Lexus RX400h Hybrid SUV To Go On Sale in the UK June 2005

When it goes on sale here on June 15, the Lexus RX400h will be one of the most extraordinary SUVs on the UK market. Although it looks very similar to the RX300, the new model has its own unique selling point in that it's a hybrid, with a 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine and two electric motors, one driving each pair of wheels.

There's a continuously variable transmission, too, and a total combined power output of 269bhp. That's enough to propel the RX400h from 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 124mph. Despite these figures, and the vehicle's considerable weight, combined fuel consumption is exceptional for the class at 34.9mpg, while CO2 emissions of 192g/km are similarly impressive. This is down to the fact that, as with other hybrids, the RX400h can operate in some conditions with the engine switched off and the electric motors providing all the drive.

There are three trim levels. The lowest, which doesn't have a name, is appropriate to the premium off-road sector and includes cruise control, multizone climate control, an eight-speaker sound system with 6-CD autochanger, rear privacy glass, High Intensity Discharge headlights and electrically adjustable front seats.

SE models get leather upholstery, automatic wiper and light activation, an electric sunroof, power-operated tailgate, electric steering column adjustment, adaptive front lighting, a 40/20/40 split rear seat, heated front seats and a memory function for the driver's seat, mirrors and steering column.

Top of the range is the SE-L model, with the Lexus Navigator sat-nav system (including Bluetooth compatibility), a rear parking monitor, an 11-speaker Mark Levinson entertainment system and a DVD player with screens in the back of the front headrests.

Prices are £35,845 for the entry model and £39,540 for the SE, both of which have Group 16 insurance, and £44,350 for the SE-L, which is in Group 17.

SOURCE: ITV Motoring

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