Lexus RX 450h is a luxury hybrid SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, and an impressive list of features. The RX 450h has been a popular choice among Nigerian car buyers due to its reliability, performance, and style. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of the Lexus RX 450h, its engine, interior, known faults, and buyer advice.

Price in Nigeria

The price of the Lexus RX 450h in Nigeria can vary depending on the model year, condition, and features. On average, a used 2015 Lexus RX 450h can be purchased for around ₦10 million to ₦13 million, while a newer 2020 model can cost anywhere from ₦25 million to ₦40 million. It is important to note that prices can vary based on location and the specific features included with the vehicle.

Pros

1. Fuel Efficiency: One of the most significant advantages of the Lexus RX 450h is its hybrid powertrain, which delivers excellent fuel efficiency. The RX 450h has an estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient luxury SUVs on the market.
2. Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The RX 450h’s interior is well-designed and spacious, with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The cabin is also well-insulated, providing a quiet and peaceful driving experience.
3. Impressive Safety Features: The RX 450h comes with a wide range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and keep drivers and passengers safe on the road.
4. Smooth and Quiet Ride: The RX 450h’s hybrid powertrain provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, making it an excellent choice for long-distance trips and daily commutes.

Cons

1. Limited Cargo Space: While the RX 450h’s interior is spacious and comfortable, the cargo space is relatively small compared to other luxury SUVs. With the rear seats in place, the RX 450h has 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 55.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
2. Expensive Price Tag: The RX 450h is a luxury vehicle, which means it comes with a higher price tag than many other SUVs on the market. While the hybrid powertrain can help offset the cost of fuel, the initial purchase price may be too high for some buyers.
3. Less Responsive Handling: While the RX 450h is a smooth and quiet ride, some drivers may find that it lacks the responsive handling of other luxury SUVs. The steering can feel vague, and the suspension may not be as sporty as some drivers would prefer.

Known Faults

Like any vehicle, the Lexus RX 450h has some known faults that buyers should be aware of. One of the most common issues reported by owners is with the hybrid battery system, which can fail prematurely and require expensive repairs. Some owners have also reported issues with the transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Buyers should also be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs with the RX 450h due to its hybrid powertrain. While hybrid vehicles can be more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly, they can also require more specialized maintenance and repairs.

Engine

The Lexus RX 450h is powered by a hybrid powertrain that consists of a 3.5-liter V6 engine and two electric motors. The engine produces 259 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motors add an additional 165 horsepower. The powertrain is mated to a

continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers power to all four wheels via an all-wheel-drive system.

The RX 450h’s hybrid powertrain provides excellent fuel efficiency, with an estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The hybrid powertrain also delivers smooth and quiet acceleration, making it an excellent choice for drivers who value a comfortable and refined driving experience.

One potential issue with the RX 450h’s hybrid powertrain is with the hybrid battery system. Some owners have reported premature battery failure, which can be costly to replace. However, Lexus offers a warranty on the hybrid battery system for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, providing some peace of mind for buyers.

Interior

The interior of the Lexus RX 450h is well-designed and comfortable, with high-quality materials and a range of features. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and provide excellent support for long-distance trips.

The dashboard is well-laid-out, with easy-to-use controls and a large infotainment display screen. The infotainment system includes features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system. Other features included with the RX 450h include dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.

One potential issue with the RX 450h’s interior is the limited cargo space. With the rear seats in place, the RX 450h has only 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 55.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This may be a concern for buyers who need ample cargo space for hauling larger items.

Buyer Advice

If you are considering purchasing a Lexus RX 450h, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs due to the hybrid powertrain. While the hybrid powertrain can provide excellent fuel efficiency, it may require more specialized maintenance and repairs, which can be costly.

It is also important to research the vehicle’s history and potential faults before making a purchase. Look for a vehicle with a clean history and low mileage, and consider having the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before making a purchase.

When test driving the vehicle, pay attention to the handling and ride quality to ensure it meets your preferences. If you are looking for a sporty and responsive SUV, the RX 450h may not be the best choice.

Finally, consider the features and options included with the vehicle to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. The RX 450h comes with a wide range of features, but some may be more important to you than others. Consider your must-have features and look for a vehicle that includes them.

Conclusion

The Lexus RX 450h is a luxury hybrid SUV that offers excellent fuel efficiency, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a range of impressive features. While there are some potential faults and drawbacks to be aware of, the RX 450h is a reliable and well-designed vehicle that is a popular choice among Nigerian car buyers. If you are in the market for a luxury SUV with excellent fuel efficiency, the Lexus RX 450h is definitely worth considering.