Lexus RX 450h: A hybrid of luxury and efficiency

MANILA: In 2005, Lexus first launched the RX 400h, which is the first ever luxury hybrid SUV in the entire auto industry. Since then, Lexus has sold over two million hybrid vehicles worldwide.

The Lexus RX badge has always been the pioneer among hybrid SUVs. The current RX 450h is known not only for the efficiency brought by its hybrid drivetrain, but also for the luxurious driving experience that it offers.

The RX 450h is powered by a self-charging full hybrid system that features a 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 petrol engine and front and rear motors. The engine and the electric motors generate a total system output of 308hp. The engine’s combustion chamber design produces a high level of tumble inside the cylinders to enhance combustion performance and fuel economy.

The vehicle also comes with the new Lexus Hybrid Drive System that was reengineered to deliver best-in-class fuel economy, less emissions, and outstanding performance. The front transaxle comes with a new water-cooled transmission cooler for the electric motor and a pre-loaded differential for better performance and guaranteed stability.

The rear transaxle in the E-Four all-wheel-drive system now comes with a three-shaft configuration, creating a more compact unit in which the input shaft can be moved as close as possible to the output shaft. This new design also helps reduce the vehicle’s weight since aluminum was used for the case and cover.

The new Lexus Hybrid Drive System also features a redesigned power control unit (PCU) and an HV engine control unit (ECU) that generates better energy efficiency, more driver-friendly maneuvering, and improved performance. It also comes with a lighter electric water pump and a repackaged hybrid battery that help improve space efficiency. The E-Four electric all-wheel-drive system’s control functions were also enhanced to be more responsive when accelerating through curves.

The RX 450h features Takumi craftsmanship as seen on its striking exterior and elegant interior. The cabin is designed with premium materials that exhibit quality construction. It gives off a commodious and intimate ambience, providing high levels of comfort to the driver and passengers.

The cabin is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display that can be linked to a smartphone through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other premium features include hands-free power back door, roomy cargo space, LED headlights, illuminated exterior door handles, and ornamented leather shift knob.

The RX 450h also comes with a hybrid system indicator that presents real-time information on the system’s output and energy regeneration. The driver can also select the EV Drive mode through the driver selector to enable a silent and emission-free movement at low speed. A smooth ride is also ensured by the adaptive variable suspension.

Lexus engineers have added an additional 4.2 meters of adhesive and 14 weld points on the key areas in the rocker panels, rear wheelhouses, and underbody to ensure the rigidity of the vehicle’s body. This enhances the durability of the panel joints, improving both stability and ride comfort.

The RX 450h is constructed using laser screw welding. High-tensile strength steel is used in key areas such as the underbody cross members and front and center pillar sections. Lexus also uses a ring-frame construction technique to ensure the strength of the frame sections around the front and rear doors. Several spot welds were applied on the areas around the rear body frame to enhance handling stability.

With the hybrid technology and modern production techniques that were applied on the RX 450h, it is guaranteed that every occupant will experience a luxurious, comfortable, and convenient ride, especially in urban settings.

Lexus Chief Engineer Takeaki Kato stated, “In developing the new model, I was determined to keep and further refine the ‘one-of-a-kind’ value that only the RX could create, something which has been cultivated since the first generation.”

The Lexus RX 450h is priced at P5.238 million.

To know more about the RX 450h, log on to the official website of Lexus Philippines at lexus.com.ph and follow @lexusmanila on Facebook and Instagram. To book an appointment with a personal sales consultant, log on to the Lexus Remote page at fal.cn/3eSWW.

Photos from Lexus Philippines

Also read: Lexus PH offers special financing packages for NX, LS this Aug.