What is the fuel consumption of the rx450?
The RX450h, Lexus’ hybrid variant of the RX SUV, historically posted about 30 miles per gallon combined in EPA estimates. The RX450h name is no longer used on current Lexus models; today the lineup includes the RX 350h and RX 500h, which carry different efficiency figures. For exact numbers, check the EPA ratings for the specific model year and drivetrain you’re considering.
What is the RX450h and how its efficiency was measured
Brief history
The RX450h was produced roughly from 2009 through 2015. It paired a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine with an electric motor and battery pack, operating in a hybrid system designed to maximize efficiency for a midsize SUV. Fuel economy varied by year, drivetrain (front-wheel vs. all-wheel drive), and wheel/tires.
General fuel-economy pattern
Across its run, the RX450h’s EPA combined ratings hovered around 29–30 mpg, with city ratings typically near 30 mpg and highway figures in the high 20s to low 30s. All-wheel-drive versions tended to be on the lower end of highway numbers due to extra weight and drivetrain losses.
Before listing specific numbers, a note: these values are EPA estimates and real-world results differ with driving style, climate control use, geography, and maintenance.
- 2009–2010: EPA combined near 30 mpg, with city around the low-to-mid 30s and highway around the high 20s to 30 mpg.
- 2011–2012: Similar combined rating, with small variations depending on model year and wheel/tire setup.
- 2013–2015: Combined ratings typically around 29–30 mpg, with AWD versions sometimes showing slightly lower highway figures.
Real-world results often fall short of EPA estimates, particularly during short trips, aggressive acceleration, or extreme climate conditions. Gentle driving and steady speeds can bring results closer to the higher end of the practical range.
Current Lexus lineup context and how to verify exact numbers
Note on model naming and current options
As of 2024–2025, Lexus no longer uses the RX450h name. The hybrid variants in the RX family are the RX 350h and RX 500h in many markets, with different fuel-economy figures. If your goal is to compare modern RX efficiency, check the specific model year and drivetrain (FWD or AWD) on fueleconomy.gov or Lexus’ official product pages.
To get precise numbers for a particular year, you should consult official EPA fuel-economy data and the vehicle’s brochure or Lexus’ spec sheets. Real-world consumption can be influenced by wheel size, tires, climate-control use, and maintenance.
- Check fueleconomy.gov for EPA ratings by year and drivetrain.
- Compare Lexus’ official specifications for the exact model you’re considering.
In short, the RX450h’s legacy is one of efficiency for its class, but the name is not in current use; consumers now look to RX 350h and RX 500h for hybrid options with updated technology and efficiency figures.
Summary
Summary: The RX450h typically delivered around 30 mpg combined in EPA estimates during its production years, with some year-to-year variation. The RX450h is not part of the current Lexus lineup; for up-to-date fuel economy, review the EPA ratings for the exact year and configuration of the RX you’re considering, or compare against the modern RX 350h and RX 500h.
