2024 Lexus RX 450h+ PHEV has electric range of 56 km

All-new Lexus RX now available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain with 450h+ version

When Lexus launched the all-new RX in the Philippines earlier this year, the brand only offered two electrified powertrain options.

The first is the RX 350h which has a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated inline-four assisted by an electric motor that delivers a total system output of 249 PS and 316 Nm of torque. The other engine (in the 500h F-Sport) gets a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor with a combined system output of 371 PS and 550 Nm of torque.

All good, but some Lexus owners today prefer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) which offers a pure electric driving experience to further cut carbon emissions and lessen fuel consumption. Well, it seems Lexus has heard its customers' pleas as the automaker has revealed the 2024 RX 450h+.

First making its debut in the US market, the new plug-in hybrid version of the crossover SUV gets the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine derived from the RX 350h model. However, this particular PHEV gets a helping from a pair of electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack. This gives the all-wheel drive crossover a total system output of 308 PS.

More importantly, the plug-in hybrid RX 450h+ has an all-electric range of around 56 kms which is more than enough to get you to your destination without needing to use a drop of fuel. But don't think this PHEV is a slouch as Lexus claims it can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds.

The PHEV also benefits from regenerative braking in order to top up the battery while on the go. But should the lithium-ion battery be fully drained, it can be recharged to full in just 2 and ½ hours via a 6.6 kW onboard charger when connected to a 240V outlet.

Aside from having an electrified heart, the RX 450h+ PHEV also gets several niceties to complement its plug-in hybrid powertrain. These include huge 21-inch alloy wheels in a dark metallic finish, 14-inch touchscreen infotainment, semi-aniline leather seats, a panoramic glass roof, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, a heads-up display, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, and ambient lighting.

With the RX 450h + PHEV now available across the Pacific, can we expect Lexus Philippines to bring the plug-in hybrid version of the all-new RX?