Lexus RX 450h has new "Advance" model, more luxury and style.

When it comes to the RX 450h, Lexus has gone beyond “Luxury” to add a new Advance model to its prestige full hybrid SUV range.

Advance takes the established Luxury grade features and adds a full complement of styling features that introduce an extra dimension to the RX’s impactful contemporary appearance. A new, deep front bumper increases the sense of the car being firmly planted on the road, with LED headlight units amplifying the effect and reinforcing Lexus’s reputation for harnessing innovative technology features. The lights further benefit from Lexus’s I-AFS auto-adaptive system, moving in line with the steering to give better illumination at junctions and through bends.

The specification also includes new seven-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels and the choice of either a fixed panoramic roof or an electric sunroof.

In other respects the new model delivers the same high quality, innovation and supremely refined and efficient performance that define the RX. The standard equipment list presents an impressive array of features, including Smart Entry and Start; dual-zone climate control; leather upholstery; heated, eight-way adjustable front seats; heated, auto-diming and folding door mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers; and rear privacy glass.

On-board connectivity and infotainment are fully covered by the Lexus Premium Navigation system, 12-speaker audio pack, DVD player (single disc) and DAB tuner. The system also provides a rear-view camera and Bluetooth for hands-free calls and audio streaming, and is operated using Lexus’s intuitive computer mouse-like Remote Touch Interface.

The essential functionality of a family-size SUV is addressed in details such as the 40:20:40 individual sliding and folding rear seats and a power-operated rear door.

The RX 450h’s full hybrid powertrain delivers a strong combination of performance and efficiency: deploying a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and a powerful electric motor, it produces a maximum 295bhp, enabling nought to 62mph acceleration in less than eight seconds. Thanks to a second electric motor on the rear axle, the system can automatically deliver all-wheel drive performance when conditions require extra grip.

Lexus’s continuous improvement of its hybrid technology has secured impressive fuel economy and low emissions: official combined cycle figures are 44.8mpg and 145g/km.

In perfect time to prepare for the rigours of winter driving, a Protection Pack can be specified for the Advance, adding a boot liner, bumper protection plate, cargo net and rubber floor mats.

The RX 450h Advance is available now, priced £48,495; the Protection Pack adds £445 to the price tag. Lexus offers a choice of six exterior colours: Velvet Black, Arctic Pearl, Mercury Grey, Satin Silver, Celestial Black and Burgundy Red. These can be matched with ivory, light grey, black and saddle tan perforated leather in the cabin, all matched with a dark grey gloss inlay.