MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2026 Lexus RX 500h

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

2Recalls
1Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE LEXUS RX 500H

The Lexus RX 500h is a performance-oriented hybrid SUV slotting into the competitive midsize luxury segment. Aimed at buyers who want spirited driving dynamics alongside upscale refinement, it pairs a turbocharged hybrid powertrain with Lexus's signature interior quality. It competes against the BMW X5 xDrive50e and Volvo XC90 Recharge, appealing to safety-conscious families who refuse to sacrifice driving engagement.

VERDICT

The 2026 Lexus RX 500h earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

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 RX 500h as the most driver-focused variant of the RX lineup, praising its responsive hybrid performance and polished interior. Most agree the ride and handling balance is a step above typical luxury SUV norms, though some note that the infotainment learning curve can be steep. Overall professional reception is strongly positive.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 15.5%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21622

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record18/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE26V162000

Risk: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software or replace the rearview camera, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 15, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 26LB02 and 26LA02.

Reported 2026-03-18

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION25V744000

Risk: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.

Reported 2025-10-30

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

1 owner complaint on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsStructure 1

Other RX 500h years

Rivals in SUV (2026)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 21622), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Lexus Rx 500h 2026. Class rank 70 of 143 in SUV 2026. Methodology · Disclosure