What is the difference between the RX 450h and the rx450hl?
The RX 450h is Lexus’s traditional five-seat hybrid SUV, while the RX 450hL is a longer-wheelbase version that adds a third row to seat seven. Both share the core hybrid powertrain, but they differ in seating, space, and packaging.
The distinction centers on seating capacity and interior layout. The L variant extends the body to accommodate a third row, offering seven-passenger seating at the cost of some cargo space and efficiency. Below is a detailed comparison, beginning with the standard five-seat RX 450h and then outlining the seven-seat RX 450hL.
RX 450h
The RX 450h is Lexus’s traditional five‑seat hybrid SUV, combining a gasoline V6 with electric motors to deliver a combined output of around 295 horsepower. It emphasizes luxury, efficiency, and a smooth drive in a compact footprint for a hybrid SUV.
Powertrain and performance
The vehicle uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with electric motors to produce roughly 295 hp combined. All-wheel drive is typically standard or readily available, and the system prioritizes quiet, refined operation and efficiency for daily driving.
Seating and cargo
Configured for five passengers, the RX 450h offers a spacious two-row interior with a versatile cargo area, especially when rear seats are folded. It does not offer a third-row option.
Availability and market context
Introduced as part of Lexus’s second-generation RX hybrid lineup, the RX 450h has been a staple option across many markets and model years, with updates to technology and trims over time.
RX 450hL
The RX 450hL is the longer-wheelbase variant designed to add a third row of seating, enabling seven-passenger capacity. The extra length changes interior layout, balance, and overall packaging, with trade-offs in cargo space and efficiency.
Powertrain and performance
The 450hL shares the same hybrid powertrain as the standard 450h—a 3.5-liter V6 paired with electric motors delivering about 295 hp combined. The longer, heavier body can result in slightly different driving dynamics and modest efficiency differences.
Seating and cargo
The hallmark feature is the optional or standard third-row seat for seven occupants. When the third row is in use, cargo space behind the row is reduced; folding the third row frees up space but generally remains less than the five-seat RX 450h in typical configurations.
Availability and market context
The RX 450hL was offered in the mid-2010s as a long‑wheelbase, seven‑seat variant in certain markets, including the United States. It had a more limited production run compared with the standard RX line and was eventually succeeded by later seven-seat configurations in the broader RX lineup.
Key differences in quick reference:
Before listing, note that both vehicles share the core hybrid powertrain, but the RX 450hL adds a third row and longer wheelbase, which impacts seating capacity, cargo flexibility, and efficiency.
- Seating capacity: RX 450h = 5 seats; RX 450hL = up to 7 seats.
- Wheelbase/body: RX 450h is shorter; RX 450hL is longer to accommodate the extra row.
- Interior flexibility: RX 450h prioritizes cargo space with two rows; RX 450hL prioritizes passenger capacity with three rows.
- Powertrain: Both use the same hybrid system (approx. 295 hp combined); differences are primarily due to weight and aerodynamics.
- Cargo space: RX 450h typically offers more cargo room behind the rear seats; RX 450hL’s third row reduces space when in use.
- Availability: RX 450h is a standard, widely available option; RX 450hL was a mid‑2010s model with a more limited market presence.
Conclusion: If you need a practical five-seat luxury hybrid with generous cargo space and a smooth ride, the RX 450h is usually the better fit. If seven-passenger seating is a priority and you can trade some cargo space and efficiency, the RX 450hL offers that extended interior capacity.
Summary
In short, the RX 450h and RX 450hL share the same hybrid backbone but serve different interior goals: the 450h is a five-seat, cargo-friendly hybrid, while the 450hL adds a third row for seven people, with a longer footprint and potentially less rear cargo versatility. Your choice hinges on how many passengers you need to carry versus how much cargo space you want to prioritize.
What is the Lexus RX 450hL?
OVERVIEW. The RX 450hL seats up to 7 people comfortably and pairs a V6 3.5-liter direct injection engine with a powerful, self-charging electric motor to deliver XXX horsepower with maximum fuel efficiency.
What is the difference between Lexus RX and RXL?
The Lexus RXL is very similar to the best-selling Lexus RX but it offers more space for additional passengers or cargo.
What is the difference between RX 450h and RX 450hL?
The 2022 Lexus RX 450h is available in base, F Sport and Black Line Special Edition trims. All three have a 308-horsepower hybrid powertrain based on a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and all-wheel drive is standard. An extended-length version called the RX 450hL has three rows of seats and is reviewed separately.
What are the common problems with the RX 450h?
Worn CV joints. Damaged motor or transmission mounts. Wheel alignment issues.
