A normal V6-powered Lexus RX 330 with all-wheel drive can achieve 12.4 L/100 km (19 mpg) city and 9.0 L/100 km (26 mpg) on the highway, by the way.
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| The RX 400h may be the first hybrid that makes economical sense to its prospective buyers. (Photo: Lexus) |
The new 400h will also be rated as a super ultra low emissions vehicle (SULEV), the best rating given to vehicles under U.S. federal government standards.
The RX 400h will mark the first time a luxury nameplate will feature hybrid power, and more significantly the first time a vehicle has made use of the technology to improve performance over its conventionally-powered counterpart. While allowing V8 power in an engine bay that would otherwise not be capable of housing a larger V8 motor, the RX 400h also may be the first hybrid that makes economical sense to its prospective buyers. Anyone doing the math needed to compare the fuel savings of a Honda Civic Hybrid to a regular Honda Civic, for instance, will see it will take a very long time to pay for the difference in the hybrid car's price merely in fuel savings. Most hybrid buyers take the plunge into the relatively unproven technology for
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| Lexus will offer V8 power in its new RX 400h, for a similar premium to its competitors, while enhancing fuel economy and improving emissions. (Photo: Lexus) |
In comparison, those opting for V8 power in a luxury SUV expect to pay substantially more for the privilege over whatever the price the base engine vehicle is being offered at. For example, to move up from a comparable V6-powered Infiniti FX35 to a V8-powered FX45 a premium of $7,600 will be required. The same scenario in a BMW X5 costs $12,900. Lexus will offer V8 power in its new RX 400h, for a similar premium to its competitors, while enhancing fuel economy and improving emissions, something its rivals do not offer.