Toyota unveiled today at the Los Angeles Auto Show the Lexus RX 450h and the Lexus RX 350. The Lexus RX 450h is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle and outputs 295 hp. This means the Lexus RX 450h outputs 27 hp more than the current generation RX hybrid.
The Lexus RX 450h features a front-wheel hybrid drive system or an electronically driven, part-time AWD hybrid drive system.
The Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that outputs 275 hp and is coupled with electrically controlled, sequential-shift six-speed transaxle. The all-wheel-drive system of the Lexus RX 350 will feature an Active Torque Control AWD system.
Lexus Press release (US):
Los Angeles, CA - Lexus unveiled the all-new, next generation RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid at a press conference today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicle that pioneered the car-based luxury utility vehicle segment when it launched in 1998, is completely redesigned and will continue to set new benchmarks in areas that have made it the best-selling luxury utility vehicle: innovation, styling, performance, utility and comfort.
At the heart of the new RX models are two improved powertrains. Entering its second generation, the RX 450h will feature an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new, more efficient inverter, the total system output will be 295 horsepower, 27 more horsepower than the current generation RX hybrid.
Another step in the Lexus Hybrid Drive's evolution is the addition of two new systems that improve its efficiency. The first is an exhaust-heat recovery system that reduces engine warm-up
time allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. The result is an improvement in both fuel economy and emissions. The second is a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system that reduces engine pumping losses, which also helps to improve economy.
The RX 450h features a front-wheel hybrid drive or an electronically driven, part-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid drive system, which supplies the rear wheels with the optimal amount of torque as conditions demand. Unlike mechanical AWD systems that reduce fuel efficiency via added weight
and friction, the RX 450h's rear-mounted electric motor-generator allows all four wheels to perform regenerative braking, charging the hybrid battery more effectively.
The third generation RX 350 will be powered by an improved 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to an electrically controlled, sequential-shift six-speed transaxle. The all-wheel-drive version will feature an Active Torque Control AWD system that optimizes torque depending on driving conditions, resulting in improved efficiency and performance.
Both RX models feature a new, uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension that helps provide exceptional agility and control.
Its distinctive design also allows for five percent more cargo volume and easier loading. To complement the new rear suspension and provide excellent dexterity and ride comfort, the front McPherson strut geometry was optimized.
The all-new RX models possess a number of Lexus-first technologies that enhance the ownership experience. An available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system has an all-new "Remote Touch" controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic. Positioned on the center console, Remote Touch is as natural to the driver's hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback. While RX will feature voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM® satellite-radio capability (requires subscription) is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.
The spacious five-passenger interior includes a new, thoughtfully constructed "dual-zone cockpit" design. This intuitive layout helps the driver navigate the advanced interior of the new RX, which features two distinct yet integrated zones: a "display zone" and an "operation zone."
The "display zone" assists the driver via an eight-inch, navigation display that is set back in the dash for improved visibility. A white Organic LED multi-informational display ensures exceptional readability from a wide angle. An optional Heads-up Display reduces the need for excessive eye movement, and the use of high-intensity LEDs make the display bright enough to be read in direct sunlight.
The "operation zone" provides access and control to a large range of information through the available "Remote Touch" navigation controller and the steering-wheel-mounted multi-information switch.
The exterior of the all-new RX has a strong stance and powerful new body design with the goal of enhancing comfort and maneuverability. The inverted-trapezoid design in the front and the horizontally integrated rear are incorporated together via a pronounced shoulder along the RX's profile. Stylish molding around the side windows and at the base of the doors provides low-profile strength. Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels complement the exterior with a strong, sporty look, with optional 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels providing another styling cue. While it has increased in nearly every dimension, overall aerodynamic advancement was aided by a specially designed undertray, resulting in a segment-topping 0.32 coefficient of drag (Cd).
The RX 450h hybrid will have its own unique styling features, including an exclusive grille, hybrid badging including blue-trimmed Lexus logos, unique front bumper, a special 19-inch optional wheel design, blue-tinted headlamps and taillamps, and optional LED headlamps.
The new RX is available with a selection of luxury and sport option packages, which include features like Lexus' exclusive Mark Levinson® Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, dynamic radar cruise control, and a Sports Package featuring a sport-tuned suspension.
The all-new RX will offer a wide-angle side view monitor. With a camera located under the passenger side-view mirror, the driver can check hard-to-view areas on the passenger side of the vehicle by simply selecting a button on the navigation screen or the steering wheel and view the camera image on the navigation screen.
True to its heritage, the RX's active and passive safety systems continue to be among the vehicle's most impressive features. Lexus' available Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) seamlessly integrates individual systems like Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Traction Control (TRAC). It operates in a smooth proactive way via throttle, steering and braking to help prevent skids while cornering before the vehicle reaches its operating limits on slippery roads or other challenging conditions.
The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) relies on millimeter-wave radar technology to recognize a possible frontal collision and primes the brake assist and retracts the driver's and front passenger's seat-belt in anticipation of the crash. An intelligent Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) is available with HID low- and high-beam headlamps on both models, while the RX 450h also offers the AFS with LED low-beam and Halogen high-beam headlamps. Both anticipate the vehicle's location based on vehicle speed and steering angle, swiveling the front headlamps into the turn. An optional new automatic high-beam system detects light from oncoming vehicles, preceding vehicles or ambient sources and automatically switches from high to low beams.
Passive safety features include a class-leading 10 standard airbags on the new RX, including dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags (including the Lexus exclusive twin-chamber front-passenger airbag), driver and front-passenger knee airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, and side-curtain airbags. It is also equipped with Lexus' front-seat active headrests, designed to help reduce a possible whiplash injury when in certain lower speed collisions from the rear.
The all-new 2010 RX 350 will go on sale next February, while the 2010 RX 450h will reach dealerships nationwide in the spring.
Lexus Press Release (AU):
Lexus has today unveiled the next-generation of its RX SUV models at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.
The new models are the double overhead cam (DOHC) V6 RX 350 and a hybrid RX 450h.
The two models have been redesigned and restyled.
Both models will go on sale in Australia -RX 350 will be available in the first quarter of 2009 and RX 450h mid-year.
The RX range has been fitted with redesigned engines and suspension, and features significant safety improvements.
Lexus claims benchmark improvements in innovation, safety, performance, comfort and efficiency.
In a Lexus first, the RX 450h is powered by a new, highly efficient 3.5-litre V6 Atkinson-cycle engine, replacing the 3.3 litre V6 in the current RX 400h.
Total power output from the engine and electric motor is expected to be 220kW*, 20kW more than the current model.
The RX 350's petrol V6 engine has also been improved, developing 204kW*.
It is mated to an electronically controlled, sequential-shift six-speed transmission, replacing the five-speed automatic of the previous model.
Lexus has made major improvements in its Lexus Hybrid Drive System.
An exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm up time, allowing the petrol motor to be switched off earlier, more often and for longer periods to improve fuel economy and emission control
A cooled exhaust gas recirculation system reduces engine pumping losses to improve economy.
RX 350 and RX 450h feature different all-wheel drive (AWD) systems.
RX 450h uses an AWD Hybrid Drive System which supplies the rear wheels with optimum torque.
The RX 450h's rear mounted electric motor generator allows all four wheel wheels to perform regenerative braking, charging the hybrid battery more effectively.
RX 350 features an Active Torque Control system, which optimises torque depending on driving conditions.
New double wishbone rear suspension is a feature of both models - increasing agility and stability.
The design also allows for an increase in cargo space of 22 litres, while allowing for even easier loading.
The front-end's MacPherson strut geometry has been revised.
The new body styling claims improvements in comfort, manoeuvrability and fuel economy.
A new undertray design contributes to a class -leading aerodynamic drag figure of 0.32Cd.
Lexus has made big advances in cabin ergonomics and operator safety systems.
A newly designed wide-angle side view monitor system has a camera located under the passenger-side rear view mirror^ on selected models.
The driver can check areas by simply selecting a button on the steering wheel.
The navigation system is a next-generation improvement.
A world-first white organic LED multi-informational display ensures exceptional readability from a wide angle.
Selected RX models will feature new heads-up display which reduces the need for excessive eye movement.
A new Lexus Remote Touch navigation controller and a steering wheel-mounted multi-informational switch improve driver on-road attentiveness.
The Lexus Remote Touch navigation system is described as a breakthrough in improving interaction between the driver and the vehicle and uses adjustable "Haptic" feedback to assist the driver with selecting the appropriate function.
All models carry ten standard SRS airbags, including the Lexus exclusive twin-chamber front passenger airbag, and driver and front passenger knee air bags.
Vehicles in the RX range will be available with Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM), Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Intelligent Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS).
RX 350 is fitted with 18-inch aluminium-alloy wheels, while 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels will also be available on certain models.
RX450h will have its own styling features, including optional 19-inch wheels, an exclusive grille and front bumper, blue-trimmed Lexus hybrid logos, blue tinted tail lamps and AFS LED headlamps.
Selected new models will feature exclusive Mark Levinson Surround Sound and dynamic radar cruise control.
Lexus Australia chief executive John Roca said the new RX range would build on the range's strong technology reputation.
"The RX was the first vehicle to offer reversing cameras as standard in Australia, and the RX 400h was the first hybrid SUV anywhere in the world," Mr Roca said.
"The all-new RX debuts a range of innovations to simplify the driver's and passenger's interaction with the vehicle, and improve safety.
"Whether it is the Lexus Remote Touch system, or the all-new hybrid driveline, the next-generation RX leads the luxury SUV market on innovation, efficiency, comfort and safety."
Lexus Press Release (UK):
Lexus will take its advanced hybrid power technology to a higher level in 2009 with the launch of the new RX 450h. The luxury all-wheel drive model made its world debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, ahead of going on sale in Europe next summer.
In the UK the new-generation RX will be an all-hybrid range, with the RX 450h replacing both the current RX 400h hybrid and RX 350 petrol engine models. Lexus was the first and remains the only manufacturer to offer hybrid models in the segment in Europe, now presenting its second generation model before its rivals manage to bring their first hybrid contenders to the showroom.
Further details about the new Lexus RX 450h will be announced early next year.
The current RX 400h already addresses the prime concerns of today’s motorists, applying advanced technology to deliver high performance and whisper quiet refinement, combined with excellent fuel and emissions efficiency.
Priced from £36,273 and available from Lexus Centres across the UK, the RX 400h gives great fuel consumption (34.9mpg combined cycle) and carbon dioxide emissions (192g/km) that earn a low tax rating. It all adds up to make the RX 400h as cost efficient to own and run as a smaller family car.
