Lexus RX 450h

Is this the future of the 4x4? Lexus certainly claims it is!

The firm was the pioneer of the hybrid off-roader, and the new RX 450h is aimed at environmentalists and driving enthusiasts alike. Its petrol-electric drivetrain promises impressive economy to go with the car’s rugged ability.

Previously, the RX could be specified with a petrol V6, but UK drivers will now be offered hybrids only. That’s great news for performance, as two electric motors work with a powerful 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine to deliver hot hatch-rivalling pace.

However, engine noise is rather intrusive. Even when accelerating gently, the six-speed sequential CVT box allows the revs to climb too high for truly relaxing motoring.

Economy is much better than before, with Lexus claiming a respectable 44.8mpg combined. Add CO2 emissions of 148g/km, and the car appears far more tempting than many rivals.

Inside, the driving position is easily adjustable, while the leather seats are soft. However, the dash is a disappointing mix of shapes, textures and colours – the dated climate system looks especially out of place next to the high-end Mark Levinson stereo.

But while we have doubts over the design, the quality of the finish inside is beyond question. Lexus’s usual attention to detail ranges from soft-close windows to the computer mouse-style controller for the various cabin functions. The rear seats offer lots of room, and a one-touch mechanism sees them fold 60:40 to increase the boot’s 496-litre capacity.

Out on the road, the hi-tech powertrain should see the car steal the show. Yet the maker has tried to turn the RX into a sporting off-roader with stiff suspension. The result is the same uninspiring handling which held back the previous model, but now hamstrung further by a poor ride. We wish Lexus had just stuck to what it knows best – and focused on comfort as much as technology.

Rival: BMW X5 3.0d
although the X5 can’t match the Lexus’s eco technology, it offers a much better blend of ride and handling, as well as pleasing design and superb quality. As a fun family SUV, there isn’t much to match it.