How Does Lexus RX 450h Fare Against Obsessed-Over Volvo XC90?

By Tony Markovich - September 6, 2016

The Volvo XC90 has been written about in every corner of the automotive press. It has won all sorts of awards; Jeremy Clarkson named it as one of his favorites of the past year; and everybody is (rightfully) drooling all over the lush interior. But while the Swedes have been dominating the SUV headlines, Lexus also launched its brand new version of everybody’s go-to utility vehicle, the RX.

Completely redesigned for the 2016 model year, the RX went the opposite direction of the smooth Volvo and took on an edgier approach that has obvious NX cues. Car Magazine recently rounded the two up, along with the Audi Q7, for a luxury SUV battle that might have people rethinking their sheepish ideas about CUVs.

Becuase this is a Lexus crowd, I’ll go ahead and spoil the surprise by telling y’all that associate editor C.J. Hubbard picked the RX 450h as his winner. In his words:

“I find myself drawn to the Lexus. The interior is individual, exceptionally high quality and – once you acclimatise – remarkably pragmatic; it provides comfort without sloppiness, goes as quickly as most will ever require, and I like seeing that little EV light come on, no matter how short the periods. The styling is divisive, and it won’t be for everyone, but the RX450h is – surprisingly – the SUV from this trio I’d most like to put on my drive.”

Hubbard also agrees that the “loser” Volvo is more of a 1B than anything, and it’s also an exceptional option. The Audi? Aside from its great powertrain, he wasn’t impressed.

Check out the full story, then let us know your thoughts.