PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE

The RX 450h employs Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, seamlessly combining a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine and a high output electric motor to deliver breathtaking power.

A Lexus hybrid world-first

The RX 450h is the world's first hybrid vehicle to include a V6 Atkinson Cycle engine (otherwise known as a high-expansion cycle engine). Combined with Quad Cam multi-valves and Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence, the RX 450h takes engine efficiency to an entirely new level.

Lexus Hybrid Drive

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system integrates the 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine with a high torque electric motor. The V6 engine produces a maximum 183kW of power at 6,000rpm and 317Nm of torque at 4,800rpm, while the front electric drive motor delivers 123kW with 335Nm of instantaneous torque.

In addition, the RX 450h has a 50kW electric motor to power the rear wheels via Lexus' unique Electronic Four Wheel Drive system. Any spare energy that can't be immediately used is stored as electricity in a compact 288 volt Nickel Metal Hydride battery.

Lexus RX450h hybrid drive
Image shown may be an overseas model and may differ to local specification. Please confirm specifications with your local dealer.

The power of E-Four

The unique Electronic Four Wheel Drive (E-Four) system on the RX 450h's rear wheels contributes to the excellent energy efficiency and performance of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. E-Four saves fuel by only using All Wheel Drive when it is needed. E-Four drives the rear wheels during take-off, acceleration and low-speed cornering.

When traction is required during acceleration, tight cornering and marginal driving conditions, E-Four adjusts the distribution of torque to ensure stable driving performance, working in conjunction with the RX 450h's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system.

 

Lexus RX450h All Wheel Drive
Image shown may be an overseas model and may differ to local specification. Please confirm specifications with your local dealer.

Regenerative braking

The RX 450h, like all Lexus Hybrid Drive vehicles, never needs to be plugged in to recharge. Its batteries are charged through regenerative braking on all four wheels through the electric drive motor in the E-Four system. Kinetic energy usually lost as heat when braking is captured as electrical power and used to recharge the battery.

Impressive suspension

The unique trailing-arm type double-wishbone rear suspension provides exceptional agility and control, while fully independent MacPherson strut front suspension further enhances handling and ride comfort.

Electronic continuously variable transmission

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system in the RX 450h includes clutchless Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), which ensures incredibly smooth acceleration without the interruption of gear changes. By adapting to driver input and driving conditions, ECVT ensures the engine continuously operates at peak efficiency for improved fuel economy.

 

Lexus RX450h ECVT
Image shown may be an overseas model and may differ to local specification. Please confirm specifications with your local dealer.

Adopt an energy-efficient driving style

The RX 450h includes technology designed to help you adopt a more efficient driving style. Place the vehicle in ECO mode and it will automatically adjust the air conditioning and responsiveness of the accelerator to improve the vehicle's efficiency. In EV mode, the RX 450h has the ability to travel up to two kilometres at low speeds on electric power alone, using no fuel and emitting no CO2. Often, when you're not accelerating, the petrol engine will not be running2.

 

Lexus RX450h EV Mode
Image shown may be an overseas model and may differ to local specification. Please confirm specifications with your local dealer.

Superb handling and control

Adroitly engineered systems that add to the exceptional level of drive performance and fuel efficiency in the RX 450h include road speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS), which ensures no power is wasted by engaging only when it is required. EPS forms part of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system and helps correct oversteer and understeer.

In addition, you'll experience outstanding vehicle control with the electro-hydraulic braking system, which controls each brake independently. This provides more precise brake force distribution and closer cooperation with related safety systems.

Lexus RX450h SUV Hybrid road
Image shown may be an overseas model and may differ to local specification. Please confirm specifications with your local dealer.

Footnotes

1. Fuel consumption will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories. Source of fuel consumption data: ADR 81/02 combined (L/100km).
2. Using EV mode and depending on battery charge condition and road gradient.