Teresa’s View

Sat., Sept. 24, 2005

Teresa McCallion Marketing Department Correspondent

We Americans want it all, and we want it without the calories, thanks. In the auto world, we are equally demanding about our SUVs – we want it all, hold the guilt, please. Impossible? Not since Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid SUV. The 2006 RX 400h is a sport-ute that dispenses with that bothersome “irresponsible world citizen” feeling.

The RX 400h is powered by an advanced hybrid technology that combines a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and an electric drive motor-generator. Not only does the gas/electric combo generate 268 horsepower, it improves gas mileage and produces lower emissions than conventional models. Since it’s capable of operating in electric mode only, it qualifies as a full-on hybrid – a hybrid, according to Lexus, with a top speed of 112 mph that will scoot from 0-to-60 in just 7.3 seconds, mind you.

The RX 400h is based on the RX 330, Lexus’ popular mid-size luxury sport-ute. Some minor changes have been made to the exterior, but only the type that true aficionados will notice. Inside, aluminum accents replace wood trim and a power meter sits where the tachometer stood. Since nothing screams luxury like quiet, Lexus made the interior of the RX 400h even more serene than its gas-loving brother.

Along with the hybrid technology, Lexus introduces a new generation of vehicle stability control. The system actually anticipates vehicle instability and proactively adjusts without the driver’s input.

Of course, the bottom line for a hybrid is gas mileage. The RX 400h is rated for 31 mpg during city driving, or about twice that of a similar-sized, gas-only sport-ute. On the highway, the hybrid gets 27 mpg. Most of the fuel savings comes when the electric engine takes over for its gas buddy, such as when the vehicle is stopped or is driven at low speeds or in stop-and-go traffic. The battery, which sits under the rear seat, recharges when the sport-ute is coasting or the brakes are applied.

Even the all-wheel-drive system employs an innovative electrical system.

That just leaves one question – if an auto manufacturer can build a guilt-free SUV, why can’t I get calorie-free desserts? Hmm?

What Is It?: The 2006 RX 400h is a gas-and-electric hybrid-powered luxury SUV from Lexus. Available in a single trim with all-wheel-drive, the newest of the hybrids retails for just over $48K, over $10K more than the gasoline model. Expect to be on a waiting list for these babies.

Gadget Rating: 9 out of 10. Lexus sweetens the pot by shifting approximately $6K worth of features offered as options on the RX 330 to the standard side of the ledger for the hybrid version. The only options left are the heated seats, audio upgrade and DVD entertainment system.

Favorite Feature: Illuminated front cupholders.

Cheat Sheet: Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota.

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