A Closer Look at the 2020 Lexus RX 450h Hybrid
The F Sport version of the RX 450h combines performance with excellent fuel economy.
Vehicle
For the 2020 model year, the Lexus RX series received a few changes. It now has CarPlay and Android Auto. The mouse controller has been replaced with a finger touchpad. The suspension has been refined, but offers more variety if the F-Sport package is ordered. On the outside, there are no significant alterations.
Text and photos by Chad Haire
Engine
The RX350 has a 3.5 liter V-6 cranking 295 horsepower, hooked to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Fuel economy is claimed to be 20/27 mpg with 23 on average. This was the RX450h version. It also has a 3.5 liter V-6 but is a hybrid with the usual battery and motor systems. Total horsepower is 308, and it is hooked to a CVT transmission. Fuel economy is listed at 30/28 mpg, with 30 overall.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Emblem
This RX also has the F-Sport package that adds fun to the hybrid experience. There are emblems posted on the outside bodywork so onlookers know you spend the extra coin.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Control Knob
The main feature of the F-Sport is the magic knob below the shifter. It offers ECO mode for maximum fuel economy. NORMAL is for everyday commuting. Pressing SPORT livens up the throttle response and shift points to move the vehicle out in a hurry. The latter feature seems to defeat the economical concept of a hybrid, but if the driver is in a hurry, it serves its purpose. We also get steering wheel paddle shifters for those who want to play race car fantasies.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
AWD
The gasoline motor drives the front wheels. An electric motor drives these rear wheels, making this a true all-wheel-drive SUV.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Screen
The standard info screen is 8-inches wide, but this optional 12.3-inch unit is great. The camera and viewer system is large, with sharp clarity.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Control Pad
The infotainment screen is controlled by this finger touch pad. It replaces the previous mouse stick, which was easier to use.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Economy
On highway trips, the difference in fuel economy between the RX350 and RX450h is only one mpg. It is in city commuting where the hybrid system works better, with an improvement of 11 mpg claimed, 20 vs. 31 mpg. All hybrid systems perform better in city commuting regardless of the brand.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Off Road
With high ground clearance to protect against rocks and all-wheel-drive traction, the RX450h can be taken off the pavement as seen here. But keep in mind, this is not a truck, it's basically a car. This means that while driving in the dirt, the driver needs to tread lightly. These street tires are not intended to give the best performance in the sand. The good news is the Rx450h does come with a spare tire, which helps if you get a flat tire out in the sticks. Most hybrid vehicles do not.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Headlights
These optional LED headlights brighten up the night but cost a healthy $1,675 extra.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
Price Sheet
The base RX350 starts about $44K. The RX450 F-Sport begins at $55,550. As usual, there are plenty of options to get into your wallet, and this one reaches $59,545. But it is a Lexus, which means high quality and long term reliability.
>>Join the conversation about the RX 450h right here in ClubLexus.com.
For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our How-to section in the forum.