Toyota is a major player in the hybrid space. The Japanese automaker produces some of the best hybrid vehicles on the market. Recently, Toyota has also been making competitive plug-in hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius Prime and Toyota RAV4 Prime. Its luxury division Lexus is also getting in on the plug-in hybrid action. Which plug-in hybrid SUV is better? Time for 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ vs. 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime.

Is the 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ just a fancy Toyota RAV4 Prime?

Lexus may be Toyota’s luxury brand, but it has crafted its own unique identity thanks to several impactful nameplates. Sure, Lexus vehicles take clear inspiration from existing Toyota models, but they bring their own qualities to the table. In fact, thousands of consumers would rather pay higher prices for Lexus models instead of their more affordable Toyota counterparts. Still, the question remains, is the upcoming 2024 Lexus RX450h+ just a fancier midsize version of the RAV4 Prime?

Specs	2024 Lexus RX450h+	2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Starting MSRP	$70,080	$43,090
Standard Powertrain System	2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and three electric motors	2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors)
0-60 MPH Time	6.2 seconds (estimated)	5.7 seconds

Right off the bat, there are huge differences between Lexus’ plug-in hybrid SUV and the RAV4 Prime. The Lexus model is significantly more expensive. Additionally, it has more luxurious standard features than the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Furthermore, the RX450h+ is a midsize SUV, while the RAV4 Prime is a small SUV.

Toyota’s base model plug-in hybrid SUV is slightly quicker based on current 0-60 mile per hour estimates. Ultimately, the RX450h+ is the better plug-in hybrid SUV for drivers that value high-quality materials and advanced tech features. It isn’t designed for the average consumer. Upper trim levels are even more exclusive and expensive.

2024 Lexus RX450h+ standard features

The 2024 Lexus RX450h+ comes with plenty of great standard features, including heated/ventilated front/rear seats, ambient lighting, and a heated wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel. It also includes a perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed interior, a panoramic glass roof with roof rails, and a Head-up display.

RX450h+ models feature a 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, all-speed dynamic radar cruise control with curve speed management, and lane tracking assist. The PHEV also comes standard with lane departure alert with steering assist, proactive driving assist, and road sign assist.

Which is better: 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ vs. 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime

When it comes to the average consumer, the RAV4 Prime is the better plug-in hybrid SUV for the money based on affordability alone. The Lexus RX 450h+ has incredible standard features and offers great value, but it’s far too expensive for most drivers.

There’s a market for Lexus’ midsize plug-in hybrid SUV, but it’s unlikely to be more popular than the RAV4 Prime. So, is the 2024 Lexus 450h+ the better model based on specs and features? Perhaps. Is it going to outsell the Toyota RAV4 Prime? Probably not. Lexus is producing a competitive family PHEV that only a few fortunate consumers will get to enjoy.