Is it hard to imagine being environmentally conscious while driving a sport utility vehicle – Especially a luxury vehicle like a Lexus?
The 2010 Lexus RX 450h offers the best of several worlds, including being a very green vehicle and a luxury utility vehicle. Redesigned for 2010, the RX 450h replaces the 400h, which has been the top trim level of the RX line up since the debut of the 2006 model.
An updated version of Lexus hybrid drive, featuring a 3.5-liter V-6 Atkinson-cycle engine, lighter electric motors, a smaller and lighter power-control unit and other fuel saving innovations is introduced in the 2010 RX 450h. It offers performance similar to V8s with better combined fuel economy than the average four-cylinder mid-size sedan. With an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, it earns 8-12 percent better fuel economy than its predecessor and produces 295 total system horsepower, which is 27 more than the RX 400h.
Lexus offers a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive on the RX 450h. The AWD system was included in my test vehicle and uses a separate rear electric motor-generator to provide power to the rear wheels when road conditions or throttle response dictates. While the Lexus RX 450h is probably not going to be used intentionally in a treacherous off-road adventure, its capabilities are perfect for Northwest roads covered with snow or heavy rainfall. During freeway and around town driving, I found the ride was smooth and quiet.
The interior space in the vehicle provides good head, leg and shoulder room for four people. A redesigned rear suspension adds about 5 percent more cargo room behind the second-row seats than the previous model. The rear seats fold down to carry larger loads.
Blue accented meters on the dash strengthen the hybrid image, and a hybrid system indicator encourages driving in an economical manner. In addition to an Eco Driving indicator light, a new Eco driving indicator zone displays current fuel economy using a bar graph and alerts the driver when they are achieving low fuel efficiency. I find these displays to be very educational for the driver to actually see and learn how to use the hybrid technology for maximum efficiency.
A new Remote Touch device located on the console consolidates climate, entertainment and navigation functions in the cabin. Screen menus are selected with the controller, which is similar to a mouse and operates easily.
The 2010 Lexus RX 450h proves that you can be good to the earth while enjoying a lot of luxury!
Sally Hanson is a freelance automotive journalist who has lived in Kirkland 30 years.
