With the new Lexus RX 450h comes second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology and this full hybrid SUV takes the RX range into its third generation as the world's top-selling luxury SUV.
Most rival manufacturers are yet to produce a first generation hybrid but Lexus has drawn on more than a decade of experience in full hybrid powertrain technology to bring about improvements in every aspect of the vehicle's Lexus Hybrid Drive system.
The real-world efficiency of this new SUV has been significantly improved, with a 10 per cent increase in engine power, a 28 per cent reduction in combined cycle fuel consumption, a 30 per cent improvement in cold weather fuel efficiency and an unparalleled reduction in CO2 emissions.
Unlike mild hybrids, which use supplementary electric motor power simply to boost the performance of the petrol engine, the newcomer is a full series/parallel hybrid, capable of operation in both petrol and electric modes alone, or in a combination of both. It combines the fuel efficiency and reduced emissions benefits of a series hybrid with the acceleration benefits of a parallel hybrid.
It also shares the RX 400h's drivetrain configuration of a series/parallel hybrid system, employing a highly efficient V6 petrol engine and two powerful electric motors working in tandem to provide an 'intelligent' four-wheel drive capability. Total power output is 295bhp, enabling a top speed of 124mph and rest to 62mph in 7.8 seconds.
The RX 450h has the lowest fuel consumption of any premium SUV model with a combined cycle figure of 44.8mpg. CO2 emissions are also remarkably low at just 148g/km.
The 3.5-litre petrol engine is based on that used in the RX 350, but has been adapted specifically for use in the hybrid powertrain and the hybrid drive system benefits from refinements in drivability through expanded electric motor maximum torque bands and a new AI-SHIFT transmission control strategy to optimise engine efficiency. Three new driving modes, ECO, EV and SNOW, further improve the system's fuel efficiency and driving performance.
EV mode, available only with the full hybrid capability of Lexus Hybrid Drive and not available to drivers of mild hybrid vehicles, allows the car to be driven under electric power alone, with minimal noise and zero CO2 and NOx exhaust emissions.
The new RX 450h was designed specifically to meet the dynamic handling requirements of the European market and sets new standards for handling and driving enjoyment with high-speed cruising comfort and composure of a premium saloon, responsive handling and agility on winding roads and, through its electric four-wheel drive system, stable and tenacious off-road performance.
It combines the road presence of a premium SUV with the most compact packaging possible. It is 15mm longer, 40mm wider, 10mm higher and has a wheelbase that is 25mm longer than its predecessor, but these increases have been kept to a minimum in order to preserve the car's agility and town-friendly manoeuvrability and it maintains its class-leading 5.7m turning circle.
The innovative Remote Touch control, an integral part of the new Lexus Navigation System. It operates on the same basic principles as a computer mouse, with tactile force feedback when operated. It is quick and intuitive to use in conjunction with icons presented on the central multi-display screen to access and adjust the vehicle's audio, navigation, ventilation, phone and set-up systems and the new Head-Up Display presents key driving data in the driver's line of sight at the base of the windscreen.
A multi-information toggle switch mounted on the steering wheel lets the driver activate and customise numerous vehicle functions and information systems without taking a hand off the wheel. The control is linked to a new white LED multi-information display set within the driver's instrument binnacle.
Other key features of the new RX 450h range include a Smart Entry and Start system, automatic moving of the driver's seat and steering wheel for easy entry and exit, dual-speed power windows and a new, more efficient dual-zone climate control system. Lexus builds on its established high standards in in-car hi-fi with three new powerful audio systems.
The Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system sets a new benchmark for anticipatory, preventive safety. Operating at speeds above 3mph, it uses a millimetre-wave radar sensor to detect objects ahead, determines the collision risk and helps the driver reduce the chances of an accident happening and Adaptive Cruise Control works in tandem with PCS at speeds between 31 and 106mph. ACC automatically maintains a selected distance from the vehicle in front, returning to the original cruising speed once the road ahead is clear.
An all-new bodyshell with high torsional rigidity gives the newcomer a 20mm increase in wheelbase and 70mm increase in track compared to the RX 400h. Large, 18 or 19-inch wheels improve stability, reduce body roll and contribute to better NVH performance. The engine is positioned lower, lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity and improving overall vehicle weight distribution.
Higher grade versions can be equipped with a newly engineered, electronically controlled air suspension system. This has a revised construction, combining optimised pneumatic cylinders with high-capacity shock absorbers to deliver flat and supple ride comfort with superior road-holding. A very impressive vehicle in every respect and over a variety of roads in Hungary, I discovered the excellent ride and handling qualities of this latest offering from Lexus.
Prices range from £41,600 - £55,505 and sales will be split equally between fleet and retail.
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