Let’s face it, being environmentally conscientious is more than just trendy these days. Caring about the condition of the earth and how we leave it for our children is something that hits home to us all.
There’s a level of social responsibility that really does matter. For everyone on board, going green has to be something that can entice even the biggest cynic.
Everyone already knows that hybrids are fuel efficient. So what else? How do you get people to care about driving hybrids?
Lexus has been producing their best selling, best looking RX for over over two decades now and the bottom line is, they know what they’re doing.
The 2016 RX 450H is a Lexus Hybrid. Its newly redesigned body is so boldly attractive that everyone will want to be seen driving it.
The 2016 Lexus RX 450H contributes to a better fuel economy while lowering its carbon emissions. It sacrifices nothing in quality or luxury to prove it can provide the best in technology and engineering as it’s done for 21 years now.
As a Lexus is a guaranteed elegant ride. Satisfying your urge to contribute to a greener tomorrow while riding in comfort, the 2015 Lexus RX 450H is an inevitable win for Lexus and for you.
Hybrid Powertrain
Proving that that environmentally sound doesn’t mean you have sacrifice power or fuel economy, Lexus has improved their engineering and given results.
With a focus on fuel economy and low carbon emissions, all RX’s got an update to their powertrain. The 450H will still use a 3.5L Atkinson cycle gasoline V6 alongside the two motor Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system.
When combined with an all new 8 speed automatic transmission and the electric motor generator, the engine will put out 300 horsepower. This is an increase from its current model which offers 295 horsepower.
A brand new Adaptive Variable Suspension provides better handling and smoother ride. Providing a more engaged driving experience, AVS cuts back on lean through corners, monitors shock absorbers and steering. The result is optimal handling in a range of different road conditions.
The Redesign
In an attempt to become all over more efficient, the 2016 Lexus RX450H is making a lot of changes. Having already dropped some major lbs, this year’s model is picking up extra safe technologies and a funky design.
Interior
Immediately the driver will notice a 12.3” screen offering high resolution graphics. The instrument panel has been cleaned up to present better ambience.
Premium materials are being used including Yamaha laser-cut ornamentation. There is also an optional head-up display which projects information to the driver without having to remove their eyes from the road.
It’s these extra upgrades which contribute to the overall safety of everyone in the car and on the road that make the Lexus 450H stand out as a true competitor in its class.
Having increased the wheelbase by 1.9” and the length by 4.7” the interior has consequently increased in size as well providing more leg and knee room for passengers.
Careful not to neglect the rear seat passengers, a retractable panoramic moonroof as well as heated rear seats provide extra comfort and sophistication to an often overlooked section.
There are also two 11.6” screens which are mounted on the backside of the front seat headrests that provide entertainment to the rear seat passenger, big or small.
Exterior
Now on its fourth generation, the RX450h has fully updated its appearance.
Takayuki Katsuda, chief engineer of the 2016 RX stated “Our ambition has been to make a bold and completely new statement in this segment while building on and staying true to the pioneering values of previous RX generations.”
One glance at the 2016 RX 450H and it’s clear they have done just that. Accentuating its front fascia with an oversized spindle grill and dramatically shaped LED head, tail and fog lights, the look is sophisticated and cutting edge.
It’s pointedly fierce and sharp chrome outlines are in direct contrast to the windswept roofline which not only provides more efficient aerodynamics, but also just looks strikingly cool.
Because of the execution of the blacked out C-pillars, it gives the illusion of a ‘floating roof’ which only adds to its dynamic appeal.
In an attempt to become more fuel efficient, drop some dead weight and improve power to the car, the 2016 Lexus RX 450H is dropping most of its exterior. Well, what’s it putting up instead? Aluminum.
Losing lbs.
Like a lot of vehicles hopping on the aluminum bus, the Lexus RX450H is also adopting aluminum construction. The decision to switch to aluminum was a pretty easy one to make.
Consumers are more likely to purchase fuel efficient vehicles and the lighter your vehicle, the more fuel efficient it is.
Choosing aluminum finish makes your vehicle decidedly lighter, which will boost engine performance and increase fuel efficiency. Consumers don’t want to stop buying SUV’s so why not give them what they want?
Drivers will enjoy this change because while you cannot see a difference on the exterior, they will notice an immediate difference when driving, but especially in their gas economy.
F Sports Trim
For the first time ever, the F Sport trim will be available in the 450H. For those who want to take their driving experience to the next level, the F Sport comes with a range of performance enhancing features.
While the F Sport is only available in All Wheel Drive, it is loaded with exclusive finishes and features including bold body colors, sport steering wheel and perforated leather trim.
Playing into the sportier flair are 20” alloy wheels in a graphite finish which are also exclusive to this model.
Lexus Safety System
Having always stressed the importance of safety in all their vehicles, Lexus spared no expense testing on the toughest road conditions to ensure the best protection is provided to the passengers and vehicle itself.
For the first time ever, the 2016 Lexus RX will come available with Safety Systems Plus. A new safety system, it features multiple driver’s assist programs as well as items to help avoid and mitigate collisions in a variety of situations.
Pre-collision and lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control along with a panoramic view and blind spot monitor all contribute to ensuring maximum safety.
The Lexus RX was first introduced to American audience in 1998. Lexus’ first brought it over as a compact luxury SUV crossover and since then has grown into the top selling midsize crossover from Toyota’s luxury division.
As their most popular model, the RX has used this platform to produce their hybrid. The 450H is currently the strongest selling hybrid from Lexus.
It is clear that the engineers behind the Lexus RX have put a lot of thought into the 450H. Not only are the exterior aesthetics sleek and dynamic but they juxtapose the soft quality and comfort of the interior.
Staying true to the Lexus brand is its commitment to providing the absolute best in safety features. Since 1998, Lexus has been pioneering what comfort of luxury and quality feels like when made from value and tradition.
The Lexus RX 450H has given its audience a lot to be thankful for. Show your appreciation later this year by taking this 2016 model out of a fun winter spin.
