The 400h also includes rollover sensors that trigger the side curtain airbags if necessary, while the modified bodyshell is extremely rigid, benefiting crash resistance.
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| The RX 400h changes everything about luxury sport utilities. (Photo: Lexus) |
Having dropped off the new SUV at the hotel valet, I looked back to take in one of the most impressive vehicles of its type to ever be produced. I knew then, as I still feel now, the RX 400h changes everything about luxury sport utilities. Like the Prius which became a better value proposition when it gained in size, the 400h will seem like less of an investment due to its V8-like performance.
I have to say I'm a believer in Toyota's hybrid philosophy, and the 400h is its best effort to date. Now it's possible to do the right thing, being rewarded with excellent fuel economy and extremely low emissions when doing so, as well as improved performance. Again, it's like having your cake and getting to eat it too. And after all, what's the use of having cake and not being able to eat it? Lexus may be onto something.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated base MSRP): $60,000
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
- Layout: front engine, AWD
- Gasoline Engine: 208 hp, 212 lb-ft of torque, 3.3-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Electric Motor (AWD): two electric motors
- Combined Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Horsepower: 268
- Acceleration: under 7.4 seconds
- Transmission: Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable (ECVT)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Cap (estimated with seats folded flat): 2,305 L (81.4 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance (estimated): 173 - 183 mm (6.8 - 7.2 in)
- Towing Capacity: 1,590 kg (3,500 lbs)
- Fuel Economy (combined city/hwy): 8.4 L/100 km (27.4 mpg)
- Emissions Rating: SULEV / Tier 2/Bin 3 and Zero evap
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 72/110,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: BMW X5 4.4i, Infiniti FX45, Mercedes-Benz ML500, Volkswagen Touareg V8, Volvo XC90 V8
- Web Site: www.lexus.ca
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
