Used 2012 Lexus RX Hybrid for Sale nearDenver, CO

Let’s say you run into a genie and he asks for the proverbial three wishes. You tell him you want a crossover SUV with a luxurious interior, great ride, complete safety package, seating for 5 and oh, by the way, you want it to use gas like a camel uses water. First, he tells you that’s way more than three requests, but then he says, “You want a Lexus RX 450h!” The best part is, the 2012 Lexus RX 450h is not a fantasy - it is in fact, a reality.

The 2012 Lexus RX 450h is a carryover from previous years, and while it is offered in only one trim level, what a trim it is. It also offers three option packages to meet almost anyone’s needs. The Appearance package includes 19-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out headlight rings. The Sports package also includes 19-inch wheels, but has the addition of a sporty tightened suspension and Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. The Premium package includes a sunroof, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, leather seats, a power rear liftgate, driver's-seat memory settings and a rear-seat armrest.

Like its sister the Lexus RX 350, the RX 450h uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed transmission, but it also has a green-leaning electric motor for a combined 295 horsepower. Both RX trims are available with front- or all-wheel drive. The 450h can run on one or both of its power sources to maximize fuel economy and retain acceleration. You don’t have to plug it in to charge it, and it uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that acts much like an automatic. Hill-start assist is standard. In 2012, Lexus made the RX 350 able to use regular unleaded gas, but not so for the 450h, as it still takes premium, but literally sips it at 32 mpg city/28 highway. For the best handling the Sports package is recommended, as it allows sharper maneuvering.

The ride in the RX 450h is smooth as silk and comparable to that of many premium sedans. With the exception of some occasional whining from the electric motor, the RX 450h is blissfully quiet. Acceleration is rapid and reactive and has very little of the surging found in other hybrid vehicles. Standard in both Lexus RX models are real wood trim, XM satellite radio (3 months' free service, then it’s up to you), Bluetooth connectivity, iPod/USB ports, heated exterior mirrors, a leather steering wheel cover and rear-seat reading lights. You may need the first aid kit that also comes standard when your friends slap you for buying the ultimate midsize SUV.

The cargo space is a little awkward, because the rear seats do not fold completely flat and the sloped roof makes tall items difficult to fit in, but the RX will haul its passengers in style and comfort. Back seat passengers have ample legroom and fairly easy entry and exit access, and their own cupholders – hallelujah. Lexus added pull handles that make it easy to fold down the back seats through the rear access lift gate.

A navigation system controlled by a console-mounted "Remote Touch" module is available, and it's described as being intuitive and easy to use. It also includes real-time traffic and weather alerts. An optional side-view monitor uses TV cameras to show a wide-angle passenger-side view of the vehicle on the nav screen. Additional features include a dual-screen DVD entertainment system, hands-free parallel-parking system and adaptive cruise control.

The RX 450h comes standard with Lexus’ Pre-Collision System, which tightens the seatbelts and readies the brakes when sensors detect an imminent collision. Other standard safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, front-side airbags, rear-side airbags, and front knee airbags, and Safety Connect, which calls for help if you can’t. And just so you won’t have your heart broken, Lexus offers a theft-deterrent system that uses a rolling code to immobilize the engine until the correct smart access key is detected, thus thwarting potential thieves. Rain-sensing wipers are also available, but water-repellent windows are standard. All RX models come with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that monitors and notifies the driver of a low tire. Sweet.

The 2012 Lexus RX 450h is an unbelievably plush midsize luxury SUV that makes you feel good while driving it, and because of its small carbon footprint, will make you feel good owning it.