For 2010,
Lexus has redesigned its RX Hybrid crossover and changed its moniker from 400h to 450h, marking the SUV's second generation. The new model doesn't represent a radical change. Instead, Lexus has refined one of its best-selling vehicles by adding a few needed elements to keep it fresh and modern.
Visually similar to the RX 350, the 450h has a few of its own unique styling features, including an exclusive grille, hybrid badging including blue-trimmed Lexus logos, unique front bumper, special 19-inch wheels, blue-tinted headlamps and taillamps, and optional LED headlamps.
The exterior styling of the Lexus RX 450h is familiar for a reason—it works, and Lexus doesn't want to mess with the unbridled success of the RX lineup.
The
interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is another story, however, and it features a significant styling makeover. Road & Track calls the new look the "'dual-zone' cockpit design," which features "a display zone centered around the dash-mounted 8-in. navigation display, while the operation zone, closer to the driver, includes a remote touch-navigation controller and steering wheel-mounted multi-information switch."The interior of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h wins praise for its user-friendly layout, while the refreshed exterior maintains a conservative appeal.
The
all-new 2010 Lexus RX 450h hybrid will start at $41,660 for the front-wheel drive version and $43,250 for all-wheel drive, plus $875 for destination charges. This is a slight decrease in the price from the previous RX400h, which started at $42,080 and $43,480 for FWD and AWD, respectively.
The new RX hybrid will have an updated hybrid system with a 3.5-liter, V6 Atkinson-cycle engine producing 295 hp, which is 27 hp more than the outgoing version. Fuel economy is improved over its predecessor with Toyota claiming a 16-20 percent increase. EPA estimates are 32 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined for the FWD version and 30/28/29 for the AWD.

Base Price
$41,660

Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive

Curb Weight (lbs)
4520

City (MPG)
32 (Est)

Hwy (MPG)
28 (Est)

Horsepower
245 @ 6000/167 @ - TBD -

Torque (lb-ft)
234 @ 4800/- TBD -

Wheelbase (in.)
107.9

Length (in.)
187.8

Width (in.)
74.2

Height (in.)