What's the difference?
Lexus has finally brought a plug-in hybrid to the Australian market with the RX450h+, and we’ve been testing the second-from-the-top Sports Luxury grade to see how it stacks up.
Promising a blend of electric efficiency and the high-end comfort Lexus is known for, this large SUV steps into a competitive segment. But does it deliver on both fronts?
First launched in 2008, the BMW X6 created history (and a new car category) with its coupe styling on an SUV framework.
It was a polarising effort but one that opened up the SUV market for those wanting the size and presence of an SUV without compromising on the sporty styling of a smaller car.
The 2024 X6 has had a facelift and that brings a more athletic and robust kerb-side appeal that might swing a few fence sitters onto the side of liking it.
The already pleasant interior has been polished with extra customisations available on trims and accents. The technology has seen the biggest upgrade and it now features a more streamlined mild-hybrid component to the engine. It all positions the X6 well and truly within the rank of luxury.
For the last week I’ve been driving the mid-spec xDrive40i M Sport variant to see how the facelifted model holds its own against rivals, the Audi Q8 55 TFSI Dynamic Black and Mercedes-Benz GLE450 4Matic Coupe.
The new Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury is packed with a wealth of premium features and strikes a solid balance between refinement and practicality. There are enough thoughtful touches that make everyday driving a little easier.
You’ll get the most out of the plug-in hybrid powertrain if you’re able to charge it regularly; ideally every day. That might not always be practical for busy people on the go, but overall, the RX450h+ manages to blend efficiency with Lexus’ signature comfort and quality.
I was not expecting to like the BMW X6 xDrive 40i M Sport as much as I do. The styling is still polarising but the facelift will throw more people towards the liking rather than disliking side of the fence. The cabin and boot are super practical and the X6 nails all the premium elements you expect at this level. It’s driving and handling are what win me over, though.
My son loves this one and doesn’t want to hand it back. My husband also noted how nice he thought the X6 was… and that’s saying something for a born and raised 'country boy'!