Lexus RX Hybrid: 1st Generation

Auto Express compared the 2010 Lexus RX 450h to the BMW X5 30d SE to see which SUV is the better buy:

…which car more successfully mixes eco-friendly credentials with rugged versatility and luxury?

There’s no denying the X5 still rules the roost for image and driving dynamics. Plus, the big boot and seven-seat potential make it a practical proposition. Yet the latest Lexus is a huge improvement over its predecessor.

The RXh trounced the X5 in fuel efficiency, delivering 44.8 mpg compared to the diesel’s 34.4 mpg (British). Along with its “refinement, sophistication and impressive emissions”, the Lexus SUV took first place in the comparison.

[Source: Auto Express]

For the ninth consecutive year, Lexus has topped the J.D. Power & What Car? UK Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study:

In the manufacturer rankings, Lexus ranks highest for a ninth consecutive year, receiving a customer satisfaction score of 833. Lexus performs particularly well in two of four key measures: service satisfaction and vehicle appeal. Rounding out the top five nameplates are Honda (817), Mercedes-Benz (808), Škoda and Toyota (805 each).

The fact that Lexus has managed to take this award every year since they were eligible to win is exceptional—a true accomplishment. What’s more, the Lexus RX was named the top vehicle in the survey, with the IS coming in fourth.

Source: What Car? (Thanks Stan!)

One of the photos taken for the HS 250h press launch was this family portrait of all the Lexus hybrids together (click for larger image):

Whether it’s the angle or the arrangement, the HS 250h looks like a much better fit in the Lexus lineup. At the very least, it’s definitely easier to see the L-Finesse design cues in the new hybrid sedan.

Update: I’ve uploaded some wallpaper size versions of the photo. See above.

Autocar’s quick review of the Lexus RX 450h is very complimentary of the hybrid’s new driving experience, and contains a very interesting passage I thought worth pointing out:

And because this is the Euro-spec RX, it gets retuned suspension and a retuned power management unit that will provide better off the line acceleration but still (Lexus claims) return comparable fuel consumption.

..the handling and ride is much better. It’s calm and resolved at speed, and feels well tied down on the twisty Hungarian B-roads I tried it on – the new electronic roll bars (Lexus calls it Active Stabiliser System) help, but even without them the RX is flop free and precise, which makes it comfortable and easy to hustle through windy roads quickly. You might even enjoy yourself…

Even though it’s quite common for vehicles to have different spring/damper settings to better deal with Europe’s roads, I wonder if Lexus Europe wanted to avoid one of the North American complaints that the new RX450h is slower than the outgoing RX400h, even if it meant sacrificing fuel economy.

Update: Looks like this Euro-spec suspension might just be the optional Sports package.

[Source: Autocar]

While browsing Club Lexus for details on the 2008 Lexus RX 400h’s updates, I found this great photo by tomv, a new hybrid owner, which shows off the illuminated scuff plates:

Just to be clear, these would be visible when opening the doors. Great effect, I’m very impressed.

It wasn’t until Lexus Australia announced the changes that I realized the 2008 RX 400h has received some minor updates, most notably new front & rear lights, which look great:

Lexus also applied the hybrid blue badging, bringing it inline with the LS 600h and GS 450h, and added some new red or black wood panel accents inside as well as illuminated scuff plates. Some safety features were also added, automatically locking doors and an anti-theft intrustion detector.

A new upgraded chrome package is now available, which includes a revised chrome grille, new door handles, chrome-finish 18-inch alloy wheels, and a color-coded rear spoiler.

[Source: Lexus Australia]