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The New Lexus TX 550H+: A Luxury Plug‑In Hybrid Unveiled
The Lexus TX 550H+ has finally arrived, and it’s making a splash with its bold design, premium interior, and the promise of a plug‑in hybrid powertrain that can deliver both power and efficiency. Launched in Austin, Texas, the vehicle carries a striking new color called Matador Red, a deep, rich shade that looks especially striking on the TX’s large 22‑inch wheels and body‑colored fender flares. The TX is positioned as a three‑row, all‑wheel‑drive luxury SUV that competes with the likes of the Volvo XC90 and the Mercedes‑Benz GLS.
Powertrain and Performance: A V6 That Keeps the Gas Engine Alive
Under the hood, the TX houses a 3.5‑liter V6 that is transversely mounted and naturally aspirated. Unlike many plug‑in hybrids that rely on small, turbo‑charged engines, Lexus has chosen an older‑school V6 that offers longevity and low engine stress. The combined output of the V6 and the electric motor reaches 404 horsepower, and the vehicle is equipped with full‑time all‑wheel drive for added traction. When the battery is depleted, the V6 takes over, but the battery still provides a respectable 33‑mile electric range according to EPA estimates.
Electric Range and Charging: How Far Can You Go on a Single Charge?
There is some confusion about the battery’s capacity, with reports ranging from 13 to 18 kilowatt‑hours. Regardless of the exact figure, the TX can be charged from empty to full in about three hours using a Level‑2 home charger. The interior includes both 120‑volt and 240‑volt outlets, allowing for faster charging if a Level‑2 charger is installed. The team behind the review conducted a “baseline challenge” to measure real‑world range, and the results will be posted soon on the channel’s website.
Inside the TX: Space, Comfort, and Tech Features
The interior is designed for families, with a third‑row that folds electronically and offers ample headroom for six adults. The seats slide forward and backward, and the third‑row can be folded flat with the push of a button. The cabin also features a 14‑inch touchscreen that controls climate, audio, Apple CarPlay, and navigation, while physical buttons remain for climate control, volume, and defrost. Cup holders are designed to accommodate square bottles, and the layout is flexible enough to reconfigure the second‑row seats if needed.
Driver Assistance and the Frustrating Lane‑Keeping System
One of the more frustrating aspects of the TX is its driver‑assist system. The vehicle offers both lane‑tracing and lane‑keeping modes, but the controls are buried deep in the settings menu. Turning off lane‑keeping is not intuitive, and the system can still intervene even when the driver believes it has been disabled. The review team spent considerable time trying to locate the correct setting, and they eventually found it in the “Driver Assistance” section of the car’s infotainment system.
Ride and Suspension: Soft Yet Responsive
The TX’s suspension is tuned for comfort, with large 22‑inch wheels and a relatively soft ride that absorbs big bumps well. However, the small sidewalls of the tires can transmit minor road imperfections into the cabin. The reviewer noted that while the vehicle feels smooth on rough roads, it can feel a bit “bouncy” on uneven surfaces. Adjusting the wheel size or tire profile could improve the balance between comfort and handling.
Pricing, Availability, and the Bigger Picture
The TX 550H+ starts at $85,863, with a destination fee of $1,450. The vehicle’s fuel economy is rated at 76 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in electric mode and 29 mpg in hybrid mode, depending on driving conditions. Compared to the Volvo XC90 plug‑in hybrid and the Toyota Grand Highlander, the TX offers a higher level of luxury and a more powerful powertrain, but it comes at a premium price. Lexus’s decision to launch the model in Texas and build it in Indiana reflects the brand’s strategy to expand its presence in the U.S. market.
Modern Spare: A Practical Solution for the No‑Spare‑Tire Generation
Because the TX does not come with a spare tire, the review team highlighted a sponsor, Modern Spare, which offers tire kits that include a spare, jack, and carrying case. The kit is designed to give owners peace of mind in case of a flat, especially for those who drive long distances or live in areas with limited roadside assistance.
Overall, the Lexus TX 550H+ delivers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and electric efficiency. While the vehicle’s driver‑assist system can be confusing, the spacious interior, powerful V6, and respectable electric range make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.