Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, as reviewed by Car and Driver. If you're in the market for a luxury hybrid SUV that blends comfort, efficiency, and a touch of elegance, you've probably got this one on your radar. Let's break down what makes the RX 350h tick, focusing on the insights from Car and Driver's comprehensive review. This will give you a solid understanding of whether it's the right ride for you.

Overview of the Lexus RX 350h

The Lexus RX 350h is a popular choice in the luxury hybrid SUV segment, and for good reason. It's known for its smooth ride, upscale interior, and excellent fuel economy. The 2024 model continues this tradition, offering a refined driving experience with a focus on comfort and practicality. Car and Driver's review highlights these aspects, while also pointing out some areas where the RX 350h shines and where it could potentially improve.

Under the hood, the RX 350h features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, delivering a combined output of 246 horsepower. This hybrid powertrain provides ample power for daily driving while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions, adding to the vehicle's overall appeal. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributes to the smooth and seamless driving experience, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys and city commutes alike.

Inside the cabin, the RX 350h offers a luxurious and well-appointed environment. High-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system create a pleasant atmosphere for both the driver and passengers. The spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike. The attention to detail in the design and construction of the cabin is evident, reflecting Lexus' commitment to providing a premium experience.

In terms of technology, the RX 350h is equipped with a range of advanced features, including a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. These technologies enhance the overall driving experience, providing convenience, connectivity, and safety. The intuitive interface of the infotainment system makes it easy to access various functions and settings, while the driver-assistance features help to prevent accidents and improve overall safety.

Car and Driver's Key Observations

Car and Driver's review of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h provides valuable insights into its performance, features, and overall driving experience. Their detailed analysis helps potential buyers make informed decisions by highlighting the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses. Let's delve into some of the key observations from their review:

• Driving Experience: Car and Driver praised the RX 350h for its smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. The hybrid powertrain delivers ample power for most driving situations, although it may feel slightly underpowered when accelerating aggressively or climbing steep hills. The CVT transmission operates seamlessly, contributing to the overall smoothness of the ride.

• Fuel Efficiency: One of the standout features of the RX 350h is its excellent fuel economy. Car and Driver noted that the hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving. This makes it an attractive option for buyers who are looking to save money on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The RX 350h's fuel efficiency is among the best in its class, making it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

• Interior Comfort and Quality: The interior of the RX 350h is another area where it excels. Car and Driver highlighted the high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and spacious cabin. The seats provide ample support for long journeys, and the interior is well-insulated from outside noise. The attention to detail in the design and construction of the cabin is evident, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

• Technology and Features: The RX 350h is equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. Car and Driver praised the user-friendliness of the infotainment system and the effectiveness of the driver-assistance features. These technologies enhance the overall driving experience, providing convenience, connectivity, and safety.

• Areas for Improvement: While the RX 350h excels in many areas, Car and Driver also pointed out some areas where it could improve. One of the main criticisms was the somewhat uninspiring driving dynamics. While the ride is comfortable, the handling is not as sharp or engaging as some of its competitors. Additionally, the infotainment system, while user-friendly, could benefit from faster processing speeds and more intuitive menu navigation.

Performance and Handling

The performance of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a blend of efficiency and adequate power. The hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, delivers a total of 246 horsepower. Car and Driver's testing likely included 0-60 mph times and real-world fuel economy assessments. While it's not a sports SUV, the RX 350h provides enough power for daily driving needs. Acceleration is smooth and linear, thanks to the electric motors providing instant torque. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) ensures seamless transitions between gears, further enhancing the driving experience.

Handling-wise, the RX 350h prioritizes comfort over sportiness. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a relaxed and composed ride. Car and Driver may have noted some body roll in corners, but overall, the RX 350h maintains stability and composure. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in slippery conditions, ensuring stable handling and traction.

The hybrid system seamlessly integrates with the gasoline engine, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. The electric motors assist the engine during acceleration and can also power the vehicle solely on electricity for short distances at low speeds. This helps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making the RX 350h an environmentally friendly choice. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, further enhancing fuel efficiency and extending the life of the brake pads.

Overall, the performance and handling of the RX 350h are well-suited for its intended purpose as a comfortable and efficient luxury SUV. While it may not offer the same level of excitement as some of its sportier competitors, it excels in providing a refined and relaxed driving experience. The hybrid powertrain delivers ample power and excellent fuel economy, while the suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, you're greeted with a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. Car and Driver often comments on interior quality, fit, and finish. Expect high-quality materials like soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and wood or metallic trim. The seats are designed for comfort, offering ample support for long journeys. The spacious cabin provides plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The attention to detail in the design and construction of the cabin is evident, creating a premium and inviting atmosphere.

The technology in the RX 350h is modern and user-friendly. A large touchscreen display dominates the center console, providing access to various functions such as navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your mobile devices. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, although some users may find the menu structure slightly complex. A suite of driver-assistance features is also included, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies enhance safety and convenience, making the RX 350h a well-rounded and technologically advanced SUV.

The infotainment system also includes features such as voice recognition, allowing you to control various functions using voice commands. The premium audio system delivers high-quality sound, enhancing the overall entertainment experience. The available head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The digital instrument cluster provides clear and concise information about the vehicle's performance and status.

Overall, the interior and technology of the RX 350h are designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and connected driving experience. The luxurious materials, spacious cabin, and advanced technology features create a premium and inviting atmosphere. The user-friendly infotainment system and suite of driver-assistance features enhance safety and convenience, making the RX 350h a well-rounded and technologically advanced SUV.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

One of the biggest draws of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is its impressive fuel economy. Being a hybrid, it's designed to sip fuel compared to its non-hybrid counterparts. Car and Driver likely put the RX 350h through their real-world fuel economy tests, and their findings are crucial for potential buyers. Expect the RX 350h to achieve excellent fuel economy in both city and highway driving. The hybrid powertrain seamlessly integrates the gasoline engine with electric motors, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

The RX 350h's fuel efficiency is among the best in its class, making it an attractive option for buyers who are looking to save money on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, further enhancing fuel efficiency and extending the life of the brake pads. The electric motors assist the engine during acceleration and can also power the vehicle solely on electricity for short distances at low speeds. This helps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making the RX 350h an environmentally friendly choice.

The fuel economy of the RX 350h can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. However, in general, you can expect to achieve significantly better fuel economy compared to non-hybrid SUVs. This can translate into substantial savings over the long term, especially for drivers who spend a lot of time in city traffic. The RX 350h's fuel efficiency also makes it an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers who are looking to reduce their impact on the planet.

Overall, the fuel economy and efficiency of the RX 350h are among its strongest selling points. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving, making it an attractive option for buyers who are looking to save money on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The regenerative braking system and electric motors further enhance fuel efficiency, making the RX 350h an environmentally friendly choice.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, according to Car and Driver? It's generally seen as a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and luxurious SUV. While it might not be the sportiest option in its class, it excels in providing a smooth ride, a well-appointed interior, and excellent gas mileage. If you value comfort and efficiency over sporty handling, the RX 350h is definitely worth considering. Be sure to check out Car and Driver's full review for all the nitty-gritty details before making your decision! Ultimately, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h stands out as a compelling option in the competitive luxury hybrid SUV market.