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Toyota’s luxury brand is amassing a massive following. The brand has received plenty of recognition for producing affordable luxury vehicles that tend to last long. Are Lexus SUVs the greatest affordable luxury SUVs, or is another brand deserving of the title?

Lexus makes several affordable luxury SUVs

A blue Lexus NX small luxury SUV is parked.
The Lexus NX | Lexus

The luxury vehicle class seems out of reach for thousands of Americans. Japanese brand Lexus makes luxury accessible via reasonable pricing. Factor in depreciation, and consumers can get amazing deals on used Lexus models. From subcompact to full-size, the luxury brand brings incredible value through long lists of standard creature comforts and above-average longevity.

Lexus SUVs tend to be nearly as reliable as their Toyota counterparts. Consumers have caught on to this reliability, and many choose Lexus over rivals for the long haul. Additionally, many Lexus models offer exhilarating performance specs for drivers who want sportier vehicles.

Lexus affordable luxury SUVs are the best of both worlds

A blue 2024 Lexus NX small luxury SUV is parked.
The 2024 Lexus NX | Lexus

Toyota makes some of the most popular SUVs in the game. Models like the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander are hits among consumers because they are practical and don’t break the bank. Their luxury cousins arguably provide even more value for drivers with a taste for the finer things.

Lexus luxury SUVs are the best of both worlds. They have affordable starting prices and come with all the comfort and tech you’d expect from a luxury model. Do they provide a degree of luxury comparable to that of BMW and Mercedes-Benz? Not necessarily. That said, Lexus SUVs do give models from brands like Acura and Genesis a run for their money.

Two of the best examples of Lexus SUVs that provide incredible value for the money are the Lexus NX and Lexus RX. The NX is closely related to the best-selling RAV4. Its larger sibling, the RX, is a relative of the popular midsize Toyota Highlander. Both models have bolder exteriors than their relatives, along with better standard features. Additionally, Lexus offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid variations of their SUVs, making them even more versatile.

What are the best Lexus SUVs for the money?

A blue Lexus RX midsize luxury SUV is driving on the road.
The Lexus RX | Lexus

Lexus produces several great SUV nameplates, but two provide more value than others. Toyota has mastered hybrid technology production, and so has its luxury brand, Lexus.

One of the best Lexus SUVs for the money is the Lexus RX Hybrid. The hybrid SUV is great for families interested in long-term ownership.

Starting MSRP$51,800
Base Engine 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Hybrid Powertrain System
Horsepower 246
Torque (LB-FT)233
MPG37 City, 34 Highway
2024 Lexus RX Hybrid

Lexus RX Hybrid standard features

  • Ambient illumination
  • NuLuxe interior trim
  • Leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob
  • Heated front seats
  • Black Cascade interior trim
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Lexus’ midsize hybrid SUV model is loaded with great standard features that provide a luxurious ownership experience. It may seem pricey, but it provides adequate value for the money if owned for a long period of time. Furthermore, studies claim that hybrid models are actually more reliable than gas models, so the RX Hybrid’s true potential may still be unexplored.

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