All-New Lexus RX 450h Luxury Hybrid SUV at Geneva

Posted on March 9, 2009
Filed Under Car Show, Hybrid SUV, Lexus RX 450h | 853Leave a Comment2009-03-09+10%3A20%3A33dancurranjr

lexus-rx-450h On the Lexus stand at the Geneva Motor Show this week is the all-new RX 450h, boasting the lowest CO2 emissions of any premium crossover.

The 450h follows on from the 2005 launch of the ground-breaking RX 400h to introduce second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology.

The system has undergone significant development in the RX 450h.

Unlike mild hybrids, which use supplementary electric motor power simply to boost the performance of the petrol engine, the RX 450h is a full hybrid.

That means it is capable of operation in both petrol and electric modes alone, or in a combination of both.

The RX 450h has a series/parallel hybrid system employing a highly efficient petrol engine and two powerful electric motors working in tandem to provide an ‘intelligent’ four-wheel drive capability.

However, comprehensive enhancements have achieved a 10 per cent increase in engine power and a 28 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.

A combined cycle figure of 44.8mpg is coupled to CO2 emissions of a remarkably low (for the segment) 148g/km.

The 3.5-litre DOHC petrol engine produces a maximum 246bhp at 6,000rpm and 317Nm of torque at 4,800rpm.

This luxury hybrid SUV will be on sale in summer 2009, with prices and specifications to be announced nearer the time.

SOURCE: New Car Net

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