Lexus RX 450h Premier

This was after a period when anything other than an essential set of utility wheels was considered the devil’s spawn by a growing eco lobby.

A few bad winters combined with a commendable effort by manufacturers to lower CO2 emissions saw this lobby fall away.

It wasn’t only small SUVs that gained favour. Along came a large Lexus hybrid that achieved more than 40 miles to the gallon.

You’ve got to admit the delicious irony of a premium SUV that’s capable of trumping both its diesel powered rivals and most premium saloons in the economy stakes.

When the Lexus RX 450h launched 17 years ago, it defined the mid-size luxury utility vehicle.

The third-generation Lexus RX features pleasing fuel economy, a refinement that has become a byword for the brand and a 3.5 litre V6 petrol drivetrain that ensures you finish your journey as refreshed as when you started.

It’s a serious piece of kit beneath that leather-lined, chrome trimmed cossetting cabin. And while diesels have their place, they can’t compete when it comes to noise.

The ambience certainly adds to the enjoyment level, as does impressive build quality and the long list of equipment you always get with a Lexus.

Under the skin, the aforementioned 3.5-litre V6 is joined by two electric motors, which get their power from a battery pack. The engine and motor combination is rated at 295bhp, with the battery pack charged during normal use and during regenerative braking.

You can travel almost two miles at a maximum of 25mph in pure electric mode assuming the battery is fully charged, while in some situations the engine momentarily will shut down to save fuel.

The various elements – engine shutdown, stop-start feature, energy regeneration, the electric motor assistance, part-time all-wheel drive, smooth CVT gearbox – combine to make the 450h a car that you warm to.

The bulky 450h provides a hushed ride, enabling you to appreciate the excellent audio system in plush surroundings.

The RX 450h is driven only by the front wheels, while a second electric motor mounted on the rear axle engages the rear wheels when extra grip is needed. The transition from front to all-wheel drive is smooth and the standard air suspension gives a cushioned ride over uneven surfaces.

Turn the Lexus RX 450h too sharply into a corner and there is a fair amount of body roll. The electronically-controlled, self-levelling air suspension does its best to counter excessive lean, but it can’t disguise the 2.2-tonne kerbweight.

At a glance...

Lexus RX 450h Premier

Price: £55,495 (RX range from £44,495)

Engine: 3.5-litre petrol V6 unit plus two electric motors combined developing 295bhp

Transmission: Continuously variable transmission with manual override

Performance: 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds, top speed 124mph

Economy: 44.8mpg combined

CO2 emissions: 148g/km.