THE large SUV hasn't become passe yet, but it has certainly made a few prospective buyers think twice about getting one during these times. Unless of course it happens to be a luxury hybrid.
The Lexus RX450h may have the same body as a conventional RX350 sport-utility vehicle, but it is a different story under the hood. Like the RX400h it replaces, this new RX Hybrid offers something very special - stonking torque.
As a petrol-electric hybrid, the RX450h has three electric motors to complement the 3.5-litre V6 engine. But unlike non-premiums hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid which rely on electricity to morph into frugal fuel-sippers, the RX's electric motor ups the power quotient.
So when you're flooring the accelerator pedal, the three motors are boosting the V6's power rather than compensating for it. Even better is that the latest RX hybrid has 10 per cent more power than the previous RX400h - the combined system output is now 295 hp. Maximum torque has also increased by 10.4 per cent to 334 Newton-metres.
All in, the RX450h is supposed to have similar performance to a V8, but with the fuel consumption of an average four-cylinder mid-size sedan.
That's because a more efficient Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, lighter motor generators and a smaller power-control unit mean improved fuel economy of 11.9 km per litre in city driving.
At the same time, the RX450h delivers the oomph when required. The amount of low-end torque is amazing and this big car also has the ability to fly past most of the other traffic on the road with ease.
But more than the power and impressive acceleration, the attraction of this big Lexus is its comfort and convenience. The RX offers superb driveability despite its girth, with well-weighted controls that are easy to operate, and this new model is more fun to drive. Because the driver sits high, there is a commanding view of the road ahead. Even taller occupants are able to find the perfect driving position. And unlike in other Lexi, the good elbow space and headroom mean you won't feel hemmed in behind the wheel of an RX. The rest of the cabin is equally roomy and the boot is huge.
Then there is the RX's convenience factor. Getting in and out of the tall RX is easy because the seats are at the perfect height - not too high and not too low. The electric tailgate is also a boon and other little features - such as the anti-slip trays on the lower centre console - show just how thoughtful Lexus engineers are when it comes to the useability of their cars.
No wonder then that sales of Lexus hybrids have increased compared to last year. Among the hybrid models available, the all-wheel-drive RX450h seems to be the most attractive in terms of design and function. This third-generation RX is not only ruggedly handsome, but the crossover styling means it is also practical. Comfort and luxury have never looked this eco-friendly.
samuelee@sph.com.sg
This article was first published in The Business Times.
