Lexus has added a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant to its RX luxury-SUV lineup - a first for the model, which has previously been available only as a petrol-electric hybrid (HEV).
The RX 450+ PHEV is available only in Limited specification for $144,900, a $7500 premium over the RX 350h Limited HEV.
The PHEV powertrain brings total system output of 227kW (up 43kW from the HEV) and an electric range of 85km. In addition to the new drivetrain, the RX 450h+ Limited features a panoramic roof with an outer-slide front sunroof and interior roller share. It has front radiant heaters and humidity sensor.
Lexus has also added a second PHEV variant to the smaller NX range.
The new NX 450+ Limited ($116,600) joins the NX 450+ F Sport ($115,000) and is specified with a more luxurious vibe; it's different rather than further up the range, given the price difference between the two is only $1600.
Upgrades across the RX lineup
As well as the PHEV addition, all RX models are getting improvements for 2025.
A special edition Lexus RX 500h Black Line will arrive this year in limited numbers: just 15 units for NZ,. The package is offered exclusively on the RX 500h F Sport Performance for an extra $5400 ($155,500) and features black exterior appearance parts, orange brake callipers and 21-inch split-five-spoke wheels with a black metallic finish.
Graphite Black, Sonic Iridium and White Nova are the three exterior colour options, all with black exterior styling touches. Redesigned front and rear lower spoilers and side skirts are fitted. The lower body area is painted glossy Piano Black.
Inside, there's black leather and Ultrasuede accented and Dark Aluminium ornamentation. The Black Line also has front door courtesy lights that project the F Sport logo and illuminated F Sport front scuff plates.
On Premium and Limited RX models, the combination meter has been updated from 7-inch colour TFT to a 12.3-inch fully digital multi-information display. Wireless Android Auto is now standard.
The brightness of the multi-colour interior illumination has been increased (about three times brighter). Illumination has been added to the front tray located in front of the centre console. Noise reduction has been added to the rear side glass on all variants.
The combined fuel consumption for the RX 350h variants has been reduced from 6.0 to 5.4l/100km, with CO₂ has been reduced from 137 to 123g/km.
Total Lexus sales in 2024 were 88% electrified – HEV, PHEV and pure-electric (BEV).