When the original Lexus RX burst onto the scene in 1998, it pioneered the luxury SUV segment. Here was a vehicle that combined go-anywhere capability with premium amenities and a silky-smooth hybrid powertrain - revolutionary thinking at the time. 

Over two decades later, the RX is in its fifth generation, but has it managed to keep pace with an increasingly crowded and competitive luxury SUV market?

Under the Skin

The latest Lexus RX 450h rides on Toyota's GA-K platform, sharing its underpinnings with the RAV4. While dimensionally similar to its predecessor, an extended wheelbase and wider track improve interior space and driving dynamics. 

The exterior styling is distinctly sporty with the Lexus RX 450h front bumper boasting that signature spindle grille, with clean lines and a sloping rear roofline lending a sleek profile. 

Powering the 450h is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an 18.1kWh battery pack and dual electric motors for a combined 304hp output, a plug-in hybrid setup delivering a factory-estimated 40 miles of pure electric range and up to 235mpg combined fuel economy – not bad for such a spacious car. 

Serene Progress

From the driver's seat, the RX 450h maintains Lexus' serene, isolated luxury tradition. Its plush cabin cossets occupants with premium materials and the brand's meticulous fit and finish. A range-topping Takumi spec adds adaptive dampers, heated/cooled rear seats, and a thumping 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system.

The RX 450h demonstrates a clear priority towards comfort over outright performance on the road. While swift for a large SUV, it lacks the visceral thrills of sportier rivals like the BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne. The focus is on effortless progress, with the hybrid seamlessly blending electric and petrol power for brisk yet refined motivation.

The RX's softly sprung suspension soaks up road imperfections with aplomb, though body motions can feel a touch floaty, and the light and numb steering lacks communication. 

But the buttery-smooth Lexus delivers in spades for those seeking a comfortable and serene premium family haulier with a soft ride.

Value and Competition

Pricing for the Lexus RX 450h starts at £64,950, with top-spec Takumi models costing £79,450. Auto Trader reveals that pre-registered vehicles start at around £57,000, while used models with up to 10,000 miles cost less than £45k. 

That lands it in a sweet spot below flagship luxury SUVs from European brands while undercutting plug-in hybrid rivals like the BMW X5 xDrive50e.

The RX range also includes more affordable self-charging hybrid RX 350h and high-performance RX 500h variants, but the 450h hits the pragmatic sweet spot of efficiency, performance and value that made Lexus a success in the first place.

The Verdict

While competitors have caught up in areas like interior technology and driver engagement, the Lexus RX 450h still carves out a compelling luxury SUV niche emphasising relaxation and comfort over sheer thrills. 

Although it may no longer be the definitive class leader, it remains focused on the core principles that made it a trailblazer.

For those who value a tranquil, isolated driving experience without sacrificing premium amenities, the RX 450h continues to make a strong case for itself over more sport-oriented European rivals. For a premium hybrid SUV that stays true to its comfort-first philosophy, Lexus' original luxury crossover still stands the test of time.