Power of a 4.5-liter class, despite being 3.5 liters

The engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces a maximum output of 249ps on its own. Combined with an electric motor, the Toyota Hybrid System has a system output of 299ps. The system's overview is to reduce fuel consumption by using the electric motor to assist with starting and acceleration, and to run on electric power up to a certain speed.

The V6 used in the RX450h is an Atkinson cycle engine, also used in the previous hybrid model. It is characterized by its ability to achieve combustion with less fuel by adjusting the valve timing. However, the disadvantage is that the torque in the low-rpm range is weaker compared to the normal Otto cycle, but the electric motor compensates for this. In short, the hybrid system is effectively utilized. As a result, the car is named "450" because it has the power of a 4.5-liter class vehicle, despite being a 3.5-liter.

Hybrid models account for 80%

The hybrid RX450h is characterized by its high performance, low fuel consumption, and low noise. The drivetrain is available in both all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive. "Although our initial forecast was that gasoline cars (RX350) would account for 80% of sales, it turned out to be the opposite, with hybrid cars making up 80%," said a Lexus development representative. This indicates that the current hybrid boom is a tailwind for sales.

The AWD version employs a unique 4WD system called "E-FOUR," which is equipped with a dedicated electric motor for rear-wheel drive. This system drives all four wheels on slippery or rough roads, but drives only the front wheels at high speeds to improve fuel efficiency.

With a generous wheelbase of 2740mm and a body length of 4770mm, the RX450h offers a spacious interior. One might expect this type of car to be more front-seat focused and personal, but it would be practical for users with families. In that sense, while its shape is that of a "4WD," the luxury car positioning of a "new form" has been more strongly emphasized with this luxury-oriented approach.

LEXUS RX450h (AWD)
Body | Overall length 4770 x Overall width 1885 x Overall height 1690mm Wheelbase 2740mm
Vehicle weight | 2090kg
Engine | 3456cc V6
Maximum output | Engine: 183kW [249ps] / 6000rpm
Front motor: 123kW [167ps]
Rear motor: 50kW [68ps]
Maximum torque | Engine: 317Nm [32.3] / 4800rpm
Front motor: 335Nm [34.2]
Rear motor: 139Nm [14.2]
Drivetrain | 4WD
Transmission | Super Intelligent 6-speed AT
Suspension | F: MacPherson strut R: Double wishbone
Tires | F: 235/60R18 R: 235/60R18
Price | 5.7 million yen

Lexus Information Desk
0800-500-5577
http://lexus.jp

BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer new value, distinct from American and German luxury cars, through Toyota's superior technology, excellent quality, and exceptional customer service.

When the "LS400" (domestic name: Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic name: Camry) were introduced to the American market in September of the same year, the LS400 quickly won the "Best Import Car" award in February 1990. Since then, Lexus's reputation has only grown, and with the expansion of its lineup, it has solidified its position as a luxury car brand.

Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its business development in Japan in May of the same year. In August 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup lacked the flagship "LS," consisting of the "GS" (successor to Toyota's Aristo), "SC" (Toyota's Soarer), and "IS" (successor to Toyota's Altezza). However, with the introduction of the long-awaited new LS in September 2006 and its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, Lexus met the expectations of luxury sedan buyers.

Meanwhile, Lexus has been focusing on building a sporty image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008 with the developing sports coupe "LF-A." Further expansion of its popularity is anticipated.