody cleaning without the covers.

[@bearbare2406]

Thank you for pointing the door latch nightmare, I have to always slam the doors shut.

[@Aitch2810]

Nothing at all to do with the electonic door switch, all to do with last door closing on a beautifully sealed body - air pressure, see also Audi

[@miketurco5282]

Nice review! I have been toying with the idea of an RX for a while, and was incredibly hopefully for the 450h+ but the lack of range plus the price tag has me reconsidering. The delta between the plug-in versus straight hybrid (350h) makes no sense. If we were double or triple the range for that $10-15k+ delta it would be a different conversation.

[@Jordan-ql8pv]

More range and power. Lexus has the Turbo 4cyl. They should use it in the plug in model. Especially if they are going to take away the V6.

[@HXCP907]

love the intro music.

[@vikikis]

B58 never disappoints.

[@mervinprone]

The wood trim is real - but it’s underneath a thick polyurethane in this redesign because in the last generation there were complaints by consumers it was getting damaged, by kids et al and required pricey visits to the dealership to replace it. I agree that the trim in the previous generation was gorgeous, especially the sapele wood with aluminum trim, made by Yamaha.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I thought the bamboo wood looked very nice on the previous GENRX. And I always thought that pretty much all the previous Gen RX’s had genuine wood trim.

[@TheBjjones]

@mervinprone At least it's not fake "Black Grained" wood trim like what's in the new TX.

[@codysmith3271]

But how did the Levinson test?!?

[@AmitPatel_.]

I think the ELS in the Acuras is much better.

[@AndrewMalkin]

That's what I'm wondering. They normally do a more in-depth breakdown of the audio

[@overbuiltlimited]

Was wondering that as well. We have a 2023 RX and the Levinson is amazing. It is a real highlight of the car. Very clear and accurate to my ears and bass is not muddy. We replaced our eighteen year old GX470 and wanted something a bit smaller and more updated while keeping the reliability. Nothing else on the market fit the bill.

[@theepanrealtorvaratharajan7497]

I had a 2010 Lexus Rx450h - unfortunately it was in a accident and totaled. Had it for 10 years+ it was one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. Only gripe was its heavy electric steering, and that I never spent enough time just appreciating its build quality, fit and finish, it was simply superb.

[@lucagattoni-celli1377]

This review is a great example of why we love the channel.

[@o_o-_-8639]

To an American perspective I do understand that this might not look as premium as others options, but from an European perspective this Rx is more convenient than most of the competitors. For example Mercedes offers a gle plug in hybrid with a 4 cyl (diesel/petrol) and let me tell you that even if it’s a Mercedes it doesn’t sound any better than the 4cyl from lexus sometimes in the diesel hybrid one is a bit annoying even the only positive side of the gle is the gearbox that it isn’t a cvt. Ps: the Mercedes gle full opt is 125/130k (plug in hybrid) , bmw x5 with the base engine full opt is 127/130k, audi q7 120k, vw touareg 118/120k, audi q8 127/130k. Somehow here premium cars are insanely more expensive and the Lexus rx 450 is 98k and the 500 in some countries is 100k and others is 110 so to sum it up here the lexus might look a bit more convenient.

[@cbatiau2528]

Not sure what currency you’re referring to… I’m looking at a 2024 GLE 450e for $73k USD, and it can go 68 miles in all-electric without the ICE coming on, according to testing by Kyle Conner…. Not as reliable as a Lexus statistically but same price as this one reviewed here

[@o_o-_-8639]

@@cbatiau2528 that’s true, and I am referring to the Euro € currency, for us is called either 400e or 350de and it starts at 98k and 94k respectively and it doesn’t even have apple car play.

[@mholmes9262]

My sis in law just bought this same car, a '24 model in whatever they call their black pearl color. She paid full price, Lexus said they had enough demand they didn't need to negotiate. I think the front end looks pretty nice. Personally, I have hated the spindle grille since it first debuted, but for better or worse, Lexus has stubbornly stuck with it and this latest iteration actually looks much better integrated and I think it looks distinguished without looking stupid like the early versions. I bet it's an absolute nightmare to fully clean all those little diamond shaped protrusions, though. But only offering 4-cyl engine options is a big miss for me, but I probably would not have this car on my shopping list, anyway. For my sis in law who was coming from a '14 RX350 with the V6, she is extremely happy with hers.

[@jtl5506]

Quick question, does the weight difference between regular hybrid and plug-in hybrid affects the ride quality & handling since it has fixed suspension?

[@deanh2574]

I own both the 2023 NX450h+ and the 2024 RX450h+ and enjoy them both. Your review is pretty much spot on regarding the RX but I haven't had any issues with the driver monitoring system that you mentioned. A critical factor (for me) is that the NX has run-flat tires and the RX has fix-a-flat. No way was I going to rely on a fix-a-flat kit, and I couldn't get a compact spare from Lexus for the RX so I had to go on-line and buy a spare tire/jack kit ($500+) for the RX so I don't get stranded with a flat tire. Even the dealer was surprised that the RX had a fix-a-flat and not run-flat tires. I enjoy both vehicles and my wife likes the NX a little bit better as its smaller size makes it easier for her to park and maneuver.

[@dcarts5616]

Damn! That’s almost $160,000 (cars, taxes, titles, fees, interest)on two cars in the last two years. What do you do for work to either pay cash or pay ≈$2700/month on car payment not counting probably $300+ more a month in car insurance?

[@JER-mw6md]

I'm legitimately surprised to see this comment. Runflats are terrible tires. They give you the worst of all worlds - louder, less comfortable, more expensive, and heavier.

[@gregb7353]

At $500 you can have almost 10 years of AAA service. Cell phones killed the spare tire and it's such a rare even too. In 40 years of driving with an average of 2x drivers any given year, I've only fixed 2 flats and only 1 where I needed the spare. The other held air well enough to get to the tire shop with a lithium pump I just keep in all my cars.

[@deanh2574]

I would normally agree with you as past vehicles I have owned had run-flats and the ride was not as smooth as non-run-flat tires, but honestly the NX run-flats provide a nice ride even here in the northeast where the roads can be terrible with potholes. I personally have no problem with the NX run-flat tire ride as the suspension is rather compliant and the harder side walls don't degrade the ride.@@JER-mw6md

[@deanh2574]

I'm retired and pay cash for all my vehicles. Was considering a Bentayga hybrid but the Bentayga was just way too big for us and the RX's size was much more comfortable. My car insurance is considerably lower than your estimate as I am retired and have a clean driving record. @@dcarts5616

[@anAmishGuy]

For wealthy people who don't really care about cars and just want something comfortable and reliable, and who probably won't even seriously cross-shop this with other $70,000 vehicles due to Lexus brand loyalty.

[@UhhhhhnooOOo00oO]

Wealthy people? You mean someone with a slight education with degrees equivalent pay. Sadly, this is a slightly above average standard vehicle for slightly above the average meat bag. My parents were teachers and had an ES350 and an RX350. Great lease deals, I'd never buy a car and we know how teachers are shit on and defunded in thus country. Investing and advance degree with experience pay can get a McDonald's worker easily one if these without a responsibility expenses. 600 a month isn't tough to afford. Maybe 650-700 for this crap. A PHEV is the vest way to go, just not a 70K plus mailed in vehicle like this. The Rav4 Prime was way ahead of its time, despite the Nickel Hydride battery and Toyota average interiors. Again, The Rav4 Prime, at retail (much luck) is a much better choice. The 450H should be on par with the regular RX350. Tax reduction that

[@naveenthemachine]

But the problem is that this isn’t a luxury suv It’s a Toyota+ car for people who have zero physical sense as to what luxury is

[@rahuljoshi7759]

Not exactly , so if you go to GCC countries where people are rich to the point where Hermes and Rolex is common shopping place , they all use lexus to go around. Their reply is surprising , you can drive this car however you want it still last and you don't have to go for service all the time. Fuck that . Even if you go to service for some issue at max 12 hrs to fix and you ll get it fixed the next day . Like when it comes to reliability , cost of spare parts this is absolute no brainer . Good luck maintaining a German Counter part . When you use it for "daily commute" , the ZF gearbox, air suspension and B58 don't matter , again daily commute

[@bassandtrebleclef]

@@UhhhhhnooOOo00oO I know several public school teachers in California making 100-155k. Cool story though.

[@kennethporter992]

​@@UhhhhhnooOOo00oOI don't know man. I have an advanced degree, make more than many school teachers & I can't afford this. It would be a serious stretch

[@stephenwinter8892]

Greetings from southern Ontario Canada home of the 2 tmmc plants in Cambridge and Woodstock Ontario thanks for the presentation

[@tomazs3348]

Thank you for another great review. It's interesting to note the difference in car prices between the US and Europe. For instance, a base model Lexus RX450h+ costs about 70k USD in the US, which might seem expensive. However, in Europe, the same car is priced at around 90k EUR, equivalent to approximately 97k USD. Considering salary levels in Europe... well, that's another discussion.

[@gadeane287]

I would buy the RAV4 instead of this if it had a Mark Levinson audio system in it.

[@beexiong2995]

The rav4 will probably be more tinny sounding with less sound deadening or insulating lol. Ive always found rav4s to be like rattle boxes

[@frumpd63]

People should go research the heating problems that Toyota's heat pumps have near freezing. There is no way to remote start below 20F because the heat pump doesnt work that low and it cant start the ICE engine. We are ready to ditch our Model Y but the Tesla heat pump has been flawless and supremely convenient at all temps.

[@Cal94]

tbf, volvo PHEVs also don't like remote starting off plug in the cold, and volvo uses a resistive heater. no idea why. I know the cars are smart enough to switch on the ICE if they run out of battery preconditioning. they just chose to not turn on at all without wall power. but of all the luxury PHEVs, those volvo and toyota are the only two brands i'd buy (toyota cause they do it best, volvo cause the T8 drivetrain+SPA platform is ancient at this point)

[@gambiting]

@@Cal94My 2020 T8 is fortunately the last model with the webasto instead of an electric heater, so remote preheat always works, I've been using it literally in -27C weather last year and it was fine. Love that thing, I thought I'd trade it in after 3-4 years but I've decided I'm going to keep it long term. It's completely trouble free so far too.

[@tomlee45]

is the plug in hybrid even sold in the IL? when I bought the NXh, but i wanted the plug in hybrid but lexus was only shipping these cars to zero emission states. (this was quoted by the dealer at the time) aka CA for instance.

[@jrod237]

Great video and copious amounts of details👍🏼 This Lexus product make me question, when did automobiles become like mobile phones? Why own a phone when you can lease it?! Ha!

[@benoit.b9337]

Still think the 350h will be the way to go for a while to come.

[@naveenthemachine]

No it’s not. The 350h is fuel efficient but why even bother?

[@Feroce2023]

@@naveenthemachine It is useful to avoid buying a BMW and then having it in the shop most of the time you own it. Why do you think 350h has such good resale value, and the german competition is so much cheaper when used?

[@naveenthemachine]

@@Feroce2023 the 350h is not a luxury product. It’s a rav4 w lipstick

[@JollyGiant19]

@@naveenthemachineIs this cope?

[@hryou1]

@@naveenthemachinehey man it has been a while man!!

[@MXWZJZ]

think about how frustrated you can be, when you just took delivery of your long 14months waited RX and it got stolen in a supermarket parking next day in Toronto

[@aradam29781]

Love Lexus have owned many over the years still have my 03 es300, 05 gx470, 17 es300h and a 17 rx450h love the es300h super comfy and super reliable 121k not 1 issue yet I don't find the 4 cylinder intrusive at all and the rx450h is a dream cloud to drive, I own other cars from RAM and Dodge and Jeep as well but I find the 4 cylinder in the new Toyota and Lexus to not be as muted as I like the V6 in rx450h quiet and powerful not sure if the 4 cylinder can compare is my reasoning for not buying new Lexus plug-in for now

[@wayneh1562]

love the looks of this vehicle

[@Closertotruth2]

Watching this makes me want to go buy a GX 460 before they are gone.

[@Jordan-ql8pv]

The new GX looks sick and has the turbo v6 motor.

[@chowchow3335]

This drive trim should be in grand highlander too

[@bextar6365]

Don't like those bulging sweeping side panels, The Highlanders are even more pronounced. JMO

[@Affalterbach1967]

4:14. +1 for captions, post-drive pre-detailed underbody.

[@afrostigmeister]

We need a counter for whenever Jack mentions BMW's 'BeefEating-8' !!😎

[@hereigoagain5050]

Curse you Tesla for introducing fancy door handles! My 13 year old door handles work perfectly, even in snow and ice.

[@Largecow_Moobeast]

Plug in hybrid is such an easier pill to swallow as a driver that wants ICE flexibility and something that is really efficient. Drawbacks are price and they are difficult to make. It's hard to find one of these or the smaller NX 450h+.

[@MuitoDaora]

The most unreliable cars of 2023 were plugin hybrids, more than EVs according to the annual consumer report.

[@user-vx7vi3vq1c]

@@MuitoDaoraTesla was #28 on the JD Powers list for reliability. Imagine that, an unreliable EV. Consumer reports put Tesla #14 on their list. Lexus and Toyota were #1 and #2 respectively.

[@isherpa]

Please review the 2024 X5 50e!

[@dieseldan420ca]

Always wish Lexus would put their IS/GS-F V8 into a performance based crossover. I had to settle on an Infiniti FX50S.

[@Nick210]

We’ve had a TON of Lexus products but this really is a hard sell at 70K.

[@naveenthemachine]

Except the lc500 any Lexus product is a hard sell😂

[@Feroce2023]

I agree, way too expensive!

[@Bigoliver101]

LX and LS are worth it@@naveenthemachine

[@naveenthemachine]

@@Bigoliver101 lx600 is definitely not one of them 😆 Nor is the LS. The LS is ancient and cramped and not as luxurious in design and features are old The lx looks ugly outside, interior is as outdated as an Infiniti qx50 / qx55, the tech is dated, no features, useless back seats, poor driving experience, and it’s way overpriced

[@kkgolf5371]

KIA EV9 three row EV more than 70k

[@u2oasis]

We have Nx450h+, and we are delighted with it. We only use gas when we do long drives. Otherwise, the plug-in range is enough for our daily needs. Owned it for 15 months and have filled it up maybe five times. Super smooth on the electric range and no stress when beyond as we can pull into a gas station. Giving feedback on the drive train only, the Rx sounds better in certain areas than an Nx. We prefer a smaller car at this point. And the main reason I went with the Lexus is that I will keep it for 8-10 years. I am willing to pay extra for that piece of mind.

[@venelinkeremedchiev9643]

If i were You, i would ask my local Lexus how often should i run the car on gas so i won't damage the fuel system/engine...

[@u2oasis]

@@venelinkeremedchiev9643 The car always has at least half a tank of gas. We decided not to keep it at full to save the weight. But also you have to have gas as the engine will come on when you try to accelerate fast and when you go above a certain speed and other situations. Also the car determines when it should burn some gas so it will start the engine even if fully charged.

[@b00lsheet]

@10:43 I'm sad that Jack didn't send it through that corner like Mark did the Rav4 Prime, I was curious if it handles better.

[@grisa12345]

Owner of a 2023 RX500h here. The price tag is less relevant when you factor in resale. You’re not losing as much money as you would with an X5 for example. Speaking for myself, my purchase of the vehicle was based on reliability, resale, overall functionality, some fun to drive elements and I do like the style of it. I looked at many other OEMs, BMW, Benz, etc., and found the Lexus to be a better product. Also, dealerships may differ, but my experience at my local Lexus dealership is typically excellent, and that can’t be said for the other premium brand dealerships in my area.

[@masterwhopper414]

You sound unintelligent. The whole point of buying a Lexus is keeping it long term for its reliability - resale value is irrelevant

[@grisa12345]

@@masterwhopper414 Oh man, the irony in your comment.

[@masterwhopper414]

@@grisa12345 if you can't argue my point, then you're just another typical Toyota fanboy who can't stand any criticism Grow up

[@ARentz07]

​@@masterwhopper414 Long term != forever. Eventually, it will go, and when it does, resale matters.

[@alextapia8585]

⁠​⁠@@masterwhopper414that’s the whole point. Long term, meaning when he does sell it, resale value stays high.

[@jazzjokesjalopies]

It plugs right in to your wallet.

[@DCuerpoJr]

I’d only trust Toyota/Lexus with a hybrid vehicle. My employer has a fleet of Ford Escapes and Toyota RAV4 hybrids. Nothing but problems with the Ford hybrid system, even though it was based on Toyota’s. The regenerative braking fails and are thousands to repair.

[@joespittle1]

I detailed one of these a few weeks ago and it was certainly quite good. I think if you don't really think to deeply about cars but still want a luxury item, this is great for you. You can certainly tell where they cheaped out. If you were to step directly from an RX into an X5/Q7/GLE, it would feel significantly less premium inside. I didn't really notice the door handle situation to be that bad, yes soft-close would help make it a bit more natural but once I got used to them it was fine. While I didn't drive it very far, I will say that the 4 cylinder engine sounds pretty gruff. A V6 would not have gone amiss here. I would probably take a good look into the new CX-70 instead

[@ab-nz2mm]

when will there be a new GX review? @savagegeese

[@gianniclaud]

Very disappointing to see a decline in materials quality, and maybe even general build quality with the clunky doors.

[@navilupets]

70k that's crazy , you can get lightly used macan s for that. If you are spending 70+k for a car you probably don't care about mpg.

[@JollyGiant19]

A Macan? That thing might as well be a Dodge Challenger with the back seats it has, they’re child sized!

[@danielmarson1131]

How was the Mark Levinson?

[@e.o9470]

2:14 That’s Ash Bamboo Wood and it’s very durable under sunlight and to heat and grease/cracks Lexus materials are really nice.

[@user-zj6mv6eg8q]

I have noticed Lexus prices have been constantly increasing but their quality and luxury have been declining year by year. What is happening to lexus luxury?

[@naveenthemachine]

I know. They’re trying to go out of business 😂

[@tonysterbenc]

@@naveenthemachine Naveen, yet another in your long string of anti-Lexus trash posts. Yes, we know you have a Camry XSE. Yes, we know you think it's "just as good as a Lexus." Yes, we've heard your repeated (and false) assertions that Genesis is outselling Lexus. Stop embarrassing yourself.

[@naveenthemachine]

@@tonysterbenc any Lexus? I know the Camry is superior to the ux and nx. I’ve driven both as loaners to make that decision

[@tonysterbenc]

@@naveenthemachine And you've said the ES "is a Camry." You just insist on digging yourself in deeper, don't you?

[@naveenthemachine]

@@tonysterbenc it’s a slightly nicer Camry LOL The es isn’t much nicer inside. It’s not like it’s a completely different planet vs the Camry.

[@marantamil459]

We are currently in a dilemma for our next car. Base Porsche Cayenne Hybrid, Merc Gle 400E Top Spec, BMW X5 50e Top Spec vs Lexus RX450h+ Takumi. Which would you recommend, we'll keep the car for roughly 4 years?

[@henrybrar]

X5 50e have my vote.

[@ryudraco]

Agreed, it will be a better experience than the Mercedes, you don’t need that Lexus longevity and honestly the Porsche will most likely only be marginally better for a lot more money.

[@ZEPRATGERNODT]

You sir are the perfect client for car manufacturers!!! The conversation in automotive company boardrooms, since the late 90’s, is to only manufacture cars to give the fewest problems for the duration of the typical automotive lease. Mercedes and Toyota changed their engineering and budget philosophy in the mid 90’s and for 1997 Toyota started saving around $2000 (per built car) at the manufacturing level and by 1998 Mercedes-Benz was on the same page. Porsche followed the same philosophy around the same time just before the release of SUV’s…etc. Most of the changes came upon the advice of Japanese consulting firms who were contracted to help the above manufacturers how to be for efficient in manufacturing and assembly. Toyota was more motivated to cut back after reverse engineering the Ford Taurus in the mid 90’s. All vehicles took the hit, trucks included. This is why 1979-1996 Toyota vehicles are known to be on the road or last longer than most vehicles on the planet. The budget given to create the Lexus brand in the late 80’s owed to overbuilt Toyota Camrys. Especially the 1992-1996 models as they were the product of what was budgeted for the release of the ES200/ES300 (X/XV Chassis).

[@zukacs]

porsche/bmw if you like driving lexus/mercedes if you just need a car

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Lol, any of them. Pick the one you like the most. Since long term reliability isn't a factor and each of these will develop anal leakage starting in year 5.

[@teddypark9832]

That door thing was very helpful. That would drive me bat shit crazy

[@spynles7947]

Savage EV's, consistently consistent.

[@j.redbeard99]

Most of the new RX's I see around town are 350's with the turbo four, and appear to be driven by Boomers or older. Do their aged buyers just want the cheapest RX? Do they dislike hybrids? Do they think it's a V6? A good review from Savage Geese as always.

[@user-qc7dr3cd3q]

Dislike hybrids.

[@colechapman6976]

My parents have an RX. They are 56 years old and worked in marketing and finance in NYC. They are also educated and empty nesters, basically the perfect demographic for buying one of these things. Although they have a 2016 which has Toyota's reliable V6 engine. The new RX honestly seems like a letdown with a four-cylinder turbo engine. It will be rattly which is a shame for a car that's known for a quite accommodating ride which is why people buy them.

[@oneblach]

Due to high demand for hybrids, non-hybrids are more readily available and don’t cost more than the MSRP

[@JollyGiant19]

It’s hard to get the hybrids unless you pay over MSRP or wait a loooong time

[@janoycresnova9156]

Hybrids and plug in hybrids really aren't worth it for vast majority of buyers regardless their age.

[@francowabongo]

People now understand that the real cost of a car is the purchase price minus the resale price. Lexus makes that real cost very small because of their reliability and economy (things that used car buyers care about) So a lexus that goes for 70 grand is actually much cheaper than a BMW that goes for 70 grand

[@leobuckey]

11:50 is the RX really a competitor to the x5? I’ve always considered it against the x3

[@jackholmes8105]

Size and price. The x3 competes with the nx technically

[@MechayaAlta]

In the 11/29/2023 CR online edition, the Subaru Crosstrek was given a 99/100 for predicted reliability. I believe this was higher than any Toyota/Lexus hybrid at about 1/3 the price of this car.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

RX is an appropriate name considering most customers will be taking this to the pharmacy often.

[@Gogoterps]

That door handle issue is inexcusable at any price point

[@Jordan-ql8pv]

Their older handle was like a piece of art. Not sure what their interior designers were thinking this time around.

[@yamafanboy]

I think there are some valid grievances here regarding the safety systems with the false alerts and a huge pet peeve of mine which is the lack of soft close doors. Where I fully disagree is on the air ride issue. I don't think air ride is mandatory for a luxurious feeling suspension with excellent bump and vibration isolation. The real "luxury" benefit of air ride is having the option to change the ride and handling dynamics of the vehicle depending on your desire at the time. However this isn't appealing to some buyers who have other vehicles that are more sporty and were dedicated purchases for the purpose of "scratching that itch". The final point with some validity is the 4cyl and its lack of refinement but this is really more of a toyota issue than a 4cyl issue. Toyota obviously does not see it as economically feasible to re-eingineer and redesign the induction and exhaust systems for the engine as well as the engine mounts. These are almost certainly the main culprits contributing to the perceived "lack of refinement"

[@Joshuayan3375]

Can anybody please tell me what piece it is when we enter the driving impressions section😭😭

[@shanecoleman2937]

I cross-shopped the X3/Q5/NX/XC60 PHEV's recently. I wound up with the NX. A few things that stuck out: - yeah the Lexus I4 is extremely rattly compared to the competition - the Germans overstated their E range. Lexus did the opposite. I would bet money that the RX450h+ will average more E range than the X5 50e - the doorhandles on my NX don't have a delay, maybe a manufacturing issue with the press car? - $ for $, the X5 50e is about $80K loaded vs $73 for the RX before delivery costs. with that said, Lexus does not allow customers to order vehicles, so perhaps this is a moot point. - I absolutely do not trust a German product to last as long as their Japanese competitor. The B58 has proven fine so far, but there's also the ancillary shit that breaks. At least with a Q5, if a wheel bearing shits out, Audi sources their stuff from VW, so it can be fixed at reasonable cost. The same for Lexus and Toyota. I see economy parts-sharing as a positive.

[@faheemabbas3965]

I genuinely wonder if the idea of “reliable luxury” is going to be somewhat dead with Lexus going with smaller engines in their bigger cars.

[@JollyGiant19]

Maybe for the gassers though the hybrids will be as good as the old ones. I’ve seen beater Priuses get up to that coveted 300k mark. Will they go a million? Yet to be seen but nothing to indicate no at the moment.

[@lukewalker1051]

Read my thread. The public has to get smarter and you wonder why 1/3 of America is in debt. The fleecing of America relying on consumer ignorance.

[@bigcjm]

The highlander has had a 4cyl engine available for over 12 years. That's a big vehicle that's had a small engine available in it and it's still top marks in reliability. If you design the engine for the workload it shouldn't be a problem.

[@maweitao]

Displacement and cylinder count are not synonymous with reliability. Some of the most reliable engines ever made are Toyota 4-cylinders.

[@Feroce2023]

I am a bit worried about this too, just because Lexus is proven to be reliable, that doesn't mean this will remain true if you change all major parts....

[@gocepetrovski3933]

When talking X5 luxury, they fail in few areas too for the price point. No reclining rear seats? Rear legroom? And to my knowledge the 50e fully or equivalent loaded is around $90K?

[@naveenthemachine]

But those are minor. Because the x5 does so many other things well

[@benicia21]

3:26 - talk about lag. everything digital in cars has a little bit of lag, and it drives me crazy. because my older (2014) cars with physical buttons have no lag at all, but the new cars, even with a physical volume button, have a lag, ninth ink because they physical button is not actually a physical button.

[@FSX239]

The Koreans come with a 10/100,000 warranty. So I think people will keep a GV80

[@naveenthemachine]

Agreed. I’d get the gv80 over this RAV4

[@FSX239]

@@naveenthemachine agreed.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

That warranty is just for the engine and transmission, right? If the heater core, water pump, etc fail in year 6, that's on the buyer, right? The 100k warranty is not bumper to bumper iirc

[@FSX239]

@@bassandtrebleclef correct the Koreans provide a really long powertrain warranty

[@chibbyylol]

it's a good warranty but there are stories of warranty work being rejected for even the smallest things; hopefully have a decent dealership around that honors it

[@GeorgeGeo]

Plain and simple.. want a luxury SUV.. get a Lexus. I miss mine and will probably look at one of these again

[@naveenthemachine]

This isn’t a luxury suv. This suv is the joke of the segment

[@dr._breens_beard]

​@@naveenthemachinea bigger joke is that bmw and mercedes only feels luxury because ur gonna be waiting on a tow so often it damn well better be

[@naveenthemachine]

@@dr._breens_beard bmw Mercedes feel like true luxury cars in design interior materials fit finish tech luxury features driving experience ride comfort etc. the RX just looks and feels like a rav4

[@dr._breens_beard]

@@naveenthemachine good, id be pissed to if constant major mechanical issues forced significant waiting periods in a non-plush "luxury vehicle."

[@naveenthemachine]

@@dr._breens_beard you’re not going to have issues from day 1. BMW Mercedes are reliable these days since no one keeps their cars that long

[@iana36s]

What happens once the battery is dead on a long trip. How does just the gas engine do

[@Ridcul]

Would this compete with the Volvo xc60 phev? Will there be an xc60 review?

[@naveenthemachine]

Xc60 mops the RX inside and out

[@user-vx7vi3vq1c]

Ridcul, compare Volvo reliability to Lexus reliability.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

@@naveenthemachine the base xc60 feels like an economy product. Higher trims do not.

[@naveenthemachine]

@@bassandtrebleclef but the base xc60 PHEV is cheaper than the rx450h yet it’s so much faster and better driving

[@AKK5I]

Wonder when you guys will get your hands on a BMW xDrive45e so you can experience the hybrid power of the BEEE-FIFTY-EIGHT married to ELECTRIC POWER

[@dand5829]

Well for one, it’s kinda slow. And two, the X5 45e is no longer sold so it’s unlikely they’ll ever review it.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

A more complex bmw with hybrid drivetrain sounds like a good idea.

[@tylerwood67]

I miss Turbowski😢

[@David_Journey]

While cars were mechanical - his comments were relevant. The more electrified and complex cars got, the more Turbowski's comments stopped adding value. I hope he is doing good, but I welcome his absence in favor of in-depth analysis based on engineering interviews.

[@JBlakeS23]

Lexus/toyota do a great job by ensuring reliability across the board with every model.

[@GHinWI]

Lincoln Corsair PHEV is 55-60k. Admittedly the battery is a bit smaller, but a lot more conventional in terms of styling and interior for people who just want “normal”.

[@MarkRVillano]

I'll take Formica, fake aluminum, crappy wood veneer, or even rusty tin can trim .... ANYTHING but piano black!!!

[@enzoTHEferrari]

This RX generation is such a let down with the loss of the V6.

[@faheemabbas3965]

I wonder if “reliable luxury” is dead with Lexus going for smaller engines and planned obsolescence dash controls.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Agreed. RXs of the past had a silkiness that this one doesn't have after 38 miles.

[@enzoTHEferrari]

@@faheemabbas3965 I won’t call it dead, but it’s definitely gonna be worse than NA engines. My 2017 RX done over 280,000 km without a single issue. Doubt any overtuned, turbocharged, hybrid plugin, 4 cylinder engine can last as much, specially in the hot and dusty desert weather I live in.

[@sammydavis991]

Not really

[@bradleyscarreviews]

You guys need to check out the GLE450e