When the Lexus RX 450h debuted six years ago, it was one of a very few luxury crossover hybrids.

Today, it does have competition, but no one beats its mileage numbers (at about 30 mpg) and most rivals are pricier.

I thought it was interesting that the 450h came with 20 more ponies than its non-hybrid twin, the RX 350. They’ve got the same engine, a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but being a hybrid, the 450h is also supplemented with electric drive and the other hybrid extras like regenerative braking and autostop. The 450h puts out 245 horsepower, partnered with its continuous variable transmission. All told, the RX 450h is more powerful and gets about 40 percent more mpg than the non-hybrid model.

Inside, Lexus has all the typical luxury bells and whistles present, as well as plush and comfortable seating. Lexus has perfected the comfortable riding seat, and the 450h is great for long car rides.

A base price for an RX 450h is about $45,000, compared to $39,000 for an RX 350 model. And, to be honest, it would take you a long time to make up that difference in gas savings.

Most people who buy hybrids don’t necessarily buy them to just save on gas – hybrids are cleaner burning vehicles and leave a much smaller carbon footprint. And if that’s what you’re into, and you want a luxury crossover hybrid vehicle, the 450h is a top choice.

Like all Lexus vehicles, the price goes up substantially as you add on options. The bottom line price on my test vehicle was $55,784.