MODEL
Lexus RX 450h+ Safety
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.
The Lexus RX 450h, across its 2020 to 2025 model years, earns an Exceptional Safety Index rating of 91 out of 100 for the 2022 model year, a strong showing. Crash-test performance reveals a consistent pattern. The vehicle achieves a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in side-impact tests, demonstrating robust structural integrity in a survivable crash scenario. Frontal and rollover ratings stand at 4 out of 5 stars. While solid, these results indicate areas where the RX 450h does not reach the highest possible mark, particularly in frontal protection, which is critical given the prevalence of such collisions. Perhaps the most notable safety metric for the RX 450h is its recall record: zero recalls across all six model years. This absence of federal safety recalls is uncommon over such a span and indicates consistent manufacturing quality. Owner complaints total 117 across these years, including 16 alleged crash-related incidents and 13 reported injuries. While these are unverified claims, the overall complaint volume for a popular luxury SUV over six model years is modest. The record shows no fire incidents and no reported deaths. The RX 450h presents a reassuring safety profile 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.