Test drive: 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ half-steps into future

One of the most important vehicles in the Lexus lineup, the RX, finally plugs in. The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid arrives on the scene with 37 miles of electric range from the Toyota RAV4 Prime’s powertrain, in a more eye-catching and softer-to-the-touch package.

As I found in a recent drive of the RX 450h+, this translates to a luxurious crossover SUV with usable electric-only range, comfortable ride, and competitive technology.

But it’s not cheap; it’s not elegant; and Lexus’ tech foibles carry over from the standard RX and other models.

Here are the pros and cons of the 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ after spending a week plugging in and hauling the family around town.

2024 Lexus RX 450h+

Pro: Lexus RX 450h+ provides all-wheel drive in electric only mode

Unlike the plug-in hybrid Volvo XC60, the Lexus RX 450+’s plug-in hybrid powertrain can be locked to stay in electric-only mode. Volvo’s system will automatically kick in the gas engine when the accelerator is mashed to the floor, but Lexus doesn’t engage the gas engine in EV only mode unless the juice runs out. The system also provides all-wheel-drive confidence in slippery situations. The Toyota RAV4 Prime’s plug-in hybrid powertrain has effectively been fitted to the RX 450h+ with a bunch of extra sound deadening. It features two motor-generators as part of a planetary drive system, plus a separate electric motor on the rear axle. Volvo’s system is rear-wheel drive when in electric-only mode because of the packaging of a single electric motor with the transmission.

2024 Lexus RX 450h+

Con: Lexus RX 450h+ is expensive

The 2024 Lexus 450h+ costs $71,930 including a mandatory $1,350 destination charge. That’s $18,480 more than the RX Hybrid and $20,630 more than the base RX 350 because the plug-in only comes in the top Luxury trim. It would take longer than me calculating to make that premium up in fuel savings. My tester cost $76,505 and included adaptive LED headlights for $1,565; a Convenience Package costing $1,420 and adding a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist; and the worthwhile Mark Levinson sounds system upgrade for $1,160. That’s more than an electric 2025