Lexus is paving the way in the luxury hybrid market with the introduction of the 2006 Lexus RX 400h. Based on the successful RX 330 luxury SUV, the RX 400h is easier on the environment, consumes less fuel, and offers a lavish cabin loaded with amenities.
The RX 400h incorporates a new, advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system that combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with a high-torque electric drive motor-generator. All wheel drive models add a rear electric drive motor-generator for improved on-road traction.
With a combined system output of approximately 268 horsepower, the RX 400h provides quick takeoffs while offering surprising fuel efficiency.
The RX 400h's EPA combined fuel economy rating of 29 mpg exceeds the average for new compact sedans. With a 31 mpg EPA rating in the city, it also exceeds most V8-equipped luxury SUVs by over 100 percent in everyday city driving.
The Lexus RX 400h is defined as a "full hybrid," which means that it is capable of operating in electric-only or gas engine-only mode as well as a mode that combines the power of the gas engine and electric motor.
With the RX 400h, Lexus obviously made great strides in isolating typical hybrid quirkiness, but you can still feel the gas engine coming on line. I wouldn't say it was objectionable. It just took a little getting used to.
The hybrid system uses a 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack, mounted under the rear seat. The battery pack's power is then boosted to 650-volts and then inverted into AC power.
Power from the gas engine and front electric drive motor is distributed to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. There is no shift-shock, just smooth acceleration. At 7.3 seconds, acceleration from zero to 60 mph is better than many V8-powered competitors.
When equipped with AWD, the RX 400h employs an innovative and separate 50-kW electric motor at the rear to provide additional power and improve foul-weather performance.
A regenerative braking system further boosts system efficiency. When the RX 400h is coasting or its brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries.
With the RX 400h, Lexus also introduces a new generation of vehicle stability control systems known as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). This new system goes well beyond conventional traction and stability controls that simply react to challenging conditions. Instead, VDIM anticipates loss of vehicle control in virtually any direction and can make stabilizing corrections.
To enhance visibility, the RX 400h includes a windshield and front side windows with a water-repellant surface that helps to bead rainwater.
I especially like the rear back-up camera, part of the available navigation package, that projects a color image onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is placed in reverse.
Lexus also provides the RX 400h with a standard Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) that helps to illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it.
The new RX 400h is the premium model in the RX series, adding numerous standard features that are offered as options on the RX 330.
The RX 400h offers a plush, comfortable cabin. This is one luxurious SUV you can feel good in. You'll pay a premium for the RX 400h, but you're getting a premium model. Don't buy it simply for the improved fuel economy; buy it for all of its benefits, for you and the environment.
2006 Lexus RX 400h AWD
Engine 3.3-liter V6 + 123-kilowatt electric motor (268 combined hp)
Transmission CVT automatic
Drive Type AWD
Fuel Economy 31 city/27 highway
Base Price $46,060
As Tested $50,308
Website http://www.lexus.com |
