# Lexus RX — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Lexus RX on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/lexus-rx

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2023
- **Ideal trim**: F-Sport
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £34,498

## Why this model

The Lexus RX is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a premium SUV that blends luxury, comfort, and incredible reliability. As a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the RX 450h+ offers the best of both worlds: you can do most of your daily commutes on electric power alone, saving a lot on fuel, and still have the petrol engine for longer journeys without range anxiety. Lexus consistently tops reliability surveys, meaning fewer unexpected repair bills and a more stress-free ownership experience. It's a really refined and quiet car to drive, perfect for long trips or just cruising around town.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a 2023 Lexus RX 450h+ F-Sport with 30,000-50,000 miles is typically selling for around £34,498. This represents excellent value, as you're getting a nearly new, highly specified premium SUV that has already taken the brunt of its initial depreciation. Prices can vary slightly based on exact mileage, condition, and specific optional extras, but this is a solid target price to aim for.

## Which trim to buy

The F-Sport trim is our top pick for the Lexus RX 450h+. It strikes a fantastic balance between luxury, technology, and a slightly sportier edge without compromising on comfort. You get stylish 21-inch F Sport alloys, a more aggressive exterior look, and crucially, Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) which really improves the driving dynamics. Inside, the F Sport seats are incredibly supportive, and you often get a head-up display, making it feel even more premium. It offers a significant upgrade over the Premium trim in terms of features and aesthetics, but without the higher price tag of the top-tier Takumi, making it the sweet spot for value and enjoyment.

## What to check before you buy

- Generally very reliable, no widespread common faults reported for this generation. Minor software glitches can occur but are usually resolved with updates.

## Running costs

Running costs for the RX 450h+ are surprisingly good for a car of this size, especially if you can charge at home regularly. For electric driving, using a smart tariff like Octopus Go/Intelligent Octopus (around 7.5p/kWh) could cost you as little as 3.4p per mile. On a standard tariff (around 30p/kWh), it's closer to 13.5p per mile. If you drive 10,000 miles a year and manage to do 70% on electric power, your annual 'fuel' cost could be around £700. When the petrol engine kicks in, expect around 40-50 mpg, which at current petrol prices (approx. £1.50/litre) works out to about 15.1p per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2023 model will be £0 until April 2025, then £195 per year. Insurance will vary, but expect to pay between £600-£1200+ annually depending on your personal circumstances.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Plug-in Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 309 hp
- **Mpg**: 40-50 mpg (hybrid mode) / 100+ MPGe (electric assist)
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Premium | £60,000 | £33,000 | 19-inch alloy wheels; 14-inch Lexus Link Connect touchscreen; Heated front seats |
| F-Sport | £65,000 | £34,498 | 21-inch F Sport alloy wheels; F Sport exterior styling; Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) |
| Takumi | £70,000 | £38,000 | 21-inch alloy wheels; Panoramic roof; Mark Levinson premium sound system |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £34,498 | 100% |
| 2027 | £31,738 | 92% |
| 2028 | £29,199 | 84.6% |
| 2029 | £26,863 | 77.8% |
| 2030 | £24,714 | 71.6% |

Buying a 2023 Lexus RX 450h+ in 2026 means you're picking it up after the steepest part of its depreciation curve. Lexus models, especially hybrids, tend to hold their value better than many rivals, but the initial drop from new is always the largest. By buying a 3-year-old car, you're getting a modern vehicle with most of its life ahead of it, but at a significantly reduced price, making it a smart financial move for long-term ownership.

Total value lost since new: 28.5%.

## Alternatives to consider

- BMW X5 xDrive45e
- Audi Q5 TFSI e
- Volvo XC60 Recharge

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.