From behind the wheel, technological trickery abounds. If you like gadget and geegaws you will not be disappointed with the RX 400h. Starting and stopping the hybrid powertrain as well as activating accessory power is accomplished by depressing the Power button to the right of the steering wheel. Gear selection is via a lever in the center console and even though the RX uses a continuously variable transmission it is possible to "shift" through imaginary gears by selecting the S mode. The steering wheel has controls for the audio system and hands-free phone operation as well as a toggle switch that operates a multi-function display with readouts for tire pressure, battery charge, and fuel range. The toggle switch also allows the driver to choose parking assist (if equipped), EV mode, ECO mode and a Hybrid Snow mode that assists with traction on slick surfaces.
My test vehicle was further equipped with the Lexus center-console mounted "Remote Touch" system which allows you to control navigation, HVAC, phone and more with a joystick and buttons. Its operation is fairly intuitive and the controls feel first rate. Other available high-tech toys include a heads-up display, adaptive cruise control, a Pre-Collision System that uses radar technology to recognize a possible frontal collision, then ready the brakes and retract the driver's and front passenger's seat-belt, and an intelligent Adaptive Front-lighting System with HID low- and high-beam headlamps that aims the headlights in the direction the vehicle is turning. Out back, the 60/40 rear seat folds to accommodate 80-cu.ft. of cargo or 40 cu.ft. with the seat back upright. The door has a power down function that allows you to lower the cargo hatch with the press of a button. While Lexus owners probably won't subject their RX 450hs to a lot of heavy lifting, the vehicle has a 825-pound load capacity and a 3,500-pound towing capacity with the optional towing package.
RX: A Perscription For What's Ailing SUVs
Just a few years ago it wouldn't have been possible to wring 29-plus mpg out of an all-wheel-drive sport utility -- much less one with almost 300hp. At a price approaching $50,000 the Lexus RX 450h is out of reach for many consumers, but its technology is sure to trickle down to less expensive vehicles in years to come. And if you doubt that electric motor assist is going to play an integral role in the future of internal combustion vehicles, the smooth operation of the RX 450h's hybrid system would make a believer out of you.