Lexus is leading the way in the luxury hybrid market with the introduction of the 2006 Lexus RX 400h. Based on the ultrapopular Lexus RX 330 SUV, the RX 400h offers traditional Lexus luxury combined with improved fuel economy and eco-friendly utility. Available in either front- or all-wheel drive, the SULEV-rated Lexus RX 400h uses a new hybrid system that combines the efforts of a 3.3-liter V6 engine with three electric motor-generators, scoring an EPA rating of 33 city/28 highway. Equipped with a continuously variable transmission, the Lexus hybrid SUV boasts an impressive 268 hp. That's 38 more horsepower than the RX 330. With a 0-60-mph time of just 7.2 seconds, the RX 400h's quick acceleration belies its frugal fuel consumption. Typically, the RX 400h gets underway with electric power until the computer deems it necessary for the engine to fire up. This makes for quiet takeoffs, but it also highlights other noises that can be intrusive.
To ensure a serene driving experience, Lexus added an acoustic glass windshield and a quieter radiator cooling fan. The battery pack, which is the heart of the hybrid system, is housed under the Lexus 400h's rear seat. With 30 modules comprised of eight cells per module its total peak power is 80-percent stronger than the Toyota Prius'. Another new piece of technology introduced in the RX 400h is an all-encompassing vehicle stability control system Lexus calls Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM). Instead of reacting to an already occurring driving situation, VDIM is designed to anticipate vehicle instability in every direction while making corrections.
On the road, the Lexus RX 400h waltzes up steep highway grades as if it was taking a stroll through the suburbs. It feels considerably faster than the RX 330, a vehicle it outweighs by 300 pounds. Additionally, the 400h hybrid has tighter suspension tuning than its Toyota Highlander Hybrid cousin, and this, along with its 18-inch tires, makes for a more engaging drive without compromising the plush ride Lexus buyers expect. The 2006 Lexus RX 400h may command an $11,000 premium over a base RX but it comes loaded with nearly every possible feature.
The standard equipment list includes items such as power-adjustable front seats, stability and traction control, second-row seats that slide and recline, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power rear hatch. Options on the RX 330 that have been made standard on the RX 400h include leather interior trim, a roof rack with rails, a one-touch open/close moonroof, a DVD navigation system with rear backup camera, a six-disc CD changer, xenon headlamps that swivel when you turn and 18-inch alloy wheels. Put all of this stuff on a regular gasoline-powered RX and the premium for the Lexus hybrid is about $3,000. Factor in a tax credit and the money you'll save on gas, and there's plenty to be said for driving the first hybrid luxury SUV.