2022 Lexus

tight situations, the SUV handles all challenges.

Throughout its lineup, Lexus vehicles offer a near-exhaustive list of standard features. The base RX 450h equipment highlights include: 18-inch alloy wheels, simulated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ninespeaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon and Alexa integration. The Mark Levinson sound system, an industry standard, provides superior sound.

Rain-sensing windshield wipers, a wireless mobile phone charger, powerfolding outside mirrors, a power liftgate, keyless entry and push-button engine start and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard. Satellite radio and six USB ports are also included.

Lexus is at the forefront of technology with its Enform service. It offers safety, remote and Wi-Fi connectivity accessible through an application.

The reviewed F-Sport trim has sporty styling and sporty engine dynamics, including: 20-inch alloy wheels, updated lighting and trim elements, F Sport gauge cluster, sport-bolstered front seats and seatposition driving memory for the driver.

The F Sport Handling package further improves handling and comfort with an adaptive suspension, sport S+ driving mode, sport-tuned steering and heated steering wheel.

Real wood is used as accents in the cabin. The rear seat slides and reclines with ease. Lexus manufactures cars with a purpose. Materials are first-class, used in a well-orchestrated smooth design with all parts ideally positioned. It’s like driving while sitting in an interior decorator’s family room.

Utility is still important in vehicles called SUVs. The RX 450h has 16 cubic feet of trunk space. While not as spacious as some competitors, the area isn’t restricted by design obstructions. With the vehicle’s 40/20/40split folding rear seats folded the total space holds lots of luggage, groceries, golf clubs, soccer equipment, etc. The towing capacity is 3,500 pounds.

The RX 450h gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined (31 city/28 highway), another attractive feature. The MSRP is $53,820. Options and related charges push the price to $61,650.

That’s a chunk. But considering the average price of a new car in the United States is now more than $45,000, the 2022 Lexus RX 450h, particularly the F-Sport trim, is worthy.

It’s an economical, modern-looking, sporty SUV. Its $15,000 cost above the average new car price is justified.