Let's dive deep into the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, as reviewed by Car and Driver. This hybrid SUV has been making waves, and we're here to break down what makes it stand out, covering everything from performance and fuel efficiency to its interior comfort and technology. Whether you're a long-time Lexus enthusiast or just curious about the hybrid SUV market, this comprehensive review will give you all the insights you need.

Overview of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h

The 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a hybrid SUV that combines luxury, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. It's part of the Lexus RX lineup, known for its reliability and comfort. This hybrid variant enhances the RX's appeal by offering impressive gas mileage without compromising on the premium experience that Lexus is known for. Car and Driver's review highlights several key aspects of the RX 350h, including its smooth ride, well-appointed interior, and user-friendly technology. The RX 350h is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 246 horsepower. This setup provides ample power for daily driving while achieving excellent fuel economy. The exterior design of the RX 350h is sleek and modern, with the signature Lexus spindle grille and sharp lines that give it a sophisticated look. Inside, the cabin is spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, making long drives a pleasure. The RX 350h also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. Overall, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a well-rounded hybrid SUV that offers a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and technology.

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to performance, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h offers a smooth and refined driving experience. Car and Driver note that the hybrid powertrain delivers adequate power for most driving situations, although it's not the quickest SUV in its class. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor combine to produce 246 horsepower, which is sufficient for daily commutes and highway cruising. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) ensures seamless gear changes, contributing to the overall smoothness of the ride. One of the standout features of the RX 350h is its fuel efficiency. The hybrid system allows the SUV to achieve impressive gas mileage, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious drivers. According to Car and Driver, the RX 350h can achieve up to 36 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is significantly better than many of its non-hybrid competitors. In terms of handling, the RX 350h offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and stable driving experience. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While the RX 350h is not designed for sporty driving, it offers a confident and predictable feel on the road. The brakes are also well-tuned, providing smooth and consistent stopping power. Overall, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h delivers a refined and efficient driving experience that is well-suited for daily commuting and long-distance travel. Its combination of smooth power delivery, excellent fuel economy, and comfortable ride make it a standout in the hybrid SUV segment.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, you'll find a cabin that's designed for comfort and convenience. Car and Driver praise the RX 350h for its high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and user-friendly technology. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with soft-touch surfaces and elegant trim. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, ensuring a comfortable driving position for drivers of all sizes. The rear seats are also spacious, providing ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The RX 350h comes standard with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, allowing you to control various functions of the vehicle, such as navigation, audio, and climate control. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps and features. The premium sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, enhancing the overall driving experience. In terms of storage space, the RX 350h offers a generous amount of cargo room behind the rear seats, making it ideal for carrying groceries, luggage, or other gear. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more space, allowing you to transport larger items. Overall, the interior of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a comfortable and luxurious space that's packed with technology and convenience features. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the RX 350h provides a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency and Hybrid System

One of the key selling points of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is its exceptional fuel efficiency, thanks to its advanced hybrid system. Car and Driver highlight the RX 350h's impressive gas mileage, making it an attractive option for drivers looking to save money on fuel and reduce their carbon footprint. The hybrid system combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 246 horsepower. The electric motor assists the engine during acceleration and can also power the vehicle on its own at low speeds, reducing fuel consumption. The RX 350h also features regenerative braking, which captures energy during braking and uses it to recharge the battery. This further enhances fuel efficiency and reduces wear on the brakes. According to Car and Driver, the RX 350h can achieve up to 36 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is significantly better than many of its non-hybrid competitors. This impressive fuel economy makes the RX 350h an excellent choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. In addition to its fuel efficiency, the hybrid system also provides a smooth and quiet driving experience. The electric motor delivers instant torque, providing quick acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. The RX 350h also operates in electric-only mode at low speeds, further reducing noise and emissions. Overall, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h's hybrid system is a sophisticated and efficient piece of technology that delivers exceptional fuel economy and a refined driving experience. Its ability to achieve up to 36 mpg in combined driving makes it a standout in the hybrid SUV segment.

Pricing and Value

When considering the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, pricing and value are important factors to keep in mind. Car and Driver provide insights into the RX 350h's price range and how it compares to other hybrid SUVs in its class. The RX 350h is positioned as a premium hybrid SUV, and its price reflects its luxurious features, advanced technology, and excellent fuel efficiency. The base price of the RX 350h is competitive with other hybrid SUVs in the market, but it can increase significantly with added options and packages. However, the RX 350h offers a strong value proposition due to its combination of luxury, efficiency, and reliability. One of the key factors that contribute to the RX 350h's value is its excellent fuel economy. With its ability to achieve up to 36 mpg in combined driving, the RX 350h can save drivers a significant amount of money on fuel over the long term. This makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. In addition to its fuel economy, the RX 350h also offers a range of standard features and advanced technology that enhance its value. These include a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced safety features. The RX 350h also comes with Lexus' reputation for reliability and dependability, which can provide peace of mind for owners. Overall, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a luxurious, efficient, and reliable hybrid SUV. Its combination of premium features, advanced technology, and excellent fuel economy make it a standout in its class.

Final Verdict from Car and Driver

Car and Driver's final verdict on the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is overwhelmingly positive. They commend its blend of luxury, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology, making it a top choice in the hybrid SUV segment. The RX 350h stands out for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and user-friendly technology. While it may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, it excels in providing a refined and efficient driving experience. The reviewers at Car and Driver appreciate the RX 350h's impressive gas mileage, which can save drivers a significant amount of money on fuel over the long term. They also praise the interior for its high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and spacious layout. The RX 350h's advanced technology features, such as the large touchscreen display and smartphone integration, are also well-received. One of the few drawbacks mentioned by Car and Driver is the RX 350h's acceleration, which is not as quick as some of its competitors. However, they note that the hybrid powertrain provides adequate power for most driving situations. Overall, Car and Driver conclude that the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a well-rounded and highly desirable hybrid SUV. Its combination of luxury, efficiency, and technology make it a standout in its class, and it's a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and fuel-efficient vehicle. If you're in the market for a hybrid SUV, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h should definitely be on your list.