Lexus RX 450h

• Rating:
• For : Refinement, performance, standard kit
• Against : Styling, lifeless steering, high price

The hybrid-only Lexus RX450h is a large SUV that competes with the BMW X5, Mercedes ML-Class and Audi Q7. By combining a 3.5-litre V6 engine with a pair of electric motor is manages to return 44.8mpg, but thanks to a combined power output of 295bhp it has a surprising turn of pace too. The RX450h is at its best at cruising speeds, when refinement and comfort is superb - in the corners though it loses out to more dynamic rivals. Loading space is slightly less than its rivals, but a flexible interior layout makes the most what's there, so it should prove adequate for even a large family.

Our pick: Lexus RX450h SE-L

Styling

Recently facelifted, the RX450h now features the same pinched grille as the all-new GS - and Lexus claims it's a feature we'll be seeing more of on future models. The overall proportions are similar to the original RX - launched in 1998 - so it doesn't have the same road presence as its closest rivals - the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML. For extra visual impact there's an F-Sport model, which features dark alloys, tinted light clusters and a chunkier body kit.

Interior

On the inside the sweeping dash is dramatic, although the expanses of wood trim won't be to all tastes. There's no denying the quality of the materials used are first rate though and standard kit, which includes sat-nav, heated and electrically adjustable leather seats and a Bluetooth phone connection, is generous.

Driving and Performance

With a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and two electric motors (one at each axle) producing a total of 295bhp the RX450h covers 0-62mph in a sprightly 7.8 seconds. But while straight line performance is impressive it fares less well in the bends. There's dramatic understeer if you carry too much speed into a bend and torque steer when you get back on the throttle. Refinement is excellent however with very little wind, road and engine noise making its way into the cabin, so long journeys are a breeze. An electric-only mode can be accessed at low speeds, which makes driving through towns a relaxing experience, too.

MPG and running costs

Compared to the previous model Lexus has managed to boost power by 10 per cent but cut CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, by 23 and 28 per cent respectively. Lexus' official figures are 44.8mpg and 145g/km, significantly better than a BMW X5 30d, but in the real world you'll struggle to match them. The purchase price is high - you can have a Land Rover Discovery or Audi Q7 for less - but residual values are good.

Practicality

Unlike most hybrids, the RX450h's battery pack doesn't encroach on the boot space. The result is a 496-litre boot, which is still someway down on the BMW X5, but useful nonetheless. The rear bench folds forward in three separate sections too and can slide back and forth depending on whether you want to maximise boot space or rear legroom - headroom in the back is generous, too.

Safety and reliability

Build quality and reliability have always been cornerstones of Lexus' success, with it regularly topping the customer satisfaction tables in our Driver Power survey. Ten airbags a sophisticated stability control system all come as standard, as does radar cruise control, which regulates the distance between you and the car in front, and a pre-crash safety system that prepares the car if it senses an impact is imminent.