Used 2018 Lexus RX 450h Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 RX 450h, so we've included reviews for other years of the RX 450h since its last redesign.
Best Family SUV for the Money
Emre Afsar, 08/09/2018
2018 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
39 of 40 people found this review helpful
I am an enthusiast and shopped for months for a larger family SUV. In terms of comfort, space, and fuel economy there is nothing in the market that comes close to the RX 450h. It feels solid and substantial behind the wheel. Effortless steering and acceleration, great visibility thanks to the A pillar and side mirror design. Whisper quiet at any speed and the hybrid powertrain works seamlessly. Definitely go with the upgraded 12.3 inch infotainment system as it has better input method with the joystick (as oppose to the wheel controller on the base system) and the definition of the screen is very high. Averaging 32 MPG on our first tank so far with the AC on all the time. Speaking of which it is the best AC system I have experienced in any car. Works in conjunction with the heated/ventilated seats and cools the cabin incredibly fast and works super quiet. No negatives or complaints so far, an excellent luxury mid-size SUV. Highly recommended!
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Lexus RX 450 > 350
TW, 01/13/2018
2017 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
37 of 38 people found this review helpful
I spent a lot of time shopping for my new car and ended up buying the Lexus RX 450h. Before settling on the RX 450h I drove many of the competing vehicles including Audi SQ5, Q7, Mercedes GLC AMG, GLE, Volvo XC60 and XC90. I also drove the Lexus RX 350 as well. Initially I wasn't looking for a hybrid but I am glad I drove the 450h and ended up buying it. I've driven other hybrids as rental cars over the years (Prius and Ford Fusion) and in most cases the switch between electric and gas isn't particularly smooth, not so in the RX. Other than hearing the gas engine, it's just continuous power and smoothly switches over. The CVT makes the vehicle incredibly smooth as well with no gear changes. For the 2017s, the hybrid carries a pretty big premium for the base vehicle but upon closer inspection, it comes with a lot of standard features and in the end it really only adds about $1800 to the price of the vehicle. For 2018, the hybrid packaging is different and now has the same features as the base 350. The premium is now only about $1000. For that you get, in my opinion a much smoother vehicle and much better gas mileage. Bottom line, even if you aren't interested in the hybrid for environmental reasons, I still think it is a better vehicle and worth the upgrade costs. To address one common complaint, the weakest part of the RX vehicles is the user interface for the entertainment/navigation system. The remote touch control isn't as convenient as some other systems but it is more than adequate. Some times the user interface is a bit more complex than needed. That said, you will get used to it and don't let that turn you off from a great vehicle. Bottom line, if you are going to test drive RXs, take an RX 450h for a spin. I think you will like it.
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One Sweet Ride
David K., 04/26/2016
updated 07/21/2016
2016 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
35 of 36 people found this review helpful
I really like the design of this car, contrary to what others have posted. To me it is modern and very distinct. The only negatives on the design are that the rear cargo area and visibility out the back window is somewhat limited. However, as soon as I got used to using the camera, mirror, and warning systems, visibility was not an issue. Also I am glad to give up a little cargo room to avoid the boxy rear on you see on most SUVs. The backup warning system lets you know if a car is coming when you are backing up. I don't know how it sees around corners, but it seems to. The design of the interior is amazing. I got the parchment and bamboo interior, and it feels and smells very luxurious. The seats are leather trimmed, but most surfaces are what Lexus calls NuLuxe, a synthetic leather. The material is not cheap feeling at all and is supposed to be a lot more durable and less prone to wear than real leather. It feels very substantial and leather-like. The bamboo is beautiful, especially on the steering wheel. The only vehicle I would compare to this Lexus is a classic Rolls Royce, circa 1960 ( I rode in one once). The car accelerates OK, it is no Tesla, but has plenty of torque on the low end when you press the pedal to the metal, thanks to the 3 electric engines. Braking has a different feel because of the hybrid system, but stops quickly for a 2 1/2 ton vehicle. Cornering is just OK. it is a tall, heavy car; not a sport car feel but what I would expect in a big luxury car. The vehicle has a tendency to over steer when you accelerate into a turn, which does not inspire confidence in handling. The ride is silky smooth and quiet. Passengers are well insulated from road noise and imperfections in the pavement. The remote opening 5th door is a convenience. The vehicle side doors seem heavy for such a luxurious vehicle. Everything else is so refined it seems like they would have some kind of power assist or counter balance. The rear door is always operated electronically. The Infotainment system is the only real negative I have for an otherwise superb vehicle. I have been working with the voice commands with varying degrees of success. The voice command options seem too limited. Lexus apparently went with its own navigation system rather than partner with somebody that knows what they are doing like Google or Garmin. Note to Toyota: you are a CAR company - why would you think you can make a competitive navigation system? You can't. And they want $240/year after the first year, much more than buying a better Garmin. The manual states you can integrate the voice command system with an iphone - and a small and otherwise worthless compartment in the middle console seems designed to hold a small iphone. The on-board bluetooth integrated my Samsung cellphone seamlessly into the car's voice and sound system. Mileage has been less than claimed, but has improved since the battery has become conditioned and I learned to drive the vehicle. I got 29 MPG (vs. claimed 28) on a recent highway trip, averaging 70 MPH. Around town I've averaged 26 MPG (vs. claimed 30), but that seems fine for such a heavy vehicle. Most of my trips are short, and the air conditioning is usually working at warp speed in our Las Vegas heat. The Lexus RX450h requires premium gas. I have driven a lot of nice cars, and this is the nicest. I love it.
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My second Lexus
JS, 03/20/2019
2018 Lexus RX 450h F SPORT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
I’ve had my RX450h F Sport for about 8 months now and have driven it for 8,500 miles. My lease was up on my 2015 IS 350 F Sport and I loved the color combo (Atomic Silver with Rioja Red) so I decided to go with the same combination on the RX. I’m also leasing this vehicle as I’ve never had a hybrid nor have I had any vehicles with a CVT. My original thoughts on the RX were that it’s a reliable, sleek Lexus that is affordable (compared to competition) and has a low cost of ownership. When originally test driving the RX Hybrid, I loved how smooth and quiet it was. My sister has a 2017 RX350, and I’ve had two of these as loaners. If you’re shopping for an RX, definitely consider both the 350 and the 450h. For 2018, Lexus reduced the price of the Hybrid. When comparing a fully loaded 350 vs. 450h, it was roughly $1k more for the hybrid. My RX has every option — 12 inch navigation package, Mark Levinson sound, parking assist, 360 camera, tribeam headlights, panoramic roof, tow prep package, etc. Pros - Lexus reliability and customer service - Smooth and quiet ride - F Sport adds a little more fun around corners - Red interior is gorgeous - Plethora of safety features - More than enough acceleration power for typical drivers (coming from someone who prefers small, sporty cars — I think the RX is plenty powerful) - Tribeam headlights are fantastic and the package comes with headlight washers, cornering lights, and self-leveling height - Extremely helpful 360 camera is a must-have (my favorite feature) Cons - Driver’s side exterior mirror shakes. The dealer replaced the entire mirror (swapped with a vehicle on their lot) but it still shakes. It’s not a one-off situation either — I’ve noticed the same in two loaner RXs (hybrid and regular) - F Sport seats have heavier side bolsters, which show wrinkles quite a bit - F Sport (and regular) seats show creases on the seat bottom pretty easily Overall, I highly recommend this generation RX! You really can’t go wrong, even with the few gripes I have.
Absolutely awesome redesign of this car.
Randy Ziemienski, 11/16/2015
2016 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
37 of 39 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for an high end hybrid SUV that has all the latest technology, power, comfort, luxury and eye catching style, then look no further! The new 2016 450h hybrid is not only the sportiest looking SUV on the market, but it is also provides a fantastic driving experience. I recently traded in my 2011 450h for the 2016 revised model and am just smiling ear to ear. Everyone I show it to is in awe. I was lucky enough to get in early on this vehicle and can tell you first hand that it is worth every penny. From the new and extended high tech navigation system to all the upgraded safety features, Lexus has hit the bullseye. Ergonomically, it is the most comfortable ride ever and at my age (59) this is critical to driver comfort and safety. Again, Lexus hits the mark on so many areas that I can't imagine driving anything else. By the way, I am just a consumer and these comments are real and true!
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A Rewarding Vehicle to Own
E. Garner, 02/03/2021
2018 Lexus RX 450h F SPORT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I've been driving my RX450h F Sport for nearly three years now and I have virtually no complaints. The ride is smooth though not necessarily luxurious. This model, with it's Adaptive Variable Suspension, handles the road surprisingly well. You wouldn't think so considering that this is a nearly 5,000 lb. vehicle with a driver at the helm. The F Sport Engine Sound enhancer can be a bit loud, but when the engine cuts off there's total silence; at first I forgot to realize that the vehicle was running. Lexus, unlike Toyota, provides only one year complimentary maintenance. So. learn how to change your own oil (every 5,000 miles/6 months), you'll save almost $100. While I'm on the subject of saving money, change you Engine Air Filter and your Cabin Air filter as well. There, that's a savings of $400 savings unless you like going to the Dealer every six months. I swap my All-season tires and Winter Tires every November and April, so there's no need to shell out $145 to rotate your tires. Everything works well, as I expected. There have been no recalls on my vehicle, only two minor Service Campaigns. I'm a retiree, so I'm never going to put 100,000 miles on this vehicle; I currently have less than 13,000. However, I opted for GEICO's 7yr/100,000 mi., Mechanical Breakdown insurance option. I value reliability over Frills and Thrills, I've owned vehicles like that over my 48 car-buying career. You don't necessarily have to purchase or lease a new one as long as you can find a low mileage 2017 or 2018 driven by a senior citizen in the suburbs. Oh, I forgot to mention, the mileage isn't too bad either; 27 mph combined. Check and change your oil and filters regularly and you'll be a happy camper for years to come. I wouldn't service my vehicle anywhere else but a Lexus Dealer. Still, keep in mind, second only to Veterinarians 70% of all mechanics exhibit some form of deceit. So, before your Service advisor completes the sentence "While we were checking...", stop them right there. Get to know your RX, learn how it drives, check for any unusual odors, and ask a mechanic you trust about any possible abnormalities regarding your vehicle. Because, this is a Luxury SUV, and repairing problems that you simply overlooked or put off WILL cost you a pretty penny when you walk out of the Service Center. Toyotas/Lexus vehicles are know for their reliability, I've owned an invincible Camry, and unbeatable Avalon Limited, and now an incomparable RX450h F Sport. I will never look at another woman, sorry...vehicle in this lifetime.
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Happy with my decision
paul, 07/30/2018
updated 01/31/2019
2018 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
comfortable, quiet ride - luxurious. Controls are annoying - mouse. Voice activation a big help. Needs quieter tires. Will replace originals with Michelin. Mileage lower in winter/cold 28.
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My Dream Car!
Geekteach, 03/31/2019
updated 04/13/2021
2016 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2016 RX 450h 3 years ago. Although my purchase experience at Lexus of Carlsbad (CA) was the absolute worst, the vehicle is awesome. I love its luxury package and its many safety features, the front CD/DVD player, the panoramic moonroof, the outstanding Mark Levinson audio system, the heated and cooling reclining seats, and it’s amazingly smooth and quiet ride quality. Although I didn’t purchase my RX there, Lexus of the Monterey Peninsula does a great job of servicing it. Unfortunately, desirable features as Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and wireless charging aren’t available. There are a few RX features that deserve a thumbs down. The infotainment system and mouse are a nightmare; the grab bar placement is ridiculous; and console storage is inadequate. Also, be forewarned that the Bridgestone Ecopia tires that came with the car were bald at 12,000 miles (despite meticulous maintenance). Otherwise, I love the RX hybrid. I’m probably a Lexus owner for life, but I will NEVER again buy a vehicle from Lexus of Carlsbad!
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Nice and luxurious
Nate Mohan, 02/07/2017
2017 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
25 of 27 people found this review helpful
When Lexus redesigned the RX last year, I was a little disappointed that they deviated from the traditional rounded shape to a more aggressive styling. But, the style grew on me and now I think that it's actually a better look. The redesigned interior dash design is definitely much better than before. There is quite a bit of learning curve to get familiar with the technology. The manuals are poorly designed and printed and online information is far from helpful. The navigation system is quite limited and the voice command system is unpredictable. I do enjoy driving this car very much because of the nice and quite ride. I bought the hybrid which gets around 28 mpg which is very nice even though premium gasoline is required. Couple of annoying things while driving are the fairly loud hum when braking (due to regenerative brake system) and the slight hesitation when starting from a traffic stop (due to switching from hybrid to gas).
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Making Lemonade With This Lexus Lemon
Mike Tinsley, 09/26/2017
2016 Lexus RX 450h 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
29 of 32 people found this review helpful
Hopefully, the problems I've had are unique. At 1438 miles, had to replace the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel gauge and brake pump booster; in shop 21 days. At 10,019 miles, scheduled lift gate recall repair and oil change; took 45 days to get part and second trip to dealer for installation of part. At 12067 miles, replaced leaking transaxle oil seal. At 20,140 miles, replaced same leaking transaxle oil seal for second time and replaced transaxle itself. According to my service adviser, the transaxle was scored and was a factory defect; took 6 days to receive part. At 20,153 miles, the air conditioner on the driver's side quit (I live in Texas and the temp was still near 100); took 16 days to get damper servo so it could be repaired. On one occasion, the radio was on, but no sound would emit regardless of what I tried; restarting the engine caused it to work again. On one occasion, several warning lights flashed, but I couldn't tell which ones they were since I was driving. I've been driving a Lexus hybrid for almost 4 years, and know how to start it. About 20% of the time, I have to try a second time to start the car. None of the electrical problems created an error code and the service department can't replicate them. Fortunately, I leased the car, and it will be returned at the end of the lease. My wife and I really wanted to keep this car (I even flew at my expense from Dallas to San Antonio to get it as it was exactly what we wanted and was the only one of its kind in North America), but it's been far too unreliable for us to do so. I'm grateful all these problems have been handled under warranty, and I'm grateful that the dealer always provides a quality loaner for us to use when our car is in the shop.
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