Toyota has finally officially launched the several times-delayed 2006 Lexus RX 400h, the world's first petrol/electric hybrid-powered luxury SUV, which will go on sale in the United States in April.

Based on the petrol RX 330, the best-selling SUV in its US market category, the RX 400h is claimed to deliver greater performance, improved fuel efficiency and significantly reduced emissions at no sacrifice of luxury or utility.


Read the entire article here.
Read about an RX 400h road test here.

 

Thanks for the article Jason. I am impressed by the new Lexus Hybrid and if I were the King I would choose this car as my mobile throne, given its luxury. But, after my research, I have a few concerns about increases in estimated economy over the RX 330 and its use as a 4WD alternative. Lexus has not as yet given us a firm suggested MSRP price.

2005 Lexus RX 330
MSRP Price Range $35,775 - $37,175 (2WD - 4WD)

EPA Fuel Economy 2WD City 19 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy 2WD Highway 25 MPG

EPA Fuel Economy 4WD City 18 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy 4WD Highway 24 MPG

2006 Lexus RX 400h Hybrid
MSRP Estimated Price $44,000 - $54,000

EPA Fuel Economy AWD City 26 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy AWD Highway 30 MPG

As a Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD driver I have experienced a loss of power at high torque conditions (extreme 4WD) and now I read about the Lexus:

"Since the rear electric motor is air-cooled, there’s a concern for excessive heat build up, which would cause the system to shut down (to protect itself), temporarily leaving the RX 400h's passengers stranded. Not good when the tide is coming in." (From Edmunds)

You do the math from the RX 330 to the RX 400h. I am not yet sure the increase in MPG compared to the Estimated increase in cost and/or loss of 4WD power is worth it, even if you are the King.

Mike