Fifth-Gen Lexus RX Gets New 450h+ PHEV Variant with 304 HP

In spite of making its global debut just about a year ago, the fifth-gen Lexus RX is due for an upgrade for the 2024 model year. This time around, the Japanese luxury marque has introduced a brand-new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant to its iconic SUV model, cordially known as the Lexus RX 450h+.

2024 Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid

This new RX PHEV shares the same partially-electrified powertrain as the NX PHEV which comprises of a 2.5-litre 4-cyl petrol mill that is mated to two electric motors juiced by a small lithium-ion battery pack. This combo delivers up to 304 HP – making it the second most powerful RX variant, capable of going from nought to 100 KM/H in about 6.2 seconds, en route to its electronically-limited V-max of 200 KM/H.

Said small battery pack is capable of powering the RX to 56 KM of pure EV range, while fully-charging them up via a 6.6 kW AC charging method will take about two and a half hours.

Visually, the RX 450h+ doesn’t look that much different compared to its non-PHEV twins. It gets the same front grille design which is flanked by sleek LED headlights with L-shaped DRL signature incorporated, while riding on sizable 21-inch alloy wheels with 20-spoke design. The only notable difference between the PHEV model and the rest is the addition of RX450h+ emblem at its tailgate, as well as the presence of the Type-2 charging port on the right side of its rear fender.

On board, the RX 450h+ gets a slew of modern and luxury amenities expected in any luxury SUVs. Key features include the four heated and ventilated seats with power adjustments, cabin ambient lighting system, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, as well as a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium hi-fi system.

The all-new Lexus RX 450h+ PHEV is slated to make its market entry in the US later this year, which will be tagged at $70,080 (RM321,456) – making it significantly more expensive than the RX 350h Luxury variant, which starts at $58,750 (RM269,486).

Recently-launched Lexus RX 350 Luxury

As for the Malaysian market, it is reported that this new PHEV variant MIGHT be entering into our market soon, following the recently-launched RX 350 Luxury variant which made its entry several months ago. As for pricing, we can expect them to be heftier than the RX 350’s on-the-road price tag of RM468,888. 

The all-electric Lexus RZ could also make its Malaysian debut soon...

Regardless, the Lexus RX 450h+ PHEV’s entry into our market could also be a good indication that the fully-electric Lexus RZ will also debut into our market soon, as Lexus Malaysia already opened the registration of interested (ROIs) for this EV SUV model earlier this year.