Beauty, style, and performance are no strangers to the luxury market, but Lexus seems to do it better than the rest. While their sedans and coupes have long been a staple of opulence, the RX series has gathered momentum over the past few years to become their best seller. In 2018, the RX 450hL becomes the first of the fourth-generation RX to offer both a hybrid powertrain and an extended body for more cargo and passenger space. Here’s why drivers and critics are loving the all-new 2018 Lexus RX 450hL.
The Hybrid Powertrain
A luxurious hybrid SUV has been an oxymoron since hybrids became commonplace. But as more drivers try to reduce their carbon footprints and emissions, the segment has enjoyed steady growth. However, no other luxury SUV boasts a powertrain as sophisticated as the RX 450hL.
Under the hood, the 2018 RX 450hL gets a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 that pairs with two electric motors to provide a stunning 308 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. This pairs with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive for a smooth, quiet, and agile ride whether you’re on the interstate or downtown.
Efficiency, Emissions, and Surprising Power
Whether you’re eco-conscious or you just want to save some money at the pump, the 2018 Lexus RX 450 hL delivers. Thanks to its super-efficient powertrain and regenerative braking, the SUV gets a whopping 29 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined. This places the RX 450hL far above many of its competitors with regard to fuel economy, rivaling some of the more established competition in the market.
Superb fuel economy is one thing, but the Lexus RX 450hL does it one better. It also received the EPA’s Super Low-Emission Vehicle (SULEV) certification, which is an honor only achieved by about 20 vehicles each year.
What makes the RX 450hL even more impressive is that it doesn’t hang its hat on efficiency and reduced emissions. With its 3.5-liter engine, it can still burn down the road, offering a 0-60 in just 8.1 seconds along with a scorching top speed of 112 mph. When you need to get up and go, this beauty has your back.
Space, Space, and More Space
If you didn’t know, the “L” in the RX 450 hL’s name stands for long. That’s because it stretches an additional 4.3 inches over its regular-sized RX sibling. Though it may not seem like an excessive amount of space, it allows the RX 450hL to become the RX’s first seven-seat option, while also boasting 58 cubic feet of total cargo space.
Interior Amenities
The 2018 RX 450 hL has all of the Lexus traits: comfort, technology, and convenience. Leather seating cradles your body as you drive, while wood-grain trim adds a touch of elegance. Other highlights include the Lexus Enform App Suite, a best-in-class 12.3-inch touch screen with navigation, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted controls, and premium sound.
Before the debut of the 2018 Lexus RX 450hL, finding efficiency, versatility, convenience, and luxury in one package would prove a fruitless venture. Now, it’s just as easy as walking into the showroom.
Image courtesy of Lexus.com
Connect with us
