New Lexus Hybrid Combines V8 Power with Four-Cylinder Fuel Economy
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Thrifty Fuel Economy and Cleaner Emissions Make RX 400h Right for the Times
As of May 4th, the worlds only luxury sport utility vehicle with a hybrid gasoline-electric drivetrain, based on the popular RX 330 gasoline-only powered SUV, has been available in Lexus showrooms across the nation.
While it gets the best combined fuel consumption rating in its class, at 30 mpg, using about 31 mpg in city driving and 29 mpg on the highway, and emits the least toxic fumes, the worlds first luxury hybrid sport utility isnt all about producing clean emissions and saving fuel. Rather, Lexus has used its Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) system to improve performance, endowing the midsize SUV with V8-like acceleration to go along with its 4-cylinder fuel consumption and Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) emissions rating.
Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Denny Clements says the hybrid version of the RX 330 represents “no compromises” for luxury buyers.
The new 2006 RX 400h combines the RX 330s 3.3-liter V6 engine and a high-torque electric-drive motor-generator, as well as an electric-drive motor-generator in the rear for true all-wheel drive characteristics. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission puts power down to the road, allowing the RX 400h to jump to 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds, matching and even surpassing most V8-powered luxury SUV rivals.
The combination of gasoline and electric motors results in the equivalent of 268-horsepower, which, while slightly less than comparable V8-powered competitors, gets the added boost of near all of its torque available from zero rpm, plus much improved low- to mid-speed acceleration.
The 2006 RX 400h comes extremely well equipped in Premium trim for $49,185, just one of two trim levels with no conventional “base” model available. Premium models include all of the expected luxury features, such as power windows, locks, mirrors, and more, plus automatic climate control and a high-quality audio system with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Other features include a power rear door, power tilt sliding moonroof, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, adaptive front lighting system, with headlamps that turn to light up the curves ahead, and premium illuminated entry.
Also included at the entry level is Lexus superb Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, exclusive to the 400h in the RX lineup. VDIM, also standard in the upcoming GS 430 luxury sedan, incorporates multiple sensors to anticipate and then counteract vehicle stability control problems through electronic braking and drive-by-wire throttle control. Less intrusive than a conventional vehicle stability system, VDIM is also much more effective.
Other standard RX 400h features include unique 18-inch alloy wheels and electrically-powered air conditioning. Inside, superb fit and finish of high-quality materials join attractive brushed aluminum interior accents to deliver a high-tech overall appearance to complement the SUVs otherworldly drivetrain.
The top-line RX 400h is the Ultra Premium package. Adding to the long list of Premium, or standard features, is an 11-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, two sets of wireless headphones, joystick audio controls for rear passengers, a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a seven-inch liquid crystal display rear monitor, audio and DVD remote controls, and a DVD-based navigation system.
Lexus is the first nameplate to offer advanced hybrid technology on a luxury vehicle, and the RX 400h wont be the last. During the New York International Auto Show in March the Toyota division introduced the GS 450h, which should up performance over the RX 400h while becoming the worlds first HEV luxury car. Expect the brand to incorporate its HSD system to other vehicles in its range too, delivering V8-like performance with compact 4-cylinder fuel economy, and potentially offering hybrid powertrains incorporating its powerful V8 engines to put out V12 levels of power and refinement.
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