Lexus has given its hybrid off-roader, the RX 450h, some minor design updates and improved equipment along with the addition of a new sportier version.
The design changes have been minute. It gets a new grille and some reshaped rear lights.
That’s it.
Inside the car there have been some small tweaks made, which includes a new steering wheel, as well as improved functionality of the controls in the car, according to the company.
The bigger changes come with the addition of the F Sport model. Lexus claims that this model offers sharper looks and improved performance.
It gets a deeper and more vertical front bumper compared to the standard car. There’s also mesh treatment for the upper and lower grille. F Sport badging and dark finish 19-inch alloys finish off the sportier exterior design.
The interior of the F Sport gets added aluminium-effect sports pedals and trim inserts, F Sport leather upholstery and scuff plates with a black Lexus logo. Other equipment for this model includes head-up display and directional LED headlights.
A Sport mode now available on the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Selecting this mode alters the throttle and power steering settings to help improve handling and performance.
Despite all the aesthetic changes, the car is fitted with the same 230bhp petrol/electric hybrid system. This emits 145g/km, placing it in to the 20% Benefit-in-Kind band. This means that the entry level SE version, with a P11d value of £44,320, will cost the 40% tax payer £295 per month.
Equipment has also been upgraded in the latest model with the entry SE car getting LED daytime running lights, leather upholstery and the redesigned steering wheel. Luxury models add the dark-finish 19-inch alloys and 12-speaker sound system with DAB tuner and DVD player.
The updated Lexus RX 450h is available to order not with P11d prices starting from £44,320 for the SE model rising to £55,320 for the range-topping Premier model.
For the full Lexus RX review click here.
Also consider:
If you aren’t fussed with practicality then probably the X6 is a better choice, but the X5 is a better compromise, marrying driving excellence with a roomy interior.
A proper status symbol with a sumptuous interior, the M-Class provides comfort and real cruising ability.
The alternative choice, but with a gutsy engine it’s not short of power. Plush interior and solid mechanicals.
