Lexus Canada Announces Pricing for World's First Hybrid Luxury SUV

Other standard RX 400h features include unique 18-inch alloy wheels and electrically-powered air conditioning. Inside,

Lexus is the first nameplate to offer advanced hybrid technology in a luxury vehicle. (Photo: Lexus)

superb fit and finish of high-quality materials join attractive brushed aluminum interior accents to deliver a high-tech overall appearance to complement the SUV's otherworldly drivetrain.

The top-line RX 400h is the Ultra Premium package, starting at $69,700. Adding to the long list of Premium, or standard features, is an 11-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, two sets of wireless headphones, joystick audio controls for rear passengers, a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a seven-inch liquid crystal display rear monitor, audio and DVD remote controls, and a DVD-based navigation system.

Lexus is the first nameplate to offer advanced hybrid technology on a luxury vehicle, and it won't be the last. Expect the brand to incorporate its HSD system to other vehicles in its range, delivering V8-like performance with compact 4-cylinder fuel economy, and potentially offering hybrid powertrains incorporating its powerful V8 engines to put out V12 levels of power and refinement.