Here's Why The Seven Year Old Lexus RX450h Can Teach Today's SUVs a Few Tricks

In today's video, I talk about what it has been like to live with the (soon to be discontinued) Lexus RX450h. The best selling luxury SUV in America, we barely buy them in Europe - but is there a reason why?
#Lexus #RX450
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[@tcat0211]

Friend of mine bought a used RX350 with 100k km. He drove the hell out of it for over a decade, putting on another half million km before selling it. Other than consumables, he changed nothing else other than a set of mufflers. Then bought a Range Rover since he missed going to the dealer

[@praveenhegde8107]

He must have really missed the dealers.

[@bibalnasaha2534]

A range rover? he might as well get a bunk bed over at the dealer

[@Beer_Dad1975]

So not a man who learns from experience then...

[@tcat0211]

@@Beer_Dad1975 well he also got lucky with the FIRST year Chris Bangle 7 series which had no issues whatsoever for a decade (i have NEVER known anyone else who can claim that) so he's upped the ante lol

[@tcat0211]

@@bibalnasaha2534 that, or another one so he can get himself to and fro

[@HalalFoodTherapy]

Once you own a Lexus it's tough to go back. I sold my 2020 Merc GLE for a 2013 Lexus GS 450h and never looked back. Probably gonna get the RX next. Lexus makes amazing cars, you need to own one to appreciate it!

[@carspiv]

The GS 450h just might be the finest sedan ever made. 34 MPG hwy, 31 combined, with 337 hp. It bolts off the line. We were fortunate enough to have a couple of them as service loaner vehicles at the dealership I work at, and EVERYBODY who drove one came back and asked if they could buy THAT car. One drawback (at least in the snowy northeast): Rear wheel drive.

[@HalalFoodTherapy]

@@carspiv I can testify to that. My dad has the new 5 series and that is nothing close to a 9 year old Lexus gs I had.

[@rodrogers6895]

I have a 2007 Lexus ES 350 with just about 200,000 miles. I fully expected to go to 300,000 or even more miles. Minor maintenance has been required. I will drive it till it’s dust or I die.

[@pete3198]

Interestingly my experience was the opposite - I owned a Lexus (2003 model IS200) and it forever put me off ever wanting to try another Lexus again. :( Dangerous mechanical/electrical glitches, frustrating quality issues that you really dont expect to see on a Lexus, sub-par driving experience in many ways and outrageouos running costs (relative to what it was) combined to make it one of the most disappointing vehicle ownership experiences of my life. It tarnished my perception of the Lexus badge in a huge way and has really turned me right off the brand. Poor interior quality and design in a lot of subsequent models I've been in have only further pushed me away.

[@nxvx9208]

@@pete3198 you are talking about an entry level relatively new model car from the 2000’s. The gla and a class got the same complaints 15 years later

[@HiddenWen]

I'm a petrolhead and I love Lexus products. I own an ES300h. It doesn't have a badass V6/V8, doesn't handle like a beast, but it's nearly perfect at being a daily driver. Lexus reliability and quality is not overhyped, it's a fine car.

[@techyd8411]

Same for me with an IS300h

[@Beer_Dad1975]

I have a GS460, so does have a "badass v8" (probably not by internet standards, but 355bhp is plenty for me) - but same thing - reliability, (97,000km problem free) quality (the steering wheel in particular - just perfect IMO - not stupidly thick like all the German V8 performance saloons I've driven) - actually all the leather is amazing, even the plastics ooze quality.

[@CarShopping101]

Same for my 2013 GS 350 AWD although it's a gas guzzler (about 20 miles per US gallon) but plenty quick

[@HiddenWen]

@@Beer_Dad1975 Hold onto it, the GS is already discontinued. This will be a rare car on the road in the near future.

[@syande11]

You said it. I love my RX450H too. Just enjoy the quietness and do not feel the gear shifts at all. Does not seem like a 3.5 Ltr V6 beneath and the mass it carries.

[@kcyt6476]

You didn’t mention how the windows close. The motor slows down just before it reaches the top and closes with a gradual motion. The engineering is fantastic. 2019 RX450h.

[@segersivor9101]

I also missed this part. Softest mechanism I’ve heard.

[@gegwen7440]

The RX 450h is a very relaxing car to drive (very) and if on good tarmac is as quiet as a mouse. I wish I had driven this brand many years ago as I would have saved myself so much stress.

[@jhayes1776]

Petrol head here, and the RX is one of the best cars I've ever owned.

[@lenoracooper7729]

Hi there, what year is yours?

[@ckm-mkc]

People here in the US love these because of exactly what you said "big journeys" - I once drove 400 miles in a day just going from meeting to meeting in my region. A 9 hour drive to a weekend destination is not unusual. We've driven 17 hours in a single one-way trip..... High MPG, space, reliable and not too big. The only downside is that they are expensive and boring.

[@qtben17]

Boring for sure. I got the 21 nx fsport , a little less boring

[@User-cb4jm]

They’re not meant to be sporty. They’re meant to be like a Cadillac but actually reliable.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@User-cb4jm the new cadillacs are actually trying to be "sporty" LOL

[@moeflores2358]

That strange I don’t find my Lexus boring or expensive,I find it comfortable an reliable. Expensive 😂 Well that’s the difference in driving a Lexus then any other SUV.

[@dion9146]

We just bought a brand new RX. I’m a petrolhead, my other two cars are a Porsche Boxster and BMW M3 convertible, and this is my luxury escape car.

[@oddities-whatnot]

Cash or finance ?

[@davepaturno4290]

Our RX hybrid is now 17 years old, still gets very good fuel mileage (especially during city driving), and has had excellent reliability. It is quiet, smooth-riding, and has quite a few amenities. 0-60 MPH is 6.6 seconds (Car&Driver magazine)

[@RevLexus]

is that the RX 400h? I used to have a Mk2 Lexus RX 300 and it rode so smooth on the roads and the arm chair like front seats were amazing

[@davepaturno4290]

@@RevLexus Yes, we were among the first groups in the city to get one in April of 2005. I think the wait time was about 8-12 months.

[@RevLexus]

@@davepaturno4290 yeah I can imagine! I waited about 8 months in 2019 for the new CT 200h.

[@davepaturno4290]

@@RevLexus Was that in 2011? That's the year it was introduced for sale in the US.

[@RevLexus]

@@davepaturno4290 No I had to wait 8 months for the CT to get build in 2019 for it to arrive new from factory.

[@texlad04]

In the US, these models are pretty rare. We mainly get the 3.5 without the hybrid drive and a conventional smooth automatic. These RX vehicles often end up being passed down in families and many here have 200,000 or more miles and still work as a daily driver. The original RX basically defines the segment. And Lexus marketing here includes sponsorship of facilities and parking garages. Yes, that's right. You buy a smooth kind of boring family hauler and you get VIP parking in the Dallas Arts District and at the major sports stadiums where the football and baseball teams play. And the dealer network is relatively good.

[@anthonyblore1651]

I was in the US earlier this month. As an RX owner I noticed every model I saw was a 350, didn't see a single 450h. Who cares though with fuel 2-3 times cheaper than here in the UK!

[@RevLexus]

@@anthonyblore1651 that is true, if the American's were paying our fuel prices they would be in hybrids

[@susank9725]

I just purchased a 2021 RX 450h here in Denver. I might add that I noticed sooooo many out there since I bought mine. So, not sure why everyone is saying they aren’t aware of the 450h here in the US. Perhaps they live in smaller cities

[@mik3ad]

Days after watching this review I went food shopping and drove into a Lexus dealer which was on my way home. Looked at one of these and trading in my BMW 440i on an impulse, same day. Days after my wife asked if I was regretting the decision. To be honest was not sure. A month later I know I made the right choice. I now get the CVT gearbox and it not an issue for me, even coming form a ZF 8 speed and the car is much cheaper so far to run. No regrets!

[@spravcecedrova5991]

agree, it takes a short while to appreciate the CVT. In combination with 3,5l, 6 cylinder and RX soundisolation, I actually really like it now. I have tried newer NX (i like the way it looks) however the 4 cylinder sound and overall experience was inferior. Pity they are done with 6 cylinder and now you only get 4 cylinders even on the RX.

[@eddy45686]

Is the ZF not smoother and did you not miss the handling of the 440i and power??

[@BobbyDeniroX]

​@@eddy45686 What handling exactly on the road lexus performs just as good if not better. It's the track where the beemer may show it's worth. But I have beaten E46 M3 in races with a lexus is250 sel It blew the M3

[@eddy45686]

Highly unlikely the 250 beat M3 as diff performance is too great. Unless ur 250 was modded to hell

[@conner.9262]

Great overview…. Understated luxury….. the only way to travel, love the bright fresh interior, how people can spec a black boarding dreary interior baffles me ! Gets my vote 👍

[@supervitz7178]

I think you nailed this video. I've recently gone from sports coupes and hatchbacks to a GS450H for an everyday car. (still got a Celica track car so still a petrolhead -promise). A lot of the stuff you said applies to the GS too, it's got the same engine, but a different eCVT so it's only RWD. I love keeping it in electric mode because it feels so luxurious, it's truly a high quality machine. Mines on 120k miles already and feels solid. The GS manages 0-60mph in 5.7 seconds so it's still able to scramble away and get up to illegal speeds pretty briskly. I bought it because I was tired of uncomfortable and loud daily drivers that would make me feel bad when giving a lift to friends and family, glad I went for a Lexus hybrid saloon over any of the Germans.

[@numbersix8336]

I’ve driven one of these through London on a few occasions and a few motorway runs of a couple of hours each way, the most relaxing car I’ve been lucky enough to drive. This and a £2500 B road hero are all you need.

[@bondjamesbond9041]

The Americans are a lot more particular than the Europeans when it comes to luxury cars. They buy Lexus because they know that they are getting a very well built reliable car. The German brands are not a patch on Lexus when it comes to reliability, customer service and build quality. Lexus make the best luxury cars. Don't care what anyone says. NB I am a massive petrol head! Good review thanks

[@reggiesaidit513]

Interesting point of view . As a American that owns two lexus vehicles. I have to agree with you , but what no one mentions is that Lexus vehicles are very boring to drive . Under no circumstance will I buy a German car , because of the relatability. But I do also own two Jaguars , for the opposite reason that I own my Lexus cars 🤣

[@bondjamesbond9041]

@@reggiesaidit513 Lexus LC is not boring!!! Lexus are the best luxury car. The ES is wonderful to drive and be in.

[@philipbanner968]

Regarding the 5mph increments on the cruise control. If you hold the cruise control selector button down for 2 secs, you enter normal cruise control mode (not radar) with one mph icrements.

[@robertbuckland9637]

I don't often make comment on anything on the internet. But with this channel, I have watched as many videos as I can because I really enjoy both the subject matter and the delivery of them. Straight talking, informative and entertaining. I love finding out about cars I cannot currently afford and I appreciate the honest and broad-minded approach to humble or left-field cars that others are quick to sneer at. This is my favourite channel on KZbin.

[@angusm205]

Great review, so many ignore the Japanese cars especially Lexus it’s great to see you give them the attention they deserve. Keep up the good work

[@williamfan1985]

Finally, a non-bias review, most peoples review would begin and end with not as good as the Europeans and left at it. Without taking a closer look. Absolutely on point about full electric RX, whenever i drive the car on battery power i keep thinking, how nice would it be if it stays this quiet at all time. But this will do for now, can't wait and EV RX

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yeah an electric one of these would be fab

[@barrydraper]

My 2016 RX350 has the "Luxury Package" (loaded out) and has been super reliable. It doesn't drive like an Audi, BMW or Range Rover, but it's the most relaxing road-trip vehicle you could imagine and there are countless RX's that are still on the road here in the US for well over 15-20 years, unlike most of the competition. It must be a Toyota thing...

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I love taking my 2010 RX on road trips!

[@stonepa]

I have a 2007 RX400h with 240k miles. Still runs and drives like new, with just normal maintenance.

[@barrydraper]

@@stonepa That would be amazing if it were any other vehicle than a LEXUS. Instead, it's almost expected.

[@plaubelmakina8916]

Love my 2014 and is my first Lexus. I am hooked and now it’s Lexus for Life.

[@pelerinc]

My 1999 RX300 is still running reasonably well, despite the rust from the Minnesota weather and excessive road salt.

[@k20ee96]

I have a 2012 model, it's an incredible family car that can happily tow my race car to the track. It's quality and reliability are outstanding and the smooth petrol V6 is brilliant, I'd never go back to a diesel SUV now. It just feels like a really unique and interesting thing to use despite lack of dynamic capabilities. The CVT is a bit crap but you get used to it, atleast there's a nice v6 to listen to when it's revving it's nuts off up a hill 😂

[@thamimaluki7586]

You do the best reviews mate. I was on the fence between replacing my aging Q5 with the Velar, RX and XC60 or X3. Now you've convinced me to go for the RX. South Africa.🇿🇦

[@santileonsteinberg1441]

Crazy to think this is 7 years old, it looks like a brand new car! That interior looks beautiful too

[@chawenhalo0089]

I'm loving my NX300h facelift. Even in basic 2wd trim you don't feel cheated. After 20yrs if BMWs and one A8, I'm also really liking the ownership experience. It's cheap to run, comfortable, good size, stylish both in and out (my last BMW was an e91 330xd LCI mpak) nimble and plenty enough dynamic for daily and varied driving.

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, Lexus always seem to do things their own way, & hasn't hurt them so far! 🙏

[@emgee9775]

The great thing about these cvt transmissions is the lack of a clutch. I don’t know about anyone else, but not having to worry about changing the clutch saves me thousands in parts, labour and vat not to mention having to drop the car off and crawl back to to the garage to collect it. Nah, no thanks. These CVTs are brilliant and bulletproof; I’ve used them in my Toyotas for many years and they’ve always done me proud.

[@kubanskiloewe]

just changing the small amount of oil every 100000km could´nt be a bad idea. I did this also with the rear axle.

[@r7coo]

These things are utterly fabulous & bulletproof.

[@robinusher5707]

It still looks fresh, or as fresh as these small(er) luxury SUVs can be. My experience of modern Lexus models says that the build quality trounces anything from Germany.

[@ARentz07]

For whatever it's worth, it's not really a small vehicle. I fail to understand why so many magazines, including Car And Driver, call the RX a "compact SUV". The Lexus NX is compact, and this is considerably larger, almost as large as an X5.

[@aaryeshg.6526]

@@ARentz07 Cars sizes in the US is just different compared to rest of the world.

[@toms_garage]

So true

[@ARentz07]

@@aaryeshg.6526 Idk, I'm taking about the US here.

[@johnsimms8285]

Drove across France, Switzerland & Italy this summer in my 2021 RX450h. The most serene place to be as you while away the miles.

[@eb9826]

I drive an IS300h with the ecvt and I love it. Sure it doesn't sound like a conventional car most of the time, but when it comes to driving spiritedly it goes like the clappers at normal driving speeds. Overtaking and accelerating at speed is effortless, instant torque from the electric motor.

[@intrepidfox37]

I was 26 when I bought my first RX. I loved it. I referred to it as my "gym bag". For a single active young guy, it was extremely practical and a sleeper. I went undetected driving 80+ mph in NY and NJ regularly. Who's looking out for a soccer mom car speeding? Nobody!

[@thewatchman1078]

I run a lexus rc, first time with the make after Audis, BMWs etc., only wish i had got one earlier. They are truly quite outstanding.

[@RevLexus]

what spec of RC do you have?

[@thomasone1108]

My dad own a RX450H, my brother owns a lexus and so do i. I am in the market upgrading to a RX450H. Once you get into Lexus you will not leave Lexus.

[@lambsmotorworld2599]

Hi James. Enjoyed this review. I previously commented on your review of the SC430 you drove some time back. You may (or may not) therefore recall that I used to work for Lexus, although this was some time ago, as I left back in 2010 to establish my own business. However, I can relate to my experience of each generation of the RX and perhaps therefore add some credence to your review whilst also clarifying a few foibles. My experience with Lexus as employee and owner means I’ve experienced each generation of the RX, and I can therefore speak with a certain degree of confidence. Back at the time I was with the company, the third generation RX had just been launched. Across Europe, people from the Lexus network were whisked to Barcelona in early 2009 where we were handed the keys to a range of rivals to compare to the new to be RX. Was it the most dynamically exciting car? No! Only when compared to the gen 2 RX did it fair better. The accolade went at the time to the then second generation BMW X5 (not the heavily face lifted first gen). Interestingly, your criticism of the RX gearbox reminds me of my feelings for the Merc ML which in CD320 guise, had a then new 8 speed transmission which I found infuriating due to its inability to be able to decide which cog it needed for the required speed. Yes, the ECVT is typical of most CVT in that their initial response to right foot request is, er, tardy, and yes it sounds like a whining goat when you give it the beans, but by comparison, the ML gearbox was (in my opinion) at times dangerous. You touched on Lexus reasons for their choice of this gearbox for the RX450 being due to the hybrid system, and this is indeed true. The same engine which is fitted to the non hybrid RX350, gets a regular 6 speed torque converter auto. Or at least it did in the gen 2 RX. Sadly, the gen 3 was never imported to the UK as a 350, so I cannot verify this fact, and neither was the gen 4 like the car you drove. But, dynamically, the RX350 in gen 2 RX guise was the far more engaging drive. I suspect, if I’m correct about the gearbox, if the gen 4 RX350 is fitted with a standard 6 speed automatic, this may therefore be the utopian choice. All the luxury benefits without the dynamic limits, delivered in a uniquely Lexus way. The RX350 was therefore the “Petrol heads” choice, and the RX450 was the one bought by people who wanted a tad better fuel efficiency, or as was certainly the case when I was with Lexus, something that came with fantastic tax breaks due to the hybrid system reducing the combined c02 output down to a mere 112g (from memory, so I may be wrong). This meant that upon launch in 2009, we could sell every RX450 (gen 3) we could get our hands on, and were taking customers out of BMW X5 (remember, this was on the back of the 2008 crash) so’s that company execs could save a fortune in company car tax and be a little greener in doing so. BMW Owners who were puzzled (at the time) by the idea of a hybrid often asked “what’s the benefit?” I summed it up like this: “it provides the performance of a 4.0l Petrol with the economy of a 3.0l diesel whilst giving greater tax breaks”. And that’s kinda what it did. But that was then, and as you say, the gen 4 was launched in 2015 some 5 years after I’d left the company. I suspect, Lexus UK made a forecast of potential sales and this combined with the then tax breaks, decided the RX350 would be as popular here as mould on an orange in Tesco, so all the UK got was the 450 variant. I’ve driven one, and nearly bought one (in F Sport guise), with the only reason I didn’t being down to leasing costs. In summary, if you can get your hands on a 4th gen RX350 (in Europe perhaps?) drive one of those and see what you think. I suspect it’ll be kinda like seeing the nicest person you know after they’ve had major dental surgery. Very familiar, but with a much better smile.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Yes, my 2010 RX 350 has a six speed automatic. It’s been a great daily driver for the past 12 years!

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Love the high quality of the interior. Very nice car. When it comes to the CVT they should use the Efficiency Bar that Nissan had on the previous generation Pulsar Nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@unixnerd23]

I'm a driver of old manual BMWs and little else. But I love my business partner's Lexus NX 200t. It's just such a nice little SUV and really nicely made.

[@Inflator82]

I've always liked RX. It's also commendable they never made a diesel version.

[@richardharrold9736]

They'd have sold a hell of a lot more if there was a diesel option. Sure, diesel emissions are dirty, but petrol (especially direct injection) is equally bad, so...

[@RevLexus]

@@richardharrold9736 they have hybrids

[@richardharrold9736]

@@RevLexus which are useless in the real world. Just adding weight, complexity and horrid CVTs when what the market has always wanted is a simple, powerful diesel engine with a conventional torque converter autobox driving all four wheels via a proper 4WD system. Hence Lexus has sold a few thousand of these in Europe vs the millions of units of 3-litre diesel X5s BMW has shifted... and that’s before you count all the X3s, X6s, Audi Q5s and Q7s (plus their Touareg and Cayenne siblings), Mercedes MLs and GLs, Land Rover Discoveries, Range Rovers (Sport and Full Fat)... I wouldn’t mind betting even the Maserati Levante outsells the Lexus, because it comes with a decent V6 diesel... add in the RX's weird, gawky nose-heavy proportions, thanks to it being based on a front-wheel-drive platform, when it should have shared the GS's rear-drive platform

[@jdmguy44]

@@richardharrold9736 There is no need for Lexus to fit tractor motors to the RX. They know what their customers want. Especially in the states where they sell shit loads of these RX's. Far more than German rivals. Ultimately Europe is not really a very important market for Lexus.

[@richardharrold9736]

@@jdmguy44 if they put a diesel engine in, they'd sell a fuckton in Europe. The RX has been a thing for, what, 25 years? They could have derived a V6 from the V8 they launched in 2007, which is what the new F33A is (same bore and stroke), could easily have made 210bhp/360ftlb in the same relaxed state of tune as the V8, and now the F33A makes 304bhp/516ftlb - so a V6 diesel designed to compete with the BMW N57 and its ilk could have been doing those sorts of figures back in 2007 and they'd have shifted millions more units. The problem is not that Europe is an unimportant market for Lexus, it is that their product simply isn't good enough to be competitive in the economy-conscious EU. There's also no reason to think such a V6 would be unrefined - the JLR/PSA 2.7/3.0 V6 diesel is incredibly smooth. Shame they like snapping their crankshafts, but that's another matter...

[@pauldorset2124]

We have recently ordered a new Corolla, due February 2023. I have no idea why manufacturer's put sport buttons in vehicles that are not remotely sporty? Who would buy an RX and think, 'that's a sporty bit of kit?' Your point on the CVT box is fair, we test drove a Yaris Cross and it whined. The Corolla was so much more refined, with a much better interior. Not cheap but should outlast us with that legendary Toyota reliability. Lexus dealers are still the best by the way.

[@8ballmashups293]

I have a 2013 RX450h and by far my favourite car have been driving it for almost 10 years and planning on driving it for another 10 and more

[@gwynbartley9176]

Have a 21 model. Once drove 3 hours in France to the shuttle then 6 hours in uk. Seats are so comfortable was not stiff on getting out- even for a 78 year old. Active cruise control did all the heavy lifting on the car parks we call motorways.

[@chitpaul]

I had a F-Sport.. i loved it every day. The radar cruise control excellent, auto braking excellent. The power when needed excellent... its such a underated car.. mine got stolen... the F sport also has a Sport plus mode... its help to get it going.

[@retardray5701]

Always liked the look of these, as far as SUVs go. Has some of that same magic the LC has.

[@jasonalpha]

I love my RX, it’s a comfy luxury cruiser, not a performance/ sports car. Fantastic.

[@mharro88]

Yep boring pass

[@stopmotionengland5722]

this guy needs his own tv show, it should be called Upper Cog

[@ositaozed2252]

the way this guy talk about cars ommmmdzzzz u gotta luv it

[@RevLexus]

Great review, the RXL is an unusual beast! (one that we won't see again as I believe the replacement is to be called something else). The infotainment is awful but apart from that and the mild mpg results that you pointed out it is a great car. I also would add Luxury is having good aftersales customer care as well as not having to fork out a pretty penny to fix a car regularly.

[@BryanChance]

And let me guess that nothing broke on it. Drive train, engine, transmissions, ECUs, electrical, No oil leaks, radiator is fine, climate control and all buttons work fine. You can't say this with any other of it's competitors.

[@alexei123__2]

loved the subtle Pixle 6 Pro review, duly noted

[@mervinprone]

North Americans really love The Lexus RX. It’s also frequently seen atop reliability lists, at the number one spot.

[@pielight7449]

The manual/using the paddles is in fact very useful if used for the intended purpose, i.e. regulating engine braking effect for descending hills.. This minimises use of the friction brake which maximises regen into tne battery. When I had an RX, once I realised this it became a great feature in very hilly terrain.

[@suckmyrockets]

I'm quite late to Lexus ownership starting with a late 2009 IS250 (which lasted a whole 6 weeks before being written off) and it was replaced with a 2014 IS300h F-sport. The work of the devil and anathema to petrol headed principles? Works very well in urban Bristol with swathes of 20 mph zones and soon to be implemented clear air zones. It is THE most relaxing car I have driven, and if you are able to get into the Lexus groove,then the design and engineering start to make a lot of sense. It may not be the last word in driving dynamics but I even don't mind the ECVT in this application. And I really appreciate the two finger salute to the establishment and Lexus / Toyota's dogged determination in the pursuit of self-charging hybrid technology. Add to that the possibility of extending Lexus warranty to a full 10 years and it's a fairly complete package. I have yet to get out of the car feeling short changed and a real-world 44 mpg average running on pump E10 plus £10 per annum VED is icing on the cake.

[@G.Orwell-xq3bh]

Here in the US, European cars are notorious for braking often and costing a fortune to repair. Most Americans opt for the non-hybrid RX 350 because gas is much cheaper here and it comes with Toyota's bulletproof 3.5Liter V6 and 6-speed transmission (also used in the 4-runner). It's like a BMW X5 with the reliability and maintenance cost of a Toyota Hilux.

[@MediocreHero66]

My dad had 3 generations of RX, RX300h, RX400h and RX450h. 200k miles, 155k miles and 80k miles respectively. The biggest 'issue' that he experienced was a stone getting caught between the disc and caliper. We had driven up and down the country without fault and they were a testament to the well known Lexus/ Toyota reliability. Yes I am commenting again and at the risk of being a broken record, I am a Lexi enthusiast, to see them appear on your channel repeatedly soothes my soul. I cannot tell you how many friends and family members have had nothing but trouble with other car marques, yet still return to them?! My personal opinion is 1. People are badge snobs 2. Lexi are somewhat expensive in comparison to other manufacturers and 3. The Toyota mentality of continuous improvement over time doesn't sit well with the population. Unfortunately they tend to be late to the party, because the brand cares deeply about reliability rather than always being 'new and shiny' - an impatient populous wants everything current and wants it now! Superb video and maybe you can come check out my ever growing collection of Lexi some time.

[@CarShopping101]

Lexus does just fine in the US

[@RevLexus]

@ŽAID DIAŽ (ⰆⰀⰋⰄ ⰄⰋⰀⰆ) In the UK I think its due to the poor financing, I know of people who can get a high spec BMW equivalent for hundreds of £££ less a month than a Lexus.

[@RevLexus]

@@CarShopping101 that is true, but most of them are the 350 variants and cost a fraction of UK prices

[@leevanqueef2658]

I've got the F sport with Takumi pack. Two rather big annoyances are that the radar cruise 5mph increments (as you mentioned) and the beeps and bongs which are completely unnecessary. In terms of driving? Well, drive it like any other car and you'll be rather baffled and underwhelmed. Drive it like a Lexus? You'll never want to part from it. Supremely effortless, quiet, smooth and refined. It literally changes the way you drive and I love it for that reason. Mpg 35 average so not great but better than a few cars of this size. Rides better in sport s mode. Agree with what you say about it needing to be electric. When the car switches to EV mode, I'm convinced my bpm drops and my breathing is calmer... bloody weird I know 🤣

[@sergueikoaloff4919]

I also have a RX (non F sport though). 35 mpg is quite outstanding considering the weight (2.2 tonnes), the engine (3.5 L with 300 bhp) and 20'' wheels.

[@RevLexus]

I never understood the 5mph increments! The other Lexus models of this era that my family has owned activates at an unknown setting and its hard to increase it to an exact speed. I am always amazed that the RX 450h and NX 300h get similar real world mpg figures

[@DocteurMolotov]

I'm a petrolhead and I mostly drive a RX 450h. Being one of the most reliable car in the world makes it special, giving an utterly pleasant sensation of tranquility. Inside, it's not about thrills ans guts but peace of mind and low blood pressure. When you think about it a little, the CVT is in fact the best technology of transmission for this car. It is the last piece of the puzzle of smoothness that this vehicle is. So I can truly enjoy jerking around with my second car, my fast 3.2L V6 convertible

[@andyburnett8012]

I love my cars and own one of these, also been towing a twin axle caravan with it over the last two years without issue. In fact it tows better than my previous car, a Mitsubishi Shogun 🙂

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

Im a petrolhead and want one of these. I have an Aston so the Lexus would be my daily driver. Also helps having had a Lexus before so have bought into the whole Lexus way. Surprised you didn't mention how the windows slow when going back to their seated position, no thwack as you get in most cars .... The attention to detail is very good.

[@stephenlane9168]

Another great video James, I'm impressed by these and I'm looking to buy one in next few weeks

[@RevLexus]

if you can wait the whole new model is out soon, you might save money on existing variant

[@loniavraamides6712]

You buy a Lexus because of the quality, reliability and proper customer service at the dealer...something which is sadly lacking from many perceived quality German brands. Also, it's a comfy place to be...not honed at the 'ring with stiff suspension that rattles your bones when you drive over a painted white line.

[@kubanskiloewe]

as a german; i agreee. switched to Lexus after years of driving our "premium" brands 😂🤣

[@anthonyblore1651]

I'm on my second one of these. I'll be buying the new one. Radar cruise control in morning traffic takes the ballache out of the morning stop/start commute. Comfiest seats make 500 mile round trip I do on a regular basis effortless.

[@Birmingham_racing]

I've driven a previous generation rx450h and my brother owned a 2005 and 2006 gs450h. If those are anything to go by this would be smooth as hell

[@davidgillham6847]

A completely new RX is on the cards for next year, its been announced already. In terms of the eCVT, once you realise it's a gearbox trying to make a combustion/hybrid engine drive like an electric car you get on much better with it. With an eCVT, one must be progressive on the throttle to get the full rewards, but throttle stabs will frustrate and disappoint.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yes, I know - that's why I mention it in the video

[@gwynbartley9176]

@@JayEmmOnCars The new RX is 4 cylinder ,no spare wheel and have you seen the interior door handles. Not for me , I’ll keep my 21 RX

[@bmwman1981]

My dad owns a 2005 rx400h which has 223 thousand miles on the clock and it’s been great

[@renesmeenk4108]

Really enjoyed this, thank you

[@SpiritLwerewolf]

Please check out how the e-CVT works. The e-motor figures matter very little, the rear one is the most interesting one due to its location (can't drive those wheels with the engine). Engine-out torque as a figure doesn't really matter anyways. Max total system power is whatever the engine can produce (limited at low speeds by the eCVT) + whatever the battery can output in addition (usually +35kw). The fastest eCVTs in the ls/lc500h add a 4-speed auto at the back to let the engine reach higher RPM at lower speeds.

[@davidfoster7689]

I own a 2020 RX Sport, with an opening panoramic roof and electric sun shade, overall it’s a great car , high quality, lovely finish and to drive on the crowded UK roads an enjoyable place to be.

[@alanbutterfield8057]

I Have a 21 plate Honda CR-V EHEV SR model and I have to say any hybrid car you choose will always do better when it comes to city driving and at this moment in time I'm achiving between 52 & 53 mpg around town but on any motorway driving those numbers drop also in the winter I get between 47 & 48 mpg also the Honda CR-V has the same ECVT gearbox and yes its not perfect but it gets the job done. I do love this car its beyond relaxing to drive and petrol cost is super low lets not forget the super build quality and the 2.0 L engine is just typical Honda and pumps out 184Hp and has some get up and go in sports mode. I have noticed the is not many new CR-V's on the road not sure why. I have noticed that lexus cars are selling well here in Liverpool and they just keep appearing and more and more RX models are drivin by mums doing school runs plus trips to the shops and this is the perfect car for city driving. I have to admit I do love Honda and Lexus and this is from a man that has been a Ford man for many years but also love the German cars but Lexus and Honda just have a little somthing the others don't I just can't put my finger on it. Cheers Alan B

[@donkykon2094]

great review!

[@tomhalbouty3653]

Very nice review. Here are a few additional thoughts about the success of the Lexus RX in the States. My prior car was a 2018 Audi A7 Prestige, with a supercharged V6. It was a very fun car to drive. That said, the car had a few mechanical issues that were taken care of under warranty but the cost of repairing an Audi, Mercedes or BMW in the States is quite high and the long term reliability of the cars in the States appears to be a bit inconsistent. My second point is that the Lexus RX retains much of it's value long after the warranty expires where the value of my Audi tanks after the warranty expires (yes I traded it off for the Lexus when it still had some warranty). The Lexus RX and most Toyota products are generally extremely reliable, long lasting and service costs are quite reasonable. It's the classic trade off of fun vs low maintenance which also applies to people!. Thanks again for a great review.

[@1200supraman]

I hear you talk about home stereo systems in some videos. How about separate video on yours? Into audio myself. Not much of Lexus fan but I enjoy your videos.

[@tufluxed3293]

Timeless just like the XC90 still looking relevant since 2015

[@lostinbluespace5210]

I like the 5mph increments. My Volvo does this as well. It’s much quicker to go from 50 to 70 and vice versa. You can go in 1mph increments if you hold the button. I’d imagine the Lexus IS the same. Love a Lexus though. Their quirkiness appeals and we can all appreciate the engineering that goes into them.

[@jonathanevans9257]

I have an early one, faultless. Look at the ergonomics, perfect, even the volume control is handed to be near the driver and you can read the writing on the controls unlike my new Merc where I need a magnifying glass to read the text!

[@mrozowskitomasz]

e-CVT FTW! Have it, and love it. Seamless power transfer is great.

[@jonathanholley8043]

I have a 7 year old Lexus hybrid owned for the last 20 months and yes the CVT box does take some getting used to , however the car is faultless , very comfortable for long distances and a load lugger . You also get great fuel consumption bullet proof reliability and in 50 years of car ownership Lexus customer service is the finest I have ever experienced.

[@RevLexus]

What model do you have? OH I agree, the customer service is great

[@jonathanholley8043]

@@RevLexus Lexus CT200h

[@RevLexus]

@@jonathanholley8043 oh amazing!! We had one for a few years! I had a blue 2019 model. Video on my channel if you want to see

[@jonathanholley8043]

@@RevLexus Many thanks and will do , have watched your videos of SC 430 as really keen to get one for a weekend at some point in the next few months, love the colour combo of yours . My budget will get me a good pre facelift model.

[@RevLexus]

@@jonathanholley8043 oh thanks! The SC is a great car, I have had mine for just over 2 years now. I would recommend trying to find a loved one. actually, I think Matt from HighPeakAutos has one for sale in Stockport.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

I moved from a 1995 110 exMilitary Defender (soft top) Diesel. To a second hand Lexus CT200h love it. My other car is a 1999 SL320 R129.

[@murrieteacher]

These are a good daily. You leave your paperboy hat behind with your stringback gloves and pick up your in-laws and comfortably go to your destination. Thanks for the video Jay, I must have missed it when it first appeared. I must have missed the notification.

[@HK.Builds]

I have a 2008 GS450H which is extremely quick and I am definitely a petrol Head. But you know what, I bought the car because I wanted a fast daily and something different, However I don't hoon it around or find myself speeding in it. It actually encourages you to relax and thats the thing about lexus cars, it's the refinement and build quality. The power is nice when needed though!

[@terrymcminn9679]

Had our RX450H for two years now, Have had BMW, Cars Linc. and others, As an older guy I LOVE THIS CAR!

[@webbswonderful]

You can adjust the cruise speeds in 1mph increments by holding down the cruise "on" steering wheel button for a few seconds.

[@BBDSmint]

I got my wife a 2017 one of these and it's a perfect daily bus; very high quality, reliable, smooth, quiet and comfortable. Also big enough to haul kid stuff about. The drivetrain really doesn't bother me at all, you get used to it and it's very smooth to compensate for being slightly strange. The bonus of UK buyers not really vibing with a Lexus badge is they're also great value on the used market, definitely better than an equivalent X5 or GLE.

[@johnconnors5123]

I bought a 2022 luxury in US same car other than not a hybrid . I have 8 speed auto , quite different than tester . No problem merging on freeways or passing .

[@hifirulezzz]

I would recommend you watch a few videos explaining how eCVT works. That is the best and most reliable CVT ever. I did own RX450h and it has enough power always. Just with any CVT you will not feel kick in your ass, it will accelerate smooth and quick.

[@conradbo1]

Great car and great review. Thank you very much.

[@fransb8543]

In my GS, in eco mode the throttle response is quite slow, when I have to cross a busy 2 lane road, I usually turn it to sport mode. That being said, the GS is slightly more powerful and a lot quicker than the RX. It's so smooth, there's no kickdown so you don't get a kick in the back when you floor it. But it shifts a lot faster than my old E39 540i (at half the running costs).

[@pollumG]

E-cvt is perfect for just normal driving, which 99% of people do.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Unfortunately I've had run-ins with Jatco CVT reliability in the past... I'm sure Toyota/Lexus/Aisin-Warner CVT's are not as crap as Jatco CVTs... but I'd still be worried it'd get to 100,000 miles and then need to be replaced (the last Jatco CVT I had didn't even make it to 80,000 miles, but was out of warranty - so fucked me over badly by turning the Nissan it was in into a mechanical write-off)

[@CarShopping101]

@@Beer_Dad1975 Jatco CVTs are belt driven. Lexus hybrid eCVTs are planetary gears no belts. They are completely different designs and thus are not comparable.

[@ln5747]

@@Beer_Dad1975 you don't understand eCVTs. Totally different to normal CVTs, nevermind can't compare Aisin CVT to a Nissan Jatco CVT. The eCVTs are proving ridiculously reliable and doing huge mikeages. Allegedly Lexus/Toyota barely stock any spares as they practically never go wrong.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

@@ln5747 Yeah I just see CVT and remember my old Primera which was an unmitigated money pit disaster. Looked up some diagrams so now I see it's definitely vastly superior to the old belt driven crap. Maybe they should have given it a name without "CVT" in it so those of us have been burned by Jatco equipped shitboxes wouldn't associate it. I think I prefer my AA80 still though, CVT's are at least in my experience, joyless things to drive.

[@zzrandy7110]

@@ln5747 It seems very few people understand the difference between cvt and ecvt transmissions. I tow a twin axle caravan with my rx 450h and it's amazing. They're very reliable transmissions, or transaxle as they should be called. Toyota Lexus shouldn't have called these ecvt as it has put many people off. A different name would have made a huge difference in perception of these vehicles.

[@vladx2]

I had an Audi A4 with a CVT (Multitronic) and the 2.0 TDI engine. To be honest, it was calibrated perfectly and fitted the car just fine. It smoothed over the lumpy power delivery of the engine and actually made acceleration more linear without droning at a constant RPM.

[@ln5747]

I have the same.car currently and love it. If you're a petrolhead I can see why you wouldn't, but I'm not so it's very relaxing to drive.

[@cruisyguy]

Just purchased my third Lexus RX, owned a 2000 and 2007 prior to the 2021 I now own. I have owned many cars, Acura, top model Accords, Mazda CX-5 and returned to Lexus for many reasons. This car will hold its value very well as it is one of the last models built with a V6 which according to RX enthusiasts is pure gold. The 4 cylinder 2023 and 2024 are beautiful but I hear not as smooth of an engine as the V6. I hope to drive this car 200-300,000 miles.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

I have a 2016 f sport rx450. Best car I’ve ever owned and in 6 years nothing much has gone wrong and still drives like new. Most versatile, comfortable and long term cheap to run car out there. I am a petrol head and this car is surprisingly quick off the mark at 6.8 seconds to 60. Love it. No active dampers but it does have lateral dampers to control bodyroll and stiffer standard dampers. That means it DOES want to corner and does it surprisingly well. Sport mode removes any system lag and it will shove you back in your seat. It feels quicker than the heavier luxury model yet still delivers on long distance comfort. You missed the point of the hybrid. It’s there for only 2 reasons which is serenity around town and to boost performance with instant torque which is by the way additive at full throttle to the petrol output giving this equivalent shove to a 4.5 litre V8 hence the rx450. It is quicker than you might imagine but hides it well with more a sensation of being wafted up to speed. Overtakes are a breeze too. I prefer the older fsport. It feels quicker as it is a bit lighter and it does corner better.

[@johnmiddlemiss2990]

Having had Audis for years I’ve just bought a 2019 RX450 Takumi (14000 miles). Cost me an arm and a leg. This review was influential on my decision. I have to say after a month - and a number of issues which the Lexus dealer sorted uncomplainingly - I f**king love it. Sure the handling isn’t like a typical European car but it’s such a relaxing and calm place to be. This car will be a keeper.

[@marantamil459]

Yup and we are looking to get the RX450H+. We've had Lexus for the last 15 years.

[@golferpro1241]

My RX330 is 19 years old. Drives and rides like new. It has 37,200 original miles. Great cars!

[@garlicnaan1]

That is very low miles

[@w1p30ut9]

Great review, thank you. I also appreciated your review of the LC500. The panoramic roof, which I own, does have a moon roof opening, you are correct it reduce rear headroom. The car tows up to 2000kg, but the towbar is best specified upon purchase as they add an additional oil cooler. It does have a 360 camera to help with the sloping away bonnet which I agree is difficult to place, but you do get used to it. You forgot to mention the electric windows and the near silent motors that slow down and speed up. The double glazing which is standard with sound insulating film which make for a very quiet travels. The brilliance of the engineering is difficult to communicate but everything feels it's built to last and excel. The windows are just one example. I agree the car is brilliant for long hassle free comfortable journeys for a large family. As an owner you get used to the CVT you just waft around and remember it's not a performance car. Agreed I don't understand the F-Sport spec, buy the Premium or Takhumi. I own the premium, as the Takhumi is a lot more money for not a lot of extra kit. Keep up the good work, I really enjoy your channel and output.

[@RevLexus]

The LC 500 is a dream car!! I agree you do get used to the CVT transmission in Lexus products over time. The infotainment system drives me & everyone I talk to up the wall.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I even have that silent touch window close on my 2010 RX! It’s a cool feature!

[@RevLexus]

@@eleanormassaro5195 it is so cool

[@Rickster1965]

As I get older I want low maintenance living, that’s why I love my RX. Just be diligent in fluid changes and you’ll be fine for several hundred thousand miles! Things will need replacing/repair but it’s been my experience you won’t need that same repair for a long time! Assuming your mechanic is a Toyota/Lexus qualified.

[@martindouglass3248]

We’ve got our second RX sitting between our GS and GT350. Yep, the RX certainly isn’t tge ride for “drivers” or petrol heads, but if you’re an engineering nerd, or looking for a beautiful place to decompress in on the way home from the office, Lexus cars will impress you nearly each time you drive one. Wonderful cars.

[@billbrowning3021]

The US car makers seemed to have adopted a standard that speed control increments in 5 MPH with a momentary press up or down. One has to hold the buttons down to increment in 1 MPH increments.

[@lexusformetwo7097]

We have owned Acuras for many years and loved every one of them! Acura failed or refused to correctly perform a warranty issue on a new 2007 TL-type S. We told them fix it correctly or this would be our last purchase - and it was out 6th Acura. They refused - we did love that car - we kept it for 9-years and it looked like a new car when we sold it. As a new car the trunk was mis-aligned and rubbed paint off the bumper. This they fixed - but they extended the trunk back, past the tail lights - it did not look like the others when parked by another - it looked mis-aligned. Acura of Portland has CA reps fly in twice only to tell us it was within their standards. I would not put up with that today ……. Long story short they will never sell me another Acura - we own an ES300h in eminent white pearl with the light bamboo/cream interior - beautiful car and an RX450h in nebula gray pearl with the light cream interior - love it - both get amazing mileage and are just smooth, quiet, extremely comfortable cars to drive that are never a worry - we have peace of mind that they were built to last. We are impressed with both cars. Exciting hot rods - no, that is not what they were built to do. They were built for safety, reliability with style and luxury, not all cars have to be a corvette. If we get bored - we will buy a fun toy.

[@chionyenkwu2253]

Had one of this car ancestors - with adjustable air suspension and a 4 litre V8 --> velvet smooth, plush carpet like ride and a fantastic (for the time) stereo; to me an unsung hero. However Toyota did manage to bash that bogey man called badge snobbery. Great and well balanced review 👍🏾👍🏾

[@woody555kl]

I've said this before but if they ever bring back proper old school top gear your perfect for it, entertaining funny and mostly know you stuff👍

[@barryb1490]

Definitely!

[@believeinyourself4457]

I did find a way to enjoy a CVT in that 2013 Maxima I had, that it was quick to take a set at 4K even during moderate acceleration, making that intake snarl very audible, it was a car that came alive once I put tires on that remain the most forgiving ever, something not foreseen, as they were the least expensive snow tires I could find back then, Zeta Antarctica, as you may have surmised, I didn't take them off in the summer, which was how I discovered how it made accessible the limits of the car while remaining close to the threshold of superfluous taxation, I didn't want blizzaks, too much grip in the winter, I prefer to be able to chuck the car around a corner, something I could do in the summer too, with these tires, scaring the crap out of a very young driver behind the wheel of an ST Focus who did attempt to flex driving skills not his own, perhaps related to the back end of the Maxima stepping out on that off ramp, that car did inspire hoonery often, and could back it up.