Hybrid Features Of Lexus RX 400h

The Lexus Hybrid 400h hybrid looks nice on the outside and cushy on the inside, but how does this SUV handle? According to Toyota, superbly. As with every other hybrid, the Lexus RX 400h Hybrid has two engines - gasoline and electric - that function together or separately. This is where the fuel-efficiency comes in. The way the motors work in tandem makes some people think that all vehicles should be hybrid. They could be right.

The gas engine is a 3.3 liter V6 like the one found in the RX 350. With a combined 268 horsepower output when used in conjunction with the electric motor, this SUV kicks butt with gasoline conservation. This is a definite plus with gas prices being so high. The electric motor in the front operate optimally under regular driving conditions, and the electric motor in the rear kicks in when the pedal is to the metal in full-throttle acceleration.

The gasoline engine switches off whenever you slow down, is traveling at a low speed or is idling. This is when the electric motor takes over. With a built in Ni-MH battery, there is plenty of energy to run the SUV as well as store electricity that is produced when the vehicle brakes. It's also very helpful when the vehicle speeds up. The Lexus RX 400h Hybrid can reach 60 miles per hour in 8 seconds. Most other SUVs cannot do that and the Lexus is doing it with an electric motor. It is also consuming the same amount of gasoline as a compact four cylinder car. Hence the ability to get a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle designation in the United States.