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2026 Lexus RX 450h+ Luxury: A Comprehensive Review

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The 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ Luxury, a plug-in hybrid model, offers a blend of sophisticated design, luxurious comfort, and practical efficiency, positioning itself as a compelling choice for discerning drivers. While it delivers a premium experience, the significant price premium over its conventional hybrid counterpart prompts a closer examination of its value proposition. This review explores its key attributes, from its elegant aesthetics to its advanced technological features and driving characteristics.

Experience Refined Efficiency: The 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ Luxury Redefines Hybrid Driving

Deciphering the Plug-in Hybrid's Value Proposition

The Lexus RX series has consistently been a top-seller for the brand, now offering gasoline, traditional hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants. A substantial price gap of nearly $20,000 separates the HEV and PHEV models, raising questions about the justification for the additional cost for electric-only driving. Despite its estimated 37-mile electric range, which is beneficial for daily commuting, the RX 450h+ faces a challenging market, as indicated by the RX hybrid's ten-fold higher sales volume. Furthermore, the 450h+'s powertrain, shared with the Lexus NX PHEV and the former Toyota RAV4 Prime—both offering greater electric range—makes its premium price tag even more puzzling. My test model, priced at $71,860 before options, included a host of luxury features such as all-wheel drive, 21-inch alloy wheels, advanced LED lighting, premium leather seating with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, multi-zone climate control, a 14-inch touchscreen, head-up display, and wireless Apple CarPlay. With optional enhancements like a Panoramic View Monitor, Mark Levinson audio, and advanced parking assistance, the total came to $76,145.

Elegant Design: A Fusion of Muscularity and Grace

Now in its fifth generation, the RX has undergone a complete transformation for the 2023 model year, achieving its most refined design to date. Its silhouette is both robust and graceful, showcasing a harmonious blend of intricate details and cohesive styling. The front grille is seamlessly integrated, featuring floating diamond patterns connected by subtle black elements. Arrow-shaped daytime running lights are integrated into the headlamp clusters, enhancing its distinctive look.

The vehicle's sides feature deeply sculpted doors and pronounced fender creases, while the 21-inch multi-spoke wheels perfectly complement its stance. A standout design feature is the "floating roof" effect, achieved by a long, elegant line extending from the A-pillar to the D-pillar. The rear styling continues this elegance with full-width wraparound taillights that resemble wings, and a minimalist liftgate that echoes the converging lines of the front fascia.

An Exquisite Cabin: A Sanctuary of Luxury

The interior of the RX 450h+ Luxury is a testament to top-tier craftsmanship. Every surface exudes quality, from the Semi-aniline leather with suede trim, especially striking in the Macadamia color, to the meticulously crafted suede door panels and matching fabric speaker covers. The cabin's color scheme harmonizes beautifully with the matte Ash Bamboo accents found on the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel.

The RX 450h+ Luxury boasts Lexus's finest cabin, offering a blend of clean lines, premium materials, and artfully integrated screens. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, providing an ideal balance of cushioning, support, and adjustability, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. Rear passengers also benefit from generous legroom and headroom. Although the battery placement slightly reduces cargo capacity compared to non-plug-in RX models, the storage area remains ample for daily use and weekend excursions. Noise insulation is superb, making the cabin remarkably quiet in electric mode and maintaining minimal engine noise when the gasoline engine is active.

Driving Dynamics: Smooth Refinement Over Raw Power

Behind the wheel, the RX 450h+ delivers a quintessential Lexus driving experience: swift yet not overtly sporty, and smooth without being excessively powerful. It combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with three electric motors, powered by an 18.1-kWh battery pack. All-wheel drive is standard, with the rear wheels driven solely by electric power. The combined output of 304 horsepower is more than sufficient for a vehicle focused on daily practicality rather than extreme speed. While this surpasses the RX 350 Hybrid's 246 horsepower, it falls short of the RX 500h's 366 horsepower.

Acceleration is fluid but lacks the assertiveness of a high-performance vehicle, with 0-60 mph achieved in just under six seconds. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritizes efficiency and smoothness, resulting in a relaxed and linear power delivery, though some drivers might miss the crisp gear changes of traditional transmissions. While there is noticeable body roll, the RX 450h+ maintains its composure, reinforcing its identity as a comfortable highway cruiser rather than a corner-carver.

Electric Range and Charging Efficiency for Everyday Use

A significant advantage of the RX 450h+ is its electric-only driving capability, offering an estimated 37 miles of range. This is particularly beneficial for daily commutes, allowing drivers to potentially avoid gas stations for days or even weeks with nightly charging. For longer trips, the system seamlessly transitions to standard hybrid mode, utilizing regenerative braking to maintain efficiency and eliminate range anxiety.

The 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ is equipped with a 6.6 kW onboard charger. This allows for a full battery charge in approximately 2.5 hours when connected to a 240V Level 2 charger. Alternatively, it can be charged using a standard 120V household outlet, taking around 7.5 hours. This flexibility means that even without a dedicated Level 2 charger, owners can still benefit from the plug-in hybrid's electric capabilities, though a faster charge may be desirable for busy schedules involving multiple short trips.

Advanced Technology and Intuitive Infotainment

The RX 450h+ features a large central touchscreen, the Lexus Interface 14-inch high-resolution color screen, serving as the command center for infotainment and vehicle controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay integration is quick and seamless, and the system is highly responsive and intuitive, even without phone mirroring. Physical controls include two prominent climate control knobs with integrated temperature displays and an audio knob, though some functions like seat heating/ventilation and drive modes are exclusively accessed via the touchscreen.

Lexus's D-pad style steering wheel controls for audio and cruise control require some adaptation but become intuitive over time. These controls display pop-up screens on both the head-up display and the instrument cluster, allowing drivers to activate functions by placing a finger on the desired section and pressing. While this design minimizes distraction, it still requires a brief glance away from the road during the learning phase.

The RX 450h+ is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. These include Automated Emergency Braking, Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Lane-Keeping Assistance, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Assist, Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Brake, and Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection. Optional features like Advanced Park with Remote Park further enhance safety and convenience. This robust set of features contributes to the vehicle's strong IIHS Top Safety Pick rating.

The Final Word: A Luxurious Hybrid with a Questionable Price Tag

The 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ stands out as a meticulously crafted plug-in hybrid, excelling in comfort, refinement, and aesthetic appeal. It embodies the proven Lexus philosophy, offering a practical electric range, superior ride quality, and a premium interior that aligns with its high-end positioning. However, the substantial price increase for its all-electric capabilities means that it would take an extended period of ownership to recoup the cost through fuel savings alone. For those prioritizing luxury and efficiency without the significant premium, the Luxury trim of the standard RX 350 Hybrid might represent a more financially sensible option.

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Cybertruck Transformed into Ultimate Mobile Workspace with New Storage System

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Unplugged Performance has launched an innovative bed storage slider system for the Tesla Cybertruck, aiming to enhance its utility and transform it into a highly organized mobile workspace. This stainless steel, two-level system is engineered for durability and flexibility, designed to cater to the needs of field teams and anyone requiring robust equipment transport. It integrates smoothly with the Cybertruck's existing features, maintaining access to critical functions while offering superior cargo management capabilities.

The $4,995 accessory not only boosts the vehicle's practicality but also complements its impressive payload capacity, making it an ideal solution for carrying heavy tools and gear. With options for additional upgrades like custom wheels and off-road packages, Unplugged Performance is positioning the Cybertruck as a customizable platform for both practical work applications and adventurous pursuits.

Enhanced Organization and Durability for Cybertruck Owners

Unplugged Performance has unveiled a cutting-edge, two-tier bed storage system specifically designed for the Tesla Cybertruck, transforming the electric pickup into an exceptionally organized and functional mobile workstation. This robust accessory is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, ensuring remarkable durability and a capacity to support over 1,000 pounds of equipment. The system features heavy-duty mechanical sliders and latches, allowing users to effortlessly slide the platforms forward and backward within the truck bed for optimal accessibility. This design not only maximizes the usable storage space but also ensures that tools, construction materials, and other gear can be securely transported and easily retrieved, significantly boosting the Cybertruck's practicality for diverse applications.

This innovative storage solution is tailored to meet the rigorous demands of field teams, including engineers and event support staff, who rely on efficient and secure transportation of their equipment. When fully retracted, the system cleverly allows full access to the Cybertruck’s under-bed 'smuggler's bay' while preserving ample space for additional cargo on the main bed. Conversely, extending the system towards the tailgate provides immediate and convenient access to the stored items. The design thoughtfully retains functionality of the factory L-track mounts and the bed power outlet, and notably, it permits the tonneau cover to close even when the storage system is extended, offering comprehensive security and weather protection for all contents. This seamless integration of robust construction and intelligent design makes the Unplugged Performance storage system a vital upgrade for any Cybertruck owner looking to maximize their vehicle's utility.

Transforming Cybertruck into a Versatile Mobile Command Center

The introduction of Unplugged Performance's bed storage slider system significantly enhances the Tesla Cybertruck's versatility, enabling it to function as a highly efficient mobile command center. Despite earlier market skepticism and fluctuating public interest, the Cybertruck remains a formidable electric pickup known for its inherent toughness and substantial capabilities. Unplugged Performance capitalizes on these strengths by offering an upgrade that directly addresses the need for superior organization and accessibility of tools and equipment. This stainless steel system, priced at $4,995, is not just a storage solution but a strategic investment for professionals who depend on their vehicle as a critical part of their operational infrastructure. Its ability to support heavy loads and integrate with existing truck features makes it indispensable for demanding work environments.

Beyond its primary function of organized storage, the system ensures that the Cybertruck's impressive payload capacity, which stands at up to 2,500 pounds—outperforming competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning—is fully utilized. This capacity, combined with a towing capability of up to 11,000 pounds in dual- and tri-motor configurations, means the Cybertruck can effortlessly handle the weight of the storage system even when it's fully loaded with heavy tools and gear. Unplugged Performance further enriches the Cybertruck experience with a range of other aftermarket enhancements, from eye-catching 24-inch gold wheels to comprehensive off-road packages that include bull bars, lift kits, and beadlock wheels for enhanced traction. These offerings solidify the Cybertruck's role as a multifaceted vehicle, capable of serving as both a practical workhorse and a customizable platform for specialized needs, catering to a diverse clientele seeking both utility and personalization.

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Raymond Loewy's Studebaker Avanti: A Mid-Century Automotive Icon in Art Museum

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The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is making a bold statement by featuring Raymond Loewy's meticulously restored Studebaker Avanti as a central exhibit in its new David Geffen Galleries. This move places a mid-century automotive masterpiece, celebrated for its advanced design and powerful performance, alongside traditional fine art, underscoring the profound connection between industrial innovation and artistic expression. The Avanti, a personal vehicle of the legendary designer, has been brought back to its original glory, offering visitors a unique perspective on the intersection of car culture and the art world.

This initiative not only celebrates the Avanti's distinctive design and historical significance but also highlights the visionary work of Raymond Loewy, whose influence extends across numerous iconic products and designs. By presenting the Avanti in an art museum setting, LACMA challenges conventional notions of what constitutes art, inviting a broader appreciation for the aesthetic and cultural impact of automotive design.

The Avanti: A Masterpiece of Mid-Century Design and Engineering

The Studebaker Avanti, a vehicle far ahead of its time, is a testament to the bold innovation of the mid-20th century. Its striking, unconventional styling, characterized by a sleek, aerodynamically efficient silhouette, immediately set it apart from its contemporaries. Beyond aesthetics, the Avanti was a marvel of engineering, boasting a supercharged V-8 engine that delivered impressive power and performance. This combination of groundbreaking design and robust mechanicals solidified its status as an icon, reflecting the era's optimism and ambition. The car's fiberglass body, a revolutionary material for its time, further contributed to its futuristic appeal and lightweight construction.

Designed under the direction of Raymond Loewy, a titan of industrial design, the Avanti emerged from a pivotal moment in Studebaker's history. Loewy's design team, working with remarkable speed in California, crafted a vehicle that transcended mere transportation to become a work of art. The Avanti's performance capabilities were equally impressive, particularly the R3 variant, which, with its larger engine and supercharger, set speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats. This blend of visual artistry and raw power encapsulated the spirit of an age where form and function converged in spectacular fashion.

Raymond Loewy's Vision and the Avanti's Legacy at LACMA

Raymond Loewy's prolific career spanned diverse industries, leaving an indelible mark on modern design, from consumer products like the Coca-Cola bottle to architectural and aerospace projects. His personal Studebaker Avanti, a 1963 R2 model, embodies his comprehensive approach to design, merging functionality with an unparalleled aesthetic vision. Customized by Loewy himself with unique accents and a subtle three-tone paint finish, this car reflects his meticulous attention to detail and his belief in the artistic potential of industrial objects. Its inclusion in LACMA's new David Geffen Galleries underscores the museum's commitment to exploring the broad spectrum of art, challenging traditional boundaries.

The Avanti's exhibition within a gallery focused on car culture in Southern California positions it as a significant cultural artifact, illustrating the region's deep connection to automotive innovation and design. Curator Bobbye Tigerman emphasizes that the exhibit aims to view the automobile through various artistic lenses, demonstrating how vehicles can serve as canvases for creative expression. By placing the Avanti alongside works from renowned artists like Magritte and Picasso, LACMA asserts its belief in the car's artistic merit. This strategic placement not only elevates the Avanti's status but also redefines the audience's perception of art, proving that beauty, innovation, and cultural significance can be found in the most unexpected forms, including a classic American automobile.

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