Lexus RX 450hL
from the five-seater RX as this extended version is a self-charging full hybrid system using the same 3.6-litre direct injection V6 259bhp petrol engine along with two AC electric motors - one powering the front wheels and the other the rear wheels making it an all-wheel drive system providing a total of 308bhp.
There’s also the same CVT transmission as is the Drive Mode Select system where the driver can choose between different settings - Eco, Normal and Sport. There’s also all the safety features featured on the five-seater RX and it has the Euro five-star NCAP rating too.
From a driver’s point of view in all honesty there’s not too much difference in how this seven-seater drives and handles compared to the five-seater - most motorists won’t notice a change - although putting it into sport mode does give a little extra punch in terms of acceleration.
This latest version, like all the other RX models, is about enjoying a comfortable, smooth performance that’s quiet, corners well and with such an excellent CVT gearbox it’s extremely relaxing to drive whether in and around busy city streets or out on the open motorway.
Fuel consumption is rated officially at 47.9mpg which equates to a CO2 emission figure of 136g/km while on the performance front it can manage 0 to 60mph in eight seconds with a top speed of 112mph.
Even on the launch driving around the narrow, twisty mountain roads of Switzerland it remained stable, competent without any dramas helped too by its excellent adaptive suspension and general sure-footedness.
This Lexus hybrid system is still currently the best on the market in my book because it’s highly efficient, smooth and quiet making the car so relaxing to drive and be a passenger.
It really doesn’t matter which of the three trim/equipment levels chosen it’s executive style all the way with the cabin layout and good, fully lumbar supporting seats and the overall interior finish is top class while for the driver all the control and instruments are simply sensibly laid out and so easy to use.
The entry-level SE grade is a good package with its 18-inch sevenspoke alloy wheels, full navigation system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power tailgate, LED lights and much more.
Obviously moving up to the slightly more expensive Luxury and finally Premier kitted models which both sit on 20-inch wheels there’s even more quality furnishings and fittings and again the interior just oozes quality from end to end.
At the end of the day though as to whether a buyer goes for the five or seven-seater then naturally it’s down to individual needs and tastes - for example that extra £2,305 for the SE with those extra seats is well worth it if a large family has the need for a top premium SUV with extra space.
As usual it’s horses for courses but one thing is certain - this latest batch of RX SUVs won’t disappoint.