News On Hybrid

[Matthew_McNally]

from auto123 by AlexCAMS@aol.com

The hybrid-powered version of the RX sport utility vehicle from Toyota's upscale Lexus division will come to Canada this April at two price points -- $62,200 for the RX 400h Premium trim and $69,700 for the Ultra Premium trim of the same vehicle.

That amounts to a surcharge of $6,420 over the Premium version of the RX 330, and $6,365 over the Ultra Premium version of the same car.

For the company's part, Rebecca Wu asks consumers to ''remember that there is really no comparison between RX 400h and RX 330.''

The more expensive model ''gives you the advantages of the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain (great fuel efficiency, and low emissions), new stability control, the equivalent of 268 hp, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, electric power steering, electronic brake control, electrically-powered air conditioning, and other features.''

Whatever price consumers end up paying for the RX 400h, Stuart Payne, the director responsible for Lexus in Canada, re-iterates the point that the SUV is fairly unique as a hybrid-powered vehicle because it's been designed to provide performance as well as fuel efficiency and low emissions.''

Payne notes that, with the RX 400h, ''we've combined the exceptional performance of our Hybrid Synergy Drive with unsurpassed luxury and attention to detail to create a truly remarkable vehicle, while delivering it at a price that will make the RX 400h very attractive to Canadians looking for the ultimate luxury SUV.''

The RX 400h features a Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) powertrain with a 3.3-litre V6 and a high-torque electric-drive motor-generator, plus a rear electric-drive motor-generator.

''Together with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission,'' explains Payne, ''RX 400h delivers the equivalent of 268 hp to accelerate from 0-100 kmh in under eight seconds, with improved low- to mid-speed response.''

Payne further points out that the RX 400h powertrain has ''fuel efficiency comparable to that of an average compact sedan,'' as well as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating, which is ''one of the most stringent emissions ratings in the industry.''

Every RX 400h is equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), a feature that's unique to the hybrid models in the RX range. Payne says ''VDIM is a ground-breaking system that uses a variety of sensors to anticipate vehicle stability control problems and correct the situation through braking and throttle control. The new VDIM system is less intrusive than a conventional vehicle stability system, and ultimately more effective.''

Regardless of trim level, Payne notes, the RX 400h comes with unique brushed aluminum interior accents to ''create a look and feel that complement the vehicle's high-tech performance. Inside and out, the RX 400h continues the Lexus tradition of fine materials and craftsmanship.''

At the Premium trim level, Payne explains, the RX 400h includes nearly every feature in the traditional RX 330 with an in-dash six-disc CD changer, power rear door, power tilt sliding moonroof, high intensity discharge headlamps, adaptive front lighting system, and premium illuminated entry.

The Ultra Premium trim level takes all of these standard features and adds a Mark Levinson audio system with 11 speakers, two sets of wireless headphones, rear audio joystick controls, a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a seven-inch liquid crystal display rear monitor, audio and DVD remote controls, and a DVD-based navigation system.