MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Lexus RX 450h

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
69Complaints
1Investigations
ABOUT THE LEXUS RX 450H

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.

VERDICT

The 2021 Lexus RX 450h earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 85 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 16.4%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15962

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record14/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Lexus RX 450h at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

69 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

9reported crash
0reported fire
9reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsAir Bags 47Unknown Or Other 7Structure 4Forward Collision Avoidance 4Seat Belts 4Service Brakes 3

Other RX 450h years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15962), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Lexus Rx 450h 2021. Class rank 58 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure