Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, shall we? Car and Driver has given us the lowdown, and it's time to break it all down in a way that's easy to digest. We're going to explore everything from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort and tech features. Buckle up; it's going to be a comprehensive ride!

Overview of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h

The 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a hybrid SUV that blends luxury, efficiency, and Lexus's renowned reliability. It's part of the RX lineup, which has been a top seller for Lexus for years. This hybrid variant aims to provide a more fuel-efficient option without compromising the premium experience that RX owners expect. According to Car and Driver, the RX 350h stands out for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and impressive fuel economy, making it a compelling choice in the competitive luxury hybrid SUV market. The RX 350h is designed for those who want a vehicle that’s both environmentally conscious and luxurious. It combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver a combined output that’s both powerful and efficient. This hybrid system not only enhances fuel economy but also provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, perfect for city commuting and long road trips alike. The vehicle's exterior design is modern and sleek, featuring Lexus's signature spindle grille and sharp lines that give it a distinctive and sophisticated look. Inside, the RX 350h offers a well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and advanced technology, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience. Safety is also a top priority, with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. With its blend of luxury, efficiency, and advanced technology, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a standout choice in the hybrid SUV segment, offering a compelling package for discerning drivers. Car and Driver's review highlights these strengths, reinforcing the RX 350h's position as a leader in its class.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h doesn't disappoint. Car and Driver notes its responsive acceleration and smooth power delivery, thanks to its hybrid powertrain. The combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor provides ample torque, making it feel confident in various driving situations. The RX 350h isn't a sports car, but it offers a composed and comfortable ride. The suspension soaks up bumps effectively, providing a smooth experience even on less-than-perfect roads. Handling is predictable, and the steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it's not designed for aggressive cornering, the RX 350h feels stable and planted, inspiring confidence behind the wheel. One of the key advantages of the hybrid system is its ability to provide instant torque from the electric motor, which enhances the vehicle's responsiveness at lower speeds. This makes it particularly well-suited for city driving, where quick acceleration is often needed to merge into traffic or navigate crowded streets. On the highway, the RX 350h delivers smooth and effortless cruising, with plenty of power in reserve for passing and merging. The hybrid system also contributes to a quieter driving experience, as the electric motor can operate independently at lower speeds, reducing engine noise and vibration. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2024 Lexus RX 350h strike a good balance between comfort, efficiency, and responsiveness, making it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle to drive in a variety of conditions. Car and Driver's assessment aligns with this, emphasizing the vehicle's smooth ride and predictable handling as key strengths. The RX 350h is designed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience, and it delivers on that promise with its well-tuned suspension and responsive hybrid powertrain.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel economy is where the 2024 Lexus RX 350h truly shines. Car and Driver reports impressive MPG figures, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain seamlessly blends electric and gasoline power, optimizing fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. In real-world driving, the RX 350h delivers excellent fuel economy, whether you're commuting in the city or cruising on the highway. The hybrid system automatically switches between electric and gasoline power, depending on driving conditions, maximizing efficiency at all times. This not only saves you money at the pump but also reduces your carbon footprint, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. The RX 350h's fuel efficiency is particularly noteworthy given its size and luxury features. It offers the space and comfort of a mid-size SUV without the hefty fuel bills typically associated with such vehicles. This makes it an attractive option for families and individuals who want to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on practicality or luxury. The hybrid system is also designed to be seamless and unobtrusive, so you won't notice any jarring transitions between electric and gasoline power. The RX 350h simply delivers smooth, efficient performance in all driving conditions. Car and Driver's testing confirms the RX 350h's exceptional fuel economy, highlighting its ability to achieve impressive MPG figures in both city and highway driving. This makes it a standout choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing luxury or performance. The RX 350h's hybrid powertrain is a testament to Lexus's commitment to innovation and sustainability, offering a compelling blend of efficiency and performance.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2024 Lexus RX 350h, you're greeted with a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. Car and Driver praises the high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and intuitive layout. The interior design is modern and elegant, with a focus on creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, ensuring a comfortable driving position for drivers of all sizes. Rear-seat passengers also enjoy ample legroom and headroom, making it a great choice for families. The RX 350h comes standard with a host of features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a premium sound system. Higher trim levels add even more luxury, such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive controls. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The premium sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, enhancing the overall driving experience. In addition to comfort and technology, the RX 350h also offers plenty of practicality. The cargo area is spacious and versatile, with a power liftgate for easy access. There are also plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, providing ample space for your belongings. Car and Driver's review highlights the RX 350h's exceptional interior comfort and features, praising its high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and user-friendly technology. The RX 350h is designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing driving experience, and it delivers on that promise with its well-appointed cabin and thoughtful features. The interior is a standout aspect of the RX 350h, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize comfort and convenience.

Technology and Safety

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is packed with features. Car and Driver notes the comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, making it a safer and more enjoyable vehicle to drive. The RX 350h also comes standard with a blind-spot monitoring system, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, further enhancing safety. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. The lane-keeping assist system helps to keep you centered in your lane, providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift. The automatic emergency braking system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if you don't respond in time. In addition to these driver-assistance systems, the RX 350h also includes a host of other technology features, such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a premium sound system. The infotainment system is easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive controls. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The premium sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, enhancing the overall driving experience. Car and Driver's review highlights the RX 350h's impressive array of technology and safety features, praising its comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems and user-friendly technology. The RX 350h is designed to provide a safe and connected driving experience, and it delivers on that promise with its advanced technology and safety features. The combination of these features makes the RX 350h a standout choice for those who prioritize safety and technology.

Final Verdict from Car and Driver

So, what's the final verdict from Car and Driver on the 2024 Lexus RX 350h? They give it high marks for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. While it may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, it excels in providing a refined and efficient driving experience. If you're looking for a hybrid SUV that blends luxury, efficiency, and reliability, the RX 350h is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for the money. The RX 350h is a great choice for families, commuters, and anyone who wants a comfortable and efficient vehicle. It's also a good option for those who are looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing luxury or performance. Overall, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a top contender in the luxury hybrid SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of efficiency, comfort, and technology. Car and Driver's review reinforces this, highlighting the RX 350h's strengths and making it a recommended choice for discerning drivers. The RX 350h is a testament to Lexus's commitment to quality and innovation, delivering a vehicle that is both luxurious and environmentally conscious.