Fierce and Frugal: The 2016 Lexus RX 450h

The 2016 Lexus RX 450h.

This is the year that Lexus' styling evolution, emphasizing emotion and performance, makes its way to the venerable RX crossover line.  That includes the hybrid RX 450h, which now sports a look that suggests Darth Vader far more than Ed Begley, Jr.

The 2015 Lexus RX 450h: Frugality Redefined

2015 Lexus RX 450h.

If you're ever a contestant on the TV game show "Family Feud" and the category is "Why People Buy Hybrids", you can't go wrong with "to save gas".  That's pretty much everyone's number one answer. But outside of TV game shows, it begs the question:  How much will you save?

A surprising number of people out there believe all hybrids get 50 miles per gallon, like the Toyota Prius. Regular TireKicker readers know that's not true. There are vehicles that use hybrid technology to go from passable gas mileage with a regular powerplant to better-than-average.  The Lexus RX 450h is one of those.

How Much Is An Extra 12 MPG City Worth To You? The 2014 Lexus RX 450h

The 2014 Lexus RX 450h.

The basic Lexus RX crossover design has remained fairly constant for 16 years, but last year brought a freshening that gives all RX models the signature Lexus spindle grille, a new bumper and headlamp design, LED daytime running lights, updated tail lamps and four new colors (Silver Lining Metallic, Claret Mica, Deep Sea Mica and Fire Agate Pearl).