There are plenty of options available if you want to buy the Lexus RX. The redesigned SUV is now out with a few engine choices, including hybrid and performance versions. The 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD is an interesting configuration. A hybrid system is enhancing the mileage of the petrol engine, while the Direct4 all-wheel drive boosts traction and handling properties. Anyway, it is definitely an upgrade compared to the standard RX350 and RX350h. But, if you need more power, the RX500h+ F Sport Performance is offering way better specs.
The base hybrid setup is available in the base, Premium, Premium Plus and Luxury grades. For the F Sport, you need the RX500h+ model. So, plenty of options for the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD. The main highlight is the gas mileage. There are no too many SUVs that can do at least 30 mpg, and the premium model goes up to 36 miles per gallon combined.
2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD Hybrid Engine Specs
So, under the hood of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD is a 2.5-liter petrol engine in a combination with an electric battery. Like for the Toyota Highlander, the company sacrifices the V6 engine and 50 horsepower to gain extra mileage. 246 horsepower is not going to impress you. Acceleration is sluggish and the SUV needs 7.6 seconds to sprint 0-60 mph. But, that is why you have the RX500h with extra power and torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all wheels. AWD is standard for hybrid units. In the city, the RX350h can do 37 mpg and 34 mpg on the open road. Combined, that is 36 mpg.
The RX500h+ improves the outputs to 366 hp and 406 lb-ft. Such a configuration needs 5.8 sec for a 0-60 mph run. Like said, AWD is standard, called Direct4. The fuel economy is not bad at all for this amount of power – 27 mpg combined. If you choose a non-hybrid version, then a 2.4-liter turbo-four engine can do 275 hp and 317 lb-ft. Acceleration is nearly the same as for the hybrid system, but the fuel economy drops by 10 miles per gallon. Here, an AWD is an optional upgrade.
Equipment and Accessories
The premium brand packs its vehicles with advanced features. The most important one is a very efficient engine. Plus, the new Direc4 AWD provides a unique driving experience. But, we already talked about the drivetrain. Nevertheless, a similar situation is inside the cockpit.
The base version is using 19-inch wheels, heated mirrors, and a power liftgate. Fans love LED lamps for all light groups. Lexus RX hybrid comes with the keyless entry feature, ambient lighting and 3-zone climate control. Those options already indicate that the SUV is pretty luxurious. We would also like to praise the power-adjustable steering wheel and upscale artificial leather.
By upgrading to the Premium grade, you get parking sensors. By the way, automatic beams, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist are the standard safety options. Inside, you will find memory driver’s seat settings, a cooled front row, a wireless charger, and our favorite feature – a power sunroof. There are no upgrades of the infotainment system that comes with a 9.8-inch screen and 12-speaker audio. But, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD Premium+ adds a 14-inch touchscreen, genuine leather, a heated steering wheel, and smog-sensing automatic climate control.
The Luxury version is the most expensive one thanks to the large wheels it brings, the premium interior with upscale leather, and all the additional options included. Still, the hands-free liftgate and panoramic sunroof remain optional upgrades, even for this version.
Competition
Interesting, the RX is still not using a plug-in hybrid system. We hope that engineers are preparing something special, although the one you can find on the NX seems pretty impressive. It delivers more power and keeps excellent fuel economy numbers. But, we see it on small crossovers and the luxury SUV would need something bigger. And there is the RX500+ as the optional system.
Anyway, there is no other SUV that can do 36 mpg. Well, Toyota Highlander is a mechanical twin and the non-luxury version of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD. Aviator is a hybrid SUV, but it still deploys a V6 engine. Volvo XC90 is updated and all its configurations are now hybrids. The B5 matches the power outputs and the highway gas mileage of the Lexus RX350h. But, in the city, it only does 22 mpg. B6 and B8 consume a lot more fuel. Cadillac will go straight with the EV model called Lyriq.
2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD Price
You can buy a hybrid version of the most popular luxury SUV for $51,000. So, with affordable price, plus superb mileage – the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD is the best budget-friendly SUV in the market. Even the options are not too expensive. Premium adds $2,000 and Premium Plus is another $2k investment. Luxury is around $60,000. The RX500h+ is available at this level.