Indeed, through the development team's efforts, the hybrid model "RX500h F Sport Performance" was born. It is equipped with the "DIRECT4" all-wheel-drive system, which leverages electrification, and a new generation series-parallel hybrid system.

This model, given the new name "Performance," offers a hybrid system combining a 2.4-liter engine with a high-output electric motor (not the traditional THS II). Lexus claims it delivers responsive acceleration and smooth extension, along with precise four-wheel-drive control that maximizes grip on both front and rear wheels while also controlling vehicle posture. Lexus describes this as "realizing a new driving experience for electrified vehicles."

The RX500h F Sport Performance's hybrid system uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. Instead of a torque converter, a clutch connects the motor and transmission, and another clutch is placed between the motor and engine. The result, they say, is improved efficiency and responsiveness.

When the turbocharger boost is insufficient during acceleration, the motor spins to add torque to the front and rear wheels. The goal is to achieve sharp acceleration across all RPM ranges. This is the function of the new hybrid system. Output figures have not yet been released.

DIRECT4 is a precise four-wheel-drive control technology that maximizes grip on front and rear wheels and controls vehicle posture. It is described as a system that "utilizes electrification technology." While previous hybrid 4WD systems were called E-Four, the use of motors to pursue even better driving performance has led to the practical application of this technology in the RZ and RX.

As mentioned earlier, the latest Lexus models announced sequentially – the NX, LX, and RZ – vary in size and type. Nevertheless, as LX Chief Engineer Takami Yokoo stated, "We thoroughly refined the driving feel of Lexus for the LX, and it has been finished to our satisfaction." This sentiment suggests that all models offer a highly enjoyable driving experience, and expectations for the RX are high.

The lineup for the new RX is diverse, starting with the "RX500h F SPORT Performance" mentioned above. Notably, all gasoline engines are now four-cylinder; multi-cylinder engines are no longer offered.

The "RX450h+" is a hybrid model with a 2.5-liter engine and "THS II." It is equipped with an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. It is available only in 4WD and uses the "E-Four" system, where the rear wheels are driven by a motor.

The "RX350h" also uses the "THS II" hybrid system with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine. It is available in both "E-Four" with rear-wheel motor drive and front-wheel drive configurations. The battery is nickel-metal hydride, and the output is set lower than the RX450h+.

Furthermore, the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) model, the "RX350," is available in front-wheel drive and full-time all-wheel drive. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine is said to undergo thorough control aimed at improving fuel efficiency. Carbon neutrality is also an important theme.

It is scheduled for release in Japan around Autumn 2022. The new RX promises to show us a new world, and its release is eagerly anticipated.