The hybrid system remains a tale of two halves: we like the EV-only mode and the regeneration (or “self-charging” as Lexus calls it) viability, and the motor plus the 3.5-litre V6 engine makes for some serious performance. But we’re still not sold on the CVT transmission, which whirrs up and down the band as you step on the throttle and adds to a noisy powertrain under acceleration.
It’s that ride, though, which has left us wowed, and the generous space. In the large premium sector, SUVs still make a certain amount of sense.
Lexus RX Specifications
- Price: £52,705
- Engine: 3.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol, plus two electric motors
- Combined power/torque: 313PS (308bhp) @ 6,000rpm/NA
- Transmission: CVT, all-wheel-drive
- 0-62mph: 7.7 seconds
- Top speed: 124mph
- Combined economy: 35.3mpg
- Kerb weight: 2,100kg