Test Drive: Lexus RX450h+ Offers Flexible Electric and Hybrid Driving

The front view of the Lexus RX450h+ parked at the Seongbuk Community Center in Seoul. [Photo by Oh Ju-seok]

The side view of the Lexus RX450h+ parked at the Seongbuk Community Center in Seoul. [Photo by Oh Ju-seok]

The first impression of the Lexus RX450h+ is its striking copper-toned exterior. The bronze color subtly shifts in the sunlight, exuding a sense of luxury that stands out in any setting.

During the May holiday, I tested the RX450h+ in Seoul and the Boryeong area of South Chungcheong Province. This vehicle is notable for being a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and part of the increasingly popular sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

Activating the EV mode on the console, I noticed the driving range displayed on the dashboard, based on internal combustion, remained at 790 km. Even after driving through downtown Seoul, this number barely decreased. It was only when I thought, "I’m driving through Seoul for free," that I saw the electric driving range drop from 24 km to 15 km on the left side of the dashboard.

The RX450h+ allows drivers to switch seamlessly between electric and hybrid modes based on their needs. Notably, when driving in hybrid mode, the electric vehicle battery charges automatically, allowing for a dual benefit.

On May 1, while traveling from Seoul to Boryeong for a business trip, the benefits of EV mode became evident. The vehicle operated almost entirely on the electric motor, with minimal engine engagement. The smooth ride in low-speed urban areas felt akin to that of an electric sedan.

The charging port of the Lexus RX450h+. [Photo by Lexus International]

The RX450h+ is equipped with an 18.1 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery, enabling approximately 56 km of driving in electric mode when fully charged. For drivers who frequently commute or travel within urban areas, the option to charge at a parking facility makes it a practical choice for electric driving.

Once on the West Coast Highway, the vehicle's character shifted again. Engaging hybrid mode activated the 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, delivering a refreshing acceleration. The engine and electric motor worked together seamlessly to increase speed.

During heavy traffic between Hwaseong and Pyeongtaek, I experienced the effectiveness of the driver assistance systems. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) maintained a stable distance from the vehicle ahead, even in slow-moving traffic.

The driver's seat of the Lexus RX450h+. [Photo by Oh Ju-seok]

In fact, even in stop-and-go traffic at around 30 km/h, the vehicle responded smoothly without abrupt acceleration or deceleration. When traveling over 100 km/h, if the car in front suddenly slowed down, the RX450h+ naturally adjusted its speed. This feature significantly reduced fatigue during long drives.

The interior focuses on Lexus's signature comfort. The driver's seat incorporates the Tazuna concept, inspired by horseback riding, enhancing the connection between the driver and the vehicle. It feels more like a refined, eco-friendly vehicle than an aggressive sports car, showcasing a new direction for Lexus in the era of electrification.

* This article has been translated by AI.

Oh Jooseok farbrother@ajunews.com