2006 Lexus RX 400h Road Test

Even better for testing out its capability in the curves was the twisting and turning course that wraps around Kilauea volcano, followed up by a steep climb to the top of Mauna Kea. OK, it's not possible to drive to the very top of Hawaii's highest peak, but the road to the observatories did get us to about 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), about 60 meters (200

The 400h's unique electric all-wheel drive system features a variable front/rear drive torque ratio, which improves traction at takeoff. (Photo: Lexus)

feet) shy of its summit. Once again the 400h was stellar, offering plenty of power all the way to the top, even when the battery pack ran dry and we were left to the combustion engine only. This is to be expected when scaling such a long and steep hill, as there's no opportunity for the batteries to recharge. Still, as I mentioned, there was ample power on hand when it was needed, so no worse for wear.

The road to the top isn't entirely paved, which gave opportunity to test the 400h's unique electric all-wheel drive system. It features a variable front/rear drive torque ratio, which improves traction at takeoff. Slippery mud or snowy, icy conditions would have been better for testing out its capabilities, however none were available despite the cold atop Mauna Kea's summit.

The view, mind you, was magnificent, thousands of feet above the clouds, bright and sunny. The freezing temperatures, and the fact that I was only wearing a light shirt, shorts and sandals, made sure that we didn't stay long, therefore made our way down the long, switchback road.

The SUV's new Electronically Controlled Braking system, as well as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, make up for a great deal of driver error. (Photo: Lexus)

Keeping things in control were the SUV's new Electronically Controlled Braking system, as well as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, both electronic driver's aids that make up for a great deal of driver error. The brakes were powerful whenever called upon, and VDIM, which orchestrates key electronic aids to work in unison, such as stability control, traction control, ABS brakes, etc, is truly inspirational when dealing with corners.