Lexus RX 450h Advance now better value

The Lexus RX 450h Advance now includes a premium Mark Levinson surround sound stereo as standard – without costing a penny more than before. The stereo boasts an impressive 15-speakers, which Lexus claims “support an exceptionally wide frequency range to give precise reproduction of vocals and instrumentals.”

All this means the hybrid SUV keeps the old car’s £48,495 price tag, but adds the brilliant Lexus-bespoke sound system for free. There's a set of new 19-inch alloy wheels, but as before, all Advance models come with Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation and rear view camera. The latter will prove particularly useful, given the RX’s bulky dimensions and compromised rear visibility.

The RX 450h Advance builds on the already well-equipped Luxury trim, adding a sporty front bumper and integrated fog lights, as well as adaptive LED headlamps that follow the curves of the road for better visibility. Dual-zone climate control, leather seats, front and rear parking sensors and automatic windscreen wipers are also included.

Being a hybrid, the Lexus RX 450h gets a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine mated to a powerful electric motor. That means it can offer diesel-rivalling fuel economy of 44.8mpg, but with the smooth and quiet driving characteristics of a petrol engine.

• Are you considering a hybrid car? Check out our advice to see if it’s right for you.

The new Lexus RX 450h is on sale now, and comes with a choice of five paint options. These include a pair of blacks, as well as a white, grey and silver. These can be complimented with an ivory, grey, black or tan-coloured leather interior and optional Wood Pack.

For more information on the current Lexus range, including a video review of the RX 450h, visit the Carbuyer Lexus reviews page.