MODEL
Lexus RX 450h+
NHTSA safety across every Lexus RX 450h+ model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Lexus RX 450h+ we cover (2025 to 2026), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. 2 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Lexus RX 450h is a luxury midsize SUV hybrid that slots into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed at premium buyers who want refinement, fuel efficiency, and a reputation for quality, the RX 450h has long been a flagship of Lexus's lineup. It competes with the likes of the BMW X5 and Audi Q5, but carves its own identity through a notably smooth hybrid powertrain and a comfort-first driving philosophy.
Across the 2020 to 2025 model years, the Lexus RX 450h presents a genuinely reassuring safety picture, though not without some nuance worth unpacking. The model's best NHTSA Safety Index score reaches 91 out of 100 in the 2022 model year, earning an Exceptional band rating - that is a strong result by any measure. Crash-test performance shows a consistent pattern: a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the side-impact test is excellent and reflects meaningful structural integrity in the most survivable crash scenario. The 4 out of 5 frontal and rollover ratings are solid, though shoppers should note they fall just short of the top mark. The frontal result in particular is worth watching, as frontal crashes represent the most common serious collision type on US roads. Perhaps the most striking data point across these six model years is the recall count: zero. That is genuinely rare for any nameplate covering this span, and it speaks well to Lexus's manufacturing discipline. Owner complaints total 117 across all covered years, with 16 alleged crash-related incidents and 13 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but 117 complaints across a six-year window for a popular luxury SUV is a relatively modest figure. No fire incidents and no reported deaths add further reassurance. Overall, the RX 450h earns its reputation as one of the safer choices in the luxury SUV segment.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Lexus RX 450h as a polished, well-rounded luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort and refinement over outright driving excitement. The hybrid powertrain earns consistent praise for its smoothness and efficiency. Most reviewers consider it a benchmark in its segment for cabin quality and ease of ownership, though some note that the driving dynamics lean toward the relaxed side.
- The RX 450h earned a best NHTSA Safety Index score of 91 out of 100 in the 2022 model year, placing it in the Exceptional band - one of the stronger results in the luxury SUV segment.
- Side-impact crash protection is rated a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, while frontal and rollover protection each come in at 4 out of 5 stars - solid scores, but shoppers focused on frontal-crash performance should review individual model year results before buying.
- Zero recalls across the entire 2020 to 2025 model year range is a standout statistic and is unusually rare for a nameplate with this many covered years. It suggests a high level of manufacturing consistency.
- Owner complaints across all covered years total 117, including 16 alleged crash incidents and 13 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the relatively low complaint volume and the absence of any reported fire incidents or fatalities are both reassuring signals for prospective buyers.
Most-recalled year on record: 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ with 2 recalls.