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2018 Lexus RX 450hL

2018 Lexus RX 450hL
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MSRP range
$50,620 - $54,555
Consumer Rating
(1)
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2018 Lexus RX 450hL
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What’s new

  • All-new model
  • Based on the fourth RX generation introduced in 2016
New
2019
2018

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
Save as much as $5,443

2018 Lexus RX 450hL pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which RX 450hL does Edmunds recommend?

The amount of standard equipment on the RX 450hL is impressive, but we recommend getting the Luxury trim level. On top of standard equipment such as tri-zone climate control, LED lighting and a power-folding third-row seat, the Luxury trim level adds heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, upgraded leather upholstery, and heated second-row seats. The Luxury trim level is reasonably priced, too, without a lot of superfluous equipment.

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

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our first drive of the Lexus RX 450hL (hybrid 3.5L V6 | CVT automatic | AWD).

Driving

Considering what you get in fuel economy — the presumptive reason you buy the RX 450hL instead of an RX 350L — performance is admirable. It moves out with seamless authority; the steering, handling and braking are much the same as in the regular RX except for a little extra weight.

Acceleration

The hybrid powertrain includes a stout 3.5-liter V6 engine, and the system delivers seamless acceleration in all conditions. Lexus says the 450hL has a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 8.1 seconds, which isn't far off the 7.9 seconds for a standard RX 350 AWD.

Drivability

The strong V6 engine rarely has to rev high enough to make the electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission obvious — annoying droning is rare. The brakes avoid the typical hybrid weirdness, as does the rest of the RX 450hL in general.

Off-road

The rear-drive portion of the AWD system is just an electric motor that engages for a number of seconds when slip is detected, such as during ice and snow launches. It's just a traction aid, not a true AWD system that can deliver sustained propulsion.

Comfort

Like the RX 350, the 2018 RX 450hL is a comfortable place to spend time. The seats are handsome and comfortable, and the ride is smooth and composed without being overly buoyant. The hybrid drivetrain may make a few extra noises, but they are sufficiently muted.

Seat comfort

We like the thoroughly comfortable front seats, and the heating and cooling feature works great. The second-row seats recline and slide, but the third row is best left for kids.

Noise & vibration

There is very little wind or road noise, and the hybrid powertrain is oftentimes quite silent. Other times the hybrid CVT automatic holds engine revs higher, but the sound is muted. The regenerative braking system tends to emit muted whining noise.

Interior

The 2018 Lexus RX 450hL's cabin is great to look at and beautifully made. It's a real standout in the segment. But some controls are difficult to use, and the back seat isn't as generously sized as those of some rivals.

Ease of use

The cabin controls are logically laid out, and there's a good mix of knobs and buttons. But we're unconvinced by the joystick-like Remote Touch system needed to control many vehicle functions. It can be distracting to use.

Getting in/getting out

Front- and second-row passengers will find it easy to get into because the doorsills are narrow and the seat height is about perfect. The doors open wide, too, with nicely squared-off upper openings. But getting to the third row is difficult because of a narrow pass-through area.

Driving position

The current RX features a lower, more carlike driving position than some SUV rivals. We like this because it makes you feel more in control, yet it still provides a sufficiently commanding view out.

Roominess

There's more than enough head- and legroom up front, and there's a good amount of elbow room. But knee clearance and toe space can be tight if the backseat passenger and the driver are both taller than 6 feet. The third row is small and suitable for kids only.

Visibility

A sweeping view to the front and sides, with slender pillars and peek-a-boo windows ahead of the nice-size mirrors. The rear three-quarter blind spot is not terribly large. The decent direct rearward view is enhanced by the standard backup camera.

Quality

The RX 450hL boasts tremendous build quality. The materials look and feel rich, and they've been put together meticulously. Lexus really knows what it's doing. One of the key reasons to consider the RX.

Utility

Due to its slanted roofline that limits cargo versatility, the regular RX 450h is far from what we'd consider utilitarian. Enter the 2018 RX 450hL, with its flatter roofline. It should make a positive impact. The center console storage is small.

Small-item storage

The center console is really big, but most of it is taken up with the shifter, Remote Touch and drive settings controllers, and admittedly pretty wood trim. The cupholders are an OK size, but there aren't many places to store odds and ends.

Cargo space

The RX 450hL's straightened roofline reduces cargo space for bulky items compared to the shorter RX 350. It's really just a big trunk with an easy access height. Most similarly priced rivals are better. Both the second- and third-row backrests can be folded flat.

Technology

The RX 450hL comes standard with driving aids that are optional on its rivals and that can give you added peace of mind. We also like its enormous display screen. But the Remote Touch interface that controls it is a constant distraction and potential deal-breaker.

Audio & navigation

The Remote Touch interface — a joystick used to highlight icons on the 12.3-inch dashtop display — requires too much dexterity and concentration to use while driving. It's a distraction. We'd prefer almost any other tech interface.

Smartphone integration

Bluetooth and two USB ports are standard, as are the Lexus Enform and Enform Destinations trip planning and live assistance apps. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.

Driver aids

The RX 450hL comes standard with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and automatic braking (which can detect other cars and pedestrians), and lane keeping assist. These are optional on all rivals. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are optional.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL.

Overall Consumer Rating
5.01 reviews
Write a reviewSee all 1 reviews
5(100%)
4(0%)
3(0%)
2(0%)
1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

2018 450HL
willy,09/11/2018
Best value out there among LUX Hybrid SUV. My previous SUV was BMW X3 i35, MSRP $55k and the Lexus 450HL is $65k, I am paying .38 cents more a month for my lease but is 39 month verses 36 months. The options included in the Lexus blows away the BMW X3. For the same, I would need to get a X5 and that would run in the $70k+ range. the trade off is the handling but the comfort and the additional options and pricing are there to make you forget about it. Plus is larger in size and gets better gas mileage. you need to check it out before you make your final decision . worth a test drive or visit into a Lexus showroom.
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$50,620
MPG
31 city / 28 hwy
Seats 6
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Hybrid
308 hp @ 6000 rpm
MSRP
$54,555
MPG
31 city / 28 hwy
Seats 6
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Hybrid
308 hp @ 6000 rpm
See all 2018 Lexus RX 450hL 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.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    Overall4 / 5
    Driver4 / 5
    Passenger4 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
  • Side Barrier Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front Seat5 / 5
    Back Seat5 / 5
  • Rollover
    Rollover4 / 5
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of Rollover16.7%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Good
  • Roof Strength Test
    Good
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Good
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Good
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Good

Lexus RX 450hL vs. the competition

2018 Lexus RX 450hL

2018 Lexus RX 450hL

2018 Acura MDX

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.

Compare Lexus RX 450hL & Acura MDX features

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.

Compare Lexus RX 450hL & Volvo XC90 features

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.

Compare Lexus RX 450hL & Audi Q7 features

2018 Lexus RX 450hL for Sale

Lexus RX 450hL 2018 Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
New 2018
Lexus RX 450hL
Luxury
(3)
Pohanka Lexus of Chantilly
10.2 mi away
MSRP$64,817
Est.Loan: $1,121/mo
Fair Deal!Fair Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Packages P 2T All Weather Floor Liners with Cargo Mat P Z1 Cargo Net/Cargo Mat/Wheel Locks/Key Gloves Accessories F BP Blind Spot Monitor w/ Rear-Cross Traffic Braking/ Intuitive Park Assist and Panoramic View Monitor F CT Cold Weather Package: Windshield wiper deicer, headlamp cleaner F GF Color Heads-up Display F HF Touch Free Power Rear Door F HR Heated/Ventilated Front Seats & Heated Rear Seats F IN Triple-Beam LED Auto Leveling Headlamps with cleaners, cornering lamps, LED front turn signal lamps and rear combination lamps F LL Luxury Pkg: Semi-Aniline Leather-trim Seats, Power-folding Electrochromic Heated Outside Mirrors, Wood & Leather Heated Steering Wheel, 20 Super Chrome Alloy Wheels w/Color Inserts, Manual Rr Dr Sunshades, Driver's Seat/Steering/ Mirror Memory, LED Illuminated Scuff Plates, Sapele Wood w/Aluminum Trim, LED Ambient Illumination F NM 12.3 Navigation System/Mark Levinson 15-speaker Premium Audio Package, Lexus Enform Destinations (1-year trial subscription included), Lexus Enform App Suite (Complimentary)
Lexus RX 450hL 2018 Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
New 2018
Lexus RX 450hL
Luxury
(6)
Lexus of Rockville
18.3 mi away
MSRP$64,787
Est.Loan: $1,122/mo
View Details
Lexus RX 450hL 2018 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
New 2018
Lexus RX 450hL
Base
(20)
Lindsay Lexus of Alexandria
25.8 mi away
MSRP$58,347
Est.Loan: $1,009/mo
View Details

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More about the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL
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 - 12 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $25,050.

Find a new Lexus for sale - 3 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $19,554.

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Why trust Edmunds?

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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