2017 Lexus RX450h review, test drive

What's it like on the inside?

The very modern and futuristic interior comes as another pleasant surprise. The low slung dash allows for tremendous visibility and what adds to the extremely up-to-the-minute feel is the fact that the steeply raked windscreen stretches far ahead of the driver. Next up is the huge 12.3-inch screen; only slightly smaller than your flat-screen TV at home, the high-res display is controlled by a cross between a mouse and a mini joystick. Lexus calls it Remote Touch Interface (RTI) and, though it takes a bit of getting used to, it soon feels natural and easy, if a bit over sensitive.

The offset centre console also looks quite attractive. Very different from the norm, it is extremely wide and features a blend of styles, colours and materials that make it stand out. The buttons are pretty conventional, but the manner in which the black and red leather bits contrast each other is quite novel. And then there are metallic slashes and chrome highlights that really do add a touch of class to the cabin. The centre console, for example has chrome slash on only one side – neat. And scattered quite liberally around the cabin, on the steering wheel, gear lever and pedals are brushed aluminium bits, crafted to such a high level that you want to touch them and run your fingers along the surfaces. The cabin isn't as solidly put together as many of its German rivals, and the build feels lighter for sure, but when it comes to fit and finish, it's right up there with the best.

Also impressive are the big and very comfortable seats. Built to carry large American frames, the front seats are tall, wide and wonderfully supportive. The leather is of an extremely high grade, the range of seat adjustment is wide and the fact that they are cooled adds another dimension to comfort levels. Space and comfort are also very good in the rear. Passengers at the back also get cooled seats, legroom is more than sufficient, the seat is very supportive and you can recline the backrest via a button here as well. Headroom, however, is a bit tight in the rear, especially if you are a six-footer, but otherwise comfort levels here are extremely high. 

The RX also comes loaded with kit. The 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System features exquisitely machined aluminium knobs that feel like they've been lifted off a high-end audio system. You also get a heads up display (HUD), multiple driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport +, and there's a 360-degree camera as well. Also, to open the boot, all that the driver has to do, as long as the key is in his or her pocket, is touch the Lexus logo at the rear. And beneath the rear cargo area floor is a full-sized spare tire. You also get a massive panoramic sunroof and 10 airbags.