2010 Lexus RX 450h

The hybrid experts at TheCarConnection.com researched and drove the 2010 Lexus RX 450h to put together this complete review. Editors studied and assembled the best, most incisive opinions from around the Web, while adding opinions and observations where they help you to make a better shopping decision.

Likes
Smooth, controlled ride
The Lexus ownership experience
New Remote Touch controller has cutting-edge feel
Big boost to EPA city fuel-economy numbers

Dislikes
Remote Touch is still a computer interface
Looks very, very similar to outgoing version
Driving feel is less pleasing than gas-only version
Highway fuel economy not much better than gas-only version

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h carries a torch--for advanced hybrid technology, for better fuel economy, but mostly, for the luxurious look and feel of the previous model. It's so close in shape to the outgoing RX 400h, it's hard for observers to tell the difference from the previous crossover hybrid's shape.

There are subtle differences, though, from the old version to the new 2010 Lexus RX 450h. The details are finessed--smaller headlamps, skinnier rear glass, a more pinched appearance from the side. The overall appearance is somewhat less imposing than before, but still handsome. The cockpit suffers a bit; the new shapes and textures of the dash, particularly the center console, are a little less rich and inviting, and less wood trim covers the dash. It can be difficult to tell the hybrid RX 450h from the gas-only RX 350, too; differences amount to blue-lit gauges, a tinted grille, and a tweaked front bumper, as well as small hybrid logos and optional 19-inch wheels.