2011 Lexus RX Hybrid
The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid blends a luxurious interior and a refined powertrain with excellent fuel economy. Though it’s expensive compared to the gas-only RX, reviewers say it’s an excellent hybrid SUV.
The Lexus RX 450h is like that old Reese’s commercial. With the RX hybrid, Lexus got a hybrid in their luxury and luxury in their hybrid. Go for the RX Hybrid and you’ll get a high-end and high-tech interior, smooth performance, and the satisfaction of saving some gas.
Other luxury brands are introducing hybrid SUVs. If you don’t want a hybrid but do want a Lexus, go for the Lexus RX 350.
The 2011 Lexus RX 450 comes in only one trim in front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The conventional RX 350 is reviewed separately.
Lexus redesigned its five-seat RX crossover for 2010, with the gasoline RX 350 carrying over a similar V-6 drivetrain. Because its electrically assisted V-6 grew to 3.5 liters from 3.3 liters, the RX 400h became the RX 450h. Slight exterior tweaks differentiate the RX 450h from its non-hybrid sibling.
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. The RX 350 adds a brake override system for 2011, but that feature was already standard on the RX 450h.
Interior
Like Lexus' other hybrids, the RX 450h's display screen can show the power flow between the drivetrain's electric motors, engine and battery. Interior features include:
Separate motors power front and rear wheels in all-wheel-drive models
Lexus used the Paris Auto Show to show off the 2011 Lexus RX 450h, the newest update in its RX hybrid SUV model line.
Reviewers have given this hybrid SUV high marks for its power, luxury, and fuel economy. For example, the RX 450h can tow up to 3,500 pounds and the front wheel drive (FWD) version has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg city/28 mpg highway/30 mpg combined. An all-wheel drive (AWD) version is rated at 30/28/29 mpg, respectively.
The FWD model uses two motors, while the AWD model adds a third motor to power the rear wheels. Previews of the 2011 Lexus RX 450h noted the incredibly useful and sophisticated optional voice-activated Heads-Up Display (HDD) Navigation system. The system uses a hard disk drive to store maps and data. Besides using voice commands, the HDD system can be controlled using the Lexus Remote Touch device. Remote Touch debuted on the 2010 Lexus RX 450h. At that time, it was exclusive to that hybrid SUV model.
