Lexus RX 350h | Image source: Yash Sunil
After spending a few days with the Lexus RX 350h, I couldn’t really understand why we don’t see more of it on our roads. What’s to stop those who can afford it from opting for something as complete as this? After all, the RX is one of those rare luxury cars that does everything right without shouting about it.
It also helps that it doesn’t look like anything else out there. While most competitors chase soft curves and familiar silhouettes, Lexus has taken a sharper, more angular path; The result is a crossover that packs a real punch without trying too hard. These sculpted lines and bold proportions make it instantly recognizable, even from a distance. Then there are the 21-inch wheels. On paper, it doesn’t inspire confidence on Indian roads, but behind the wheel, the RX surprises. Bad surfaces, broken tarmac, and poorly patched roads are taken in their stride, providing a far more convenient ride than you’d ever expect.
What is most impressive about the Japanese approach is their refusal to bow to peer pressure. It doesn’t force the car to be sporty, technology-laden, off-road capable and attractive all at once. Clarity of purpose is exactly what makes the RX special; Its focus is unapologetically on luxury. Having spent some time in other SUVs in this price class, I can say this with confidence – no other cabin feels quite as premium as Lexus’s. It’s not just the quality of the materials, although they are excellent anyway, but the way everything is put together. The dashboard’s layered layout, calm design and attention to detail all feel thoughtful. It’s also anchored by a massive 14-inch touchscreen, which is a huge step up from older systems, providing a clear, intuitive interface that feels modern.
The same clarity of thought applies to comfort features. It feels carefully and almost politely appointed, with comfort evenly distributed throughout the cabin. Every seat feels like the best seat in the car. While this generation is a five-seater with two rows of seating, the back seat is where the car really shines. It offers power reclining seats and a level of luxury that rivals long-wheelbase Europeans, making it a real alternative for those who prefer to drive. If someone took the driver’s seat before I got there, I wouldn’t be too upset.
One feature worth particularly mentioning is the 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, which redefines what in-car audio can be like. This isn’t the kind of setup you listen to casually while scrolling through tracks; It requires your attention. The clarity, depth and balance are exceptional, whether you’re sitting front or back. It’s the kind of system that makes traffic more bearable and long trips disappear. It fits perfectly with the RX’s calm and tolerant personality. Few luxury SUVs at this price point manage to get the sound right.
Driver focused
Under the hood is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with Lexus’ proven hybrid system. Although the numbers won’t get your pulse racing, the way the power is delivered is very satisfying. Throttle responses are smooth, linear and reassuring, with electric assist seamlessly filling in gaps. It’s a setup that always feels relaxed but never sluggish, making everyday driving feel effortless.
The only element that disrupts this cohesive experience a bit is the CVT transmission. It does its job unobtrusively most of the time, but when you start pushing harder, it reminds you that full driver engagement isn’t the RX’s primary mission. This is the only factor preventing it from being a true driver-focused SUV. In other areas, such as steering weight, accuracy and consistency, it actually works fairly well. However, if we look at it from another angle, this fits well with the car’s strengths, especially for owners who spend more time driving rather than driving the car themselves.
Spending time with the RX also makes you wonder about Lexus’ strange location in India. Unlike rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus still exists in a corner of the luxury market, rarely screaming for attention. However, after living with the RX 350h, it’s hard to understand why it remains an under-the-radar option, as it is with other Lexus vehicles as well.
Part of the answer may lie in how Lexus does business. There’s no badge bravado here and no attempt to overwhelm you with performance statistics or extraneous technology. Instead, what you get is a carefully thought-out luxury SUV that prioritizes long-term ownership satisfaction. Maintenance costs are relatively reasonable for this segment and reliability is almost a given; After all, this is Toyota DNA in action. What’s more, the powerful hybrid powertrain delivers fuel efficiency that its gasoline-only competitors can’t match.
It may not appeal to buyers chasing outright performance or bragging rights, but for those who value comfort, reliability and long-term peace of mind, the RX 350h makes a compelling case. Add to that its strong fuel efficiency, relatively reasonable ownership costs and a design that stands apart from the usual luxury SUV crowd, it’s hard to ignore how complete this package is, even at a price of Rs 89.99 lakh (ex-showroom). In a market obsessed with obvious choices, the Lexus RX 350h remains a great alternative that deserves far more attention than it currently receives.
© World of Cars
Posted on February 13, 2026
