The fast-selling, mid-size Lexus RX underwent some styling revisions mixed with the suspension refinement and addition of the new touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto capability for the 2020 model year. The updated model is also available with an expanded list of active safety systems. With these upgrades, the model will remain on the roads with no significant upgrades until the next full redesign. The 2021 Lexus RX 450h powered by the hybrid unit isn’t also expected to come with any significant update.
The RX 450h improves the fuel economy over the non-hybrid RX 350 variant while delivering also smooth ride quality. The model has also and eye-catchy presence and cabin treated with the top-quality materials. It comes also loaded with premium features from the start including an also massive touchscreen with smartphone compatibility and an array of standard active safety systems. Trough available packages the model provides an additional level of sophistication and luxury. The F Sport version adds some sports cues both inside and out mixed with sportier handling and steering.
2021 Lexus RX 450h: Design
Lexus is known for its unconventional design approach and the mid-size RX models are no exception. With the massive spindle grille up front, angular headlights, edgy corners and sharp creases the model can’t pass unnoticed. The Lexus RX is another model with the love it or hate it design.
The next 2021 Lexus RX 450h will remain the same form regarding the styling. There could be just a few extra color options and new wheel patterns as the reports suggest.
The upcoming model goes on sale after the last year refresh and there won’t be any significant styling change until the next redesign. The last refresh bought the new headlights and bumper for a more modern look.
Interior:
The recent refresh brought styling, suspension and tech updates but there wasn’t any notable change related to the in-cab design. The things will remain the same when the next 2021 Lexus RX 450h version goes on sale as well.
Like every Lexus, the RX 450h has a luxurious cabin with exceptional material and build quality. The brand is also known for delivering exceptional comfort. The RX 450h comes with comfortable seats in both rows. The model provides 18 cubic feet for the cargo behind the rear seats.
The RX 450h uses attractive and high-quality materials. The cabin mixes two-tone upholstery with elegant metal and wood inserts. There will be dark and light in-cab patterns on offer.
Equipment:
The upcoming model comes with standard features such as dual-zone climate control, a power liftgate, simulated leather upholstery, etc. The model gets also an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto and nine speakers by default. Standard safety equipment includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, active lane control, adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams.
Available packages such as Premium and Luxury will add features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof and more.
The base model can be upgraded with the Navigation package which adds a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen, 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, and navigation.
The F Sport gets sportier styling and suspension and more premium features by default. The interior of this model gets unique touches and sport front seats. The Performance package brings adaptive suspension dampers and re-tuned steering.
2021 Lexus RX 450h: Powertrain
The 2021 Lexus RX 450h returns with the same powertrain setup. The model relies on the hybrid unit to reduce emissions and provide better fuel economy.
The model uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine like the non-hybrid RX 350 model but the Atkinson cycle version. The engine works in conjunction with an electric motor-generator setup and continuously variable transmission. The model is the all-wheel drive by default. Two electric motor-generators motivate front wheels while the third is responsible for the rear axle. The combined output is 308 hp.
At the efficiency level, the RX 450h earned 31 mpg city, 28 highway and 30 combined at the last EPA testing. The same should be with the upcoming version.
2021 Lexus RX 450h: Release, Price
The 2021 Lexus RX 450h should go on sale this fall. The price should remain close to the current range. The RX hybrid should start around $47, 000.