AUTO

2024 Lexus RX 450h+ – The Athletically Luxurious Mid-Size Crossover PHEV SUV

August 29, 2023

The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ will arrive on dealership lots in late 2023.
The new Lexus RX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid with up to 35 miles of all-electric range.
Charging the RX 450h+ with a Level 2 system will take about 2.5 hours.

As Toyota Motor Company and its luxurious Lexus brand are moving toward an electrified lineup, Lexus announced the upcoming 2024 Lexus RX 450h+. This will be the first plug-in hybrid in the popular RX lineup. It will join the mild-hybrid and gas-powered models of the iconic crossover with two rows and seating for five.

In 2023, Lexus redesigned the RX models. They were once three-row SUVs, but the automaker discontinued offering the additional seats, opting for more passenger space in the luxurious mid-size SUV. Along with the 450h+, Lexus offers the RX models in several 350 trims and the top RX 500h F Sport Performance trim. The new 450h+ slots nicely between the 350 and 500, especially for drivers who want an EV experience in town with the convenience of a gas-powered engine for road trips.

The wait is short for the new plug-in hybrid, as the Lexus RX 450h+ release date is in late 2023. For shoppers looking to purchase the new vehicle at the end of 2023, the RX 450h+ price should start around $63,000.

What’s Under the Hood?

The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ will have a 2.5-liter inline-four engine paired with an 18.1-kWh lithium-ion battery. The iconic crossover will have two electric motors that power the front and rear wheels, giving the RX 450h+ a 40kw “E-Four” system for full-time all-wheel drive. Like other plug-in hybrids, the RX 450h+ will have instant torque with a 6.2-second zero-to-60 time.

Unlike other plug-in hybrids, the RX 450h+ will have a manufacturer-estimated all-electric range of 35 miles. For comparison, the popular Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid has an all-electric range of about 21 miles.

Drivers can charge the Lexus RX 450h+ with a Level 1 or Level 2 charging system. Using a Level 2 system, the RX 450h+ will charge in about two and a half hours, which is typical for a plug-in hybrid EV.

Aggressive and Athletic

Lexus is known for pushing the envelope with high-tech luxury features. The 2024 RX 450h+ will meet driver expectations, especially those who are familiar with the 2023 RX models. On the outside, the new PHEV will feature an athletic shape with sophisticated trim.

The crossover has a low center of gravity and 21-inch alloy wheels that gives it an aggressive stance often reserved for luxury sports cars. The RX 450h+ looks good going with the single tail light that enhances the wide body.

Lexus is offering the RX 450h+ in eight colors:

Caviar
Cloudburst Gray
Copper Crest
Eminent White Pearl
Iridium
Matador Red Mica
Nightfall Mica
Nori Green Pearl

Luxurious Interior Finishes and Technology

Lexus loads the RX 450h+ with necessary technology in thoughtful locations. The minimalist layout and Head-Up Display let drivers focus on the road. The 14-inch high-definition touchscreen features an intuitive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Cloud Navigation, and more.

The screen has an anti-reflective finish, making it easy to read in all lighting conditions. Drivers can keep their eyes on the road by using the knob on the center console to maneuver through the infotainment system.

All trims have perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery on the heated and ventilated front seats, thematic ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel with wood and leather trim, a large panoramic glass roof, and the programmable Lexus Memory System. Drivers who want a premium audio experience can add the 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System.

For convenience, the rear seat has a 40/20/40 split capability. The vehicle has six USB ports, including two USB-C outlets. Lexus also adds a standard 120V AC outlet.

Lexus offers most vehicles with the same trim levels. The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ F Sport will have sporty exterior accents that will separate it from the base, Luxury, Premium, and other trims. The higher-end trim levels will include exceptional tech features like a Surround Parking Camera System, the 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, and exceptional luxury features in the rear seats.