Lexus RX SUV (2016-2022) - MPG, running costs & CO2
The hybrid Lexus RX 450h makes a strong case for itself as a company car
There’s now just one version of the Lexus RX and RX L: the 450h hybrid. Being a big, heavy SUV, fuel economy isn’t mind-blowing, although the 450h returns better figures than some rivals. However, its CO2 emissions aren't low enough to qualify for the company-car tax bands likely to appeal to business drivers.
Lexus RX MPG & CO2
Despite a large 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine in the hybrid RX 450h model, it has better fuel economy than you might expect, returning up to 35.7mpg, regardless of trim level. Choose the heavier RX L, and this figure falls slightly to 34.4mpg. We found in excess of 40mpg fairly easy to hit around town, dropping closer to the official figures on the motorway. That's still enough to beat many seven-seat diesel SUVs, though.
Thanks to all RX models now being hybrid, they qualify for discounted VED (tax). With a starting price in excess of £40,000 you will, however, have to pay a surcharge in years two to six.
There was a time when company-car buyers snapped up the Lexus RX but climbing CO2 emissions and stricter BiK bands mean this is no longer the case. Figures from 179-180g/km for the RX and 185-186g/km for the RX L place it in the top 37% bracket for tax liability. The plug-in hybrid Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 boasts a CO2 figure of just 63g/km, thanks to its ability to run as an electric car for up to 30 miles.
Insurance groups
The latest Lexus 450h occupies insurance groups 41-42 out of 50. It's quite an expensive car to insure, then, but this reflects its power, the desirability of the Lexus badge and the high level of equipment on board.
Servicing
Lexus is a luxury brand and with that comes servicing prices to match. Expect a minor service to cost around £300 and a major service around £500. Parts could cost more than they would from the average manufacturer, but at least Lexus dealers are consistently voted the best in the UK.
Warranty
Lexus is part of Toyota, but while the latter offers a five-year/100,000-mile warranty on its cars, the luxury brand's vehicles are limited to a three-year/60,000-mile warranty. The hybrid components of the 450h are covered for five years or 100,000 miles, though.
