2018 Lexus RX 450hL
What’s new
- All-new model
- Based on the fourth RX generation introduced in 2016
Pros
- Impeccable cabin finished with top-quality materials and construction
- Advanced safety features come standard
- Excellent fuel economy for a luxury crossover
- Wide cargo bay makes it easy to load luggage and groceries
Cons
- Third-row space is tight for anyone other than small children
- Less overall cargo capacity than competitors
- Optional tech interface is clever but distracting to use while driving
2018 Lexus RX 450hL pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which RX 450hL does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
The Lexus RX has long been known for its excellent build quality, easy handling, quiet interior and reliability. What it hasn't been known for, though, is being able to seat more than five people. But that changes with the new 2018 Lexus RX 450hL. Like its similarly new sibling, the RX 350L, the RX 450hL has a longer body and an extra row of seats.
Those extra seats aren't very roomy, though. Even with the second-row seats slid all the way forward, there's barely enough room for an average-size adult. Also, while you get more cargo space in this L version compared to the regular RX, it's not dramatically more. Then again, Lexus doesn't intend the 450hL to be a massive family taxi. It's more for people who want a vehicle that can provide occasional seating for a couple extra kids without costing a whole lot or being a lumbering beast to drive.
On that front, the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL succeeds. It drives much like the regular RX, too, providing quiet and care-free motoring. Being the hybrid version of the RX family, it's also impressively fuel-efficient. It gets 29 mpg combined, which is just 1 mpg less than the regular 450h.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL is a six- or seven-passenger midsize hybrid SUV that comes with three rows of seating and all-wheel drive. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that works with a pair of front-mounted electric motor/generators through a continuously variable automatic transmission to drive the front wheels, while a third electric motor powers the rear wheels. Total system output is 308 horsepower.
Standard equipment highlights for the base RX 450hL include 18-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting (headlights, foglights, taillights and running lights), automatic high beams, automatic wipers, a power liftgate, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and automatic braking, lane departure warning and intervention, a sunroof, and keyless ignition and entry. Inside, the RX comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and a power-folding 50/50-split third-row seat.
Standard tech features include the Remote Touch interface, a 8-inch display, Safety Connect emergency communications, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker sound system.
The RX 450hL's Luxury trim level (which can also be considered a package) adds 20-inch wheels, rear side sunshades, LED ambient lighting, illuminated doorsills, auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors, a heated wood steering wheel, perforated-leather seating surfaces, and front-seat power lumbar and thigh-extension adjustments.
A Premium package adds wood interior trim, driver-seat memory settings, auto-dimming and folding side mirrors, and a storage compartment in the rear armrest.
Like other RX models, a package bundling navigation with a Mark Levinson premium audio system is available. It includes a 15-speaker surround-sound system plus a 12.3-inch display, Enform smartphone connectivity, and a climate-control smog sensor.
An optional Cold Weather package includes a windshield wiper de-icer, an upgraded interior heater with quicker warm-up time, auto-leveling headlamps and headlamp washers, and automatic wipers.
Stand-alone options include a color head-up display, a hands-free liftgate, upgraded LED headlights, a surround-view camera system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert (includes automatic braking), front and rear parking sensors, 60/40-split folding second-row seats, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Trim tested
Driving
Acceleration
Drivability
Off-road
Comfort
Seat comfort
Noise & vibration
Interior
Ease of use
Getting in/getting out
Driving position
Roominess
Visibility
Quality
Utility
Small-item storage
Cargo space
Technology
Audio & navigation
Smartphone integration
Driver aids
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite RX 450hL safety features:
- Lexus Safety System+
- Includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, automatic braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.
- Lexus Enform Safety Connect
- Automatically alerts emergency services in the event of a crash or distress. Also includes a stolen-vehicle locator.
- Panoramic Rearview Camera
- Gives a broad look at what's behind you before you back up, taking advantage of the 12.3-inch widescreen display.
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Lexus RX 450hL vs. the competition
2018 Lexus RX 450hL
2018 Acura MDX
Lexus RX 450hL vs. Acura MDX
The MDX Hybrid is bigger on the inside and more powerful than the RX. Its third-row seat is a little roomier, too. For a sporty choice, it's the way to go. The RX, however, provides a softer and quieter ride. It also has a more luxurious-looking interior. Both vehicles have mediocre infotainment systems.
Lexus RX 450hL vs. Volvo XC90
The XC90 has better interior ergonomics and one of the sleekest designs, both interior and exterior, on the market today. The Lexus comes up short on performance and passenger comfort compared to the XC90. Advantages to the RX 450hL include a lower price point, proven reliability and a smoother ride.
Lexus RX 450hL vs. Audi Q7
Although not available as a hybrid, the Audi Q7 is a great premium three-row SUV. It features similar build quality, exterior dimensions and interior features. The Q7 also handles and performs better and has an easier-to-use third-row seat. The Lexus has a softer and smoother ride and is more affordable, too.
2018 Lexus RX 450hL for Sale
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Edmunds shoppers get on average $235 more for their trade-in.
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See your car's valueThe 2018 Lexus RX 450hL manages to combine luxury and efficiency in an eminently practical SUV, creating a true luxury crossover hybrid. Being a Lexus, the midsize RX 450hL has plenty of luxurious trappings. Materials quality and workmanship are as top-notch as you'd expect from Lexus. There's also plenty of technology, including new safety items such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, auto high beams and adaptive cruise control.
Then there's the additional utility you expect with a crossover. The RX 450hL features third-row seats, and the RX's traditional sloping rear roofline was flattened in the 450hL to accommodate the heads of third-row passengers. As a result, the RX 450hL has increased ability to carry especially large or bulky objects. And with the rear seats up, it offers more capacity than any large sedan on the market, and lowering the second- and third-row seats allows for up to 58.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
Finally, there's the hybrid powertrain. The 308-horsepower combination of a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 with two electric motors up front and a third motor powering the rear wheels provides adequate performance and admirable fuel economy. The EPA rates the all-wheel-drive RX 450hL at 29 mpg combined (29 city/28 highway). To put those numbers in perspective, the non-hybrid RX 350 all-wheel-drive model comes in at 22 mpg combined (19 city/26 highway).
The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL comes well-equipped and can be upgraded with assorted option packages, though not all of them are offered in every part of the country. Extras, such as a color head-up display, hands-free liftgate operation, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, will appeal to buyers looking for more tech. The standard second-row captain's chairs can be replaced with a 40/20/40-split folding bench seat, but you'll have to get the Luxury package first.
If the RX 450hL has its flaws, they're largely limited to the details. The Remote Touch system to access choices on the menu-based central display takes some getting used to. And most adults won't be able to sit in the third row. All that said, the RX 450hL manages to excel at being both a practical luxury crossover and a respectable fuel-sipping hybrid. If that sounds like the vehicle you're looking for, Edmunds can help you decide which options to get and find the best deal in your area.
2018 Lexus RX 450hL Overview
The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL is offered in the following submodels: RX 450hL SUV. Available styles include 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), and Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT).
What do people think of the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 RX 450hL 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 RX 450hL.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 RX 450hL featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2018 Lexus RX 450hL?
2018 Lexus RX 450hL Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $64,210. The average price paid for a new 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is trending $5,443 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,443 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$58,767.
The average savings for the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is8.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 19 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Lexus RX 450hL 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $57,910. The average price paid for a new 2018 Lexus RX 450hL 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is trending $4,993 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,993 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$52,917.
The average savings for the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is8.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 52 2018 Lexus RX 450hL 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 Lexus RX 450hLS are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Lexus RX 450hL for sale near. There are currently 89 new 2018 RX 450hLS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $58,347 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $5,443 on a used or CPO 2018 RX 450hL available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2018 Lexus RX 450hLs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Lexus RX 450hL for sale - 3 great deals out of 24 listings starting at $8,288.
Find a new Lexus for sale - 1 great deals out of 13 listings starting at $25,013.
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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2018 Lexus RX 450hL?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Lexus lease specials
Check out Lexus RX 450hL lease specials
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2018 Lexus RX 450hL Information
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Build and Price TMV®
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Incentives & Rebates
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Consumer Discussions
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Consumer Reviews
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Features & Specs
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Pictures
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Review
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Dealer Price Quotes
- Used 2018 Lexus RX 450hL For Sale Near Me
- 2018 Lexus RX 450hL Ownership Costs