But it wasn't until I drove the new RX 400h that I started to envision exactly what Toyota had in mind for its industry leading hybrid technology. Combined with what is essentially a stock RX 330 V6, slightly detuned in this application, Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive
 |
| New combination lights, with LED technology to provide higher brightness at lower power over a longer lifespan, mark the changes to the rear of the RX. (Photo: Lexus) |
Lexus chose the big island of Hawaii to debut the new RX 400h, a paradisiacal setting of palm trees, blue ocean water, rain forest, and pretty well every other type of climate known to man if you take a day to drive its many twisting, undulating roads. The idyllic surroundings only reminded all attending how critical it is for us to do more in reducing tailpipe emissions, no doubt the intention of the Lexus reps that planned it.
 |
| Front and rear tire fairings and underbody covers combine with sleek sheetmetal and flush-mounted glass for a 0.35 coeffiecient of drag. (Photo: Lexus) |
Kona is a picturesque little city, although the black volcanic landscape that surrounds it makes for more of a moonscape, or "Marscape" than the tropical Hawaiian postcard scene I've grown accustomed to seeing over the years. It was my second time on the big island, and strangely enough I ended up staying just down the highway from where I vacationed previously - Mauna Lani instead of Waikoloa Village.
For those thinking of staying at either popular destination, here's a word of advice. If you're taking kids, Waikoloa is ideal, as it's basically Disneyland gone tropic. If you don't have kids, however, you'll probably find the place a little, no a lot on the annoying side. Mauna Lani, on the other hand, is "Adults Ville". It's quiet, sophisticated, and especially interesting as it is filled with ponds of exotic fish, including sharks, a passion of King Kalahuipua who once chose the seafront oasis as his personal home. Just like in the King's time, our first evening was made magical with a traditional luau that combined superb food and drink with the requisite Polynesian dancing.