The Test: The RX 450h is full of surprises. This hybrid version of the five-passenger RX 350 crossover is very fast and off-road capable, with two more inches of ground clearance than the stock Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4matic. It also smokes the city fuel economy of the Benz—though we wish it had more range in electric-only mode and the option to plug it in to charge.
Crave the XC90’s pedestrian-detecting tech? Upgrade with the Safety System + ($635), which will adjust your steering line should you start to stray from your lane. Want the taut feel of a Mazda CX-3? Get the F Sport edition ($55,645), which offers a more engaging ride and better handling. Still, the cargo space (56 cubic feet) was lacking.
The Verdict: Cleaner for the city but can still get grimy in the country.
$52,235; 30 mpg city/28 hwy