Lexus RX 400h

The new 2006 RX 400h is based off of the RX 330. The RX 400h is powered by Lexus' advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system that combines a 3.3L V6 engine with a front and rear electric drive motor for all-wheel drive capabilities. The combined systems output is rated at approximately 268 horsepower and an impressive 3,500 lb-ft of axle torque at launch. The RX 400h accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour faster then the RX 330 by 0.5 seconds.

The EPA fuel economy rating is listed as 31 mpg city, 27 mpg highway with a combined 29 mpg. Lexus has made the RX 400h it's premium model in the RX series by adding features that are offered as options on the RX 330. The only options available are heated seats, a Mark Levinson audio system, and a DVD entertainment system.

The RX 400h gas-electric hybrid joins the RX 330 as the top trim level of the Lexus RX lineup of midsize luxury SUVs. The RX 330 is the second generation of the RX 300 that debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit and became the best-selling Lexus model. In January 2003, the second-generation RX was unveiled at the NAIAS, renamed the RX 330 to reflect its larger-displacement engine. RX 330 production began in Japan and in September 2003 Lexus began production of the RX 330 at an assembly plant in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada, the first Lexus model to be built outside of Japan.

The RX 400h is powered by a new version of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system that pairs the 3.3-liter V6 that normally powers the RX 330 with an electric motor. Lexus describes the RX 400h hybrid system as a breakthrough in hybrid technology that not only improves the fuel efficiency, but also improves the performance. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the RX 400h produces the equivalent of approximately 270 horsepower at peak power, compared to 230 horsepower for the current RX 330.

The additional power will improve low- and mid-range acceleration. The RX 400h uses regenerative braking to improve efficiency with the electric motor, functioning as a generator when the vehicle is coasting or braking and converting the energy that is normally lost during braking to electricity. The RX 400h interior incorporates brushed aluminum trim for a more high-tech look to reflect the high-tech nature of the vehicle. A computer monitor for the hybrid system is located in the center of the instrument panel.