Den49

An important factor to consider is how often and how many miles you drive annually. I previously owned a Prius and an Avalon Hybrid and loved both of those cars for their smoothness and fuel economy. We drove those hybrids 15,000 to 20,000 miles per year when we were working and taking a lot of long road trips. I originally thought I wanted the RX350h based on my previous hybrid experience; however, I changed my mind and bought the RX350 turbo for the following reasons:
- My wife and I are retired now and will only drive the RX about 6,000 to 8,000 miles per year. Most of the time, the RX will sit in the garage. We have a 2023 Tesla Model S that we drive locally and on medium range trips. The RX350 is for long trips, which we take less frequently as time goes on. Hybrids need to be driven regularly to keep the traction battery charged and healthy. Our use case is better suited for a non-hybrid. The RX350 will last indefinitely with our use case; whereas, a hybrid may have traction battery issues sooner under our use case.
- The RX350 turbo seemed quicker and quieter than the RX350h when we test drove them.
- The RX350 requires premium fuel, but that only amounts to between $200 and $300 per year extra for us which is no big deal. BTW, premium fuel is recommended for the RX350h. I would have also used premium in the RX350h to protect the engine and optimize performance.
- I got a $3,500 discount on the RX350, but the RX350h was selling at or above sticker price with a lot of undesirable accessories and options that pushed the price even higher. $3,500 buys a lot of gas.
- There were only a couple RX350h in stock and neither fit the bill for me.
- There were dozens of RX350 in stock and I got the exact specification I wanted.

So, depending on use case, either the RX350h or the RX350 can be the right choice for you. Consider how you will use the car, as opposed to how others will use their car.