- Take a look at the 2012 Lexus RX Hybrid
- The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid is cheaper (and just as reliable)
- The 2010 Lexus RX Hybrid is another solid choice
- Newer Lexus RX Hybrids are slightly less appealing
The Lexus RX Hybrid is back for 2023 with a fresh grille and two new powertrain options. The all-new Sport Performance model is the most powerful, boasting 366 hp and the automaker’s patented dynamic rear steering. Each RX Hybrid also has standard all-wheel drive and promises fuel economy as high as 36 mpg combined city/highway.
While the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid isn’t too pricey by luxury standards, used models are at least $20,000 cheaper. Additionally, older RX Hybrids (even from decades past) have proven to be very reliable. U.S. News says that the following model years are well worth their low asking prices.
2012 Lexus RX | SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Take a look at the 2012 Lexus RX Hybrid
U.S. News reports that this RX Hybrid is one of the best used hybrid cars, beaten only by the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. On average, you can get a 2012 RX Hybrid for as low as $17,868. The base model comes with a V6 and two electric motors, while the all-wheel drive versions have three electric motors.
In total, the 2012 Lexus RX Hybrid can make between 245-295 hp depending on the drivetrain. It also benefits from a smooth ride and good fuel economy numbers, up to 32/28 mpg city/highway. This RX Hybrid features over 80 cubic ft of cargo area and spacious accommodations for all five passengers.
It also had some pretty innovative options at the time, including a rear-seat infotainment system and a navigation system with real-time traffic updates. The 2012 RX Hybrid has a perfect reliability rating from J.D. Power and has yet to be included in any recalls.
The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid is cheaper (and just as reliable)
The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid costs between $14,579-$15,214 and has the same reliability score as the 2012 model. It also doesn’t have any active recalls and got impressive scores in every tested IIHS safety score category. It got a near-perfect overall score from the NHTSA, with the best rating possible in the side-crash test.
The 2011 RX Hybrid has the same powertrain, standard features, and available options as the 2012 model. Part of the reason why second-gen RX Hybrids are so affordable is that they only come in one trim. Those closer to $15,000 and above probably have more of the RX Hybrid’s many available package upgrades.
The 2010 Lexus RX Hybrid is another solid choice
The 2010 Lexus RX Hybrid was the only one of this trio available with a Sport package. That bundle included a track-tuned suspension and 19-in wheels to replace the standard 18-in ones. Otherwise, its powertrain specs and most of its standard features aren’t much different from the other two model years.
The 2010 model is currently the cheapest on the used market, typically selling for up to $13,513. Like the 2011 and 2012 models, it has a perfect dependability score and you won’t find its name on any recall lists.
Newer Lexus RX Hybrids are slightly less appealing
Your carbon footprint just decreased with the 2015 @Lexus RX Hybrid. #CarOfTheDay http://t.co/C2wC8o1gAG #lexus pic.twitter.com/syIXcYJu3T
— CARFAXinc (@CARFAXinc) October 18, 2015 Related
Further down the list of best hybrids, U.S. News also included the 2015 Lexus RX Hybrid. While it’s just as dependable as the others from this generation, it has a lower score thanks to a complicated infotainment interface. Because of the new standard tech in this model, it also demands a much higher asking price compared to older RX Hybrids.
U.S. News also recommends the Lexus RX Hybrids from 2014 and 2013. The latter is predictably less expensive, but it attracted some criticism for its finicky navigation system. None of these Lexus RX Hybrids are particularly sporty to drive, but they definitely redeem themselves in terms of reliability and ride comfort.
Keyword: The 3 Most Reliable Used Lexus RX Hybrid Years Under $30,000 in 2023