Lexus RX 450h approved for towing: The complete lifestyle vechile
24 March 2011
The Lexus RX 450h uses advanced full hybrid technology that delivers an unprecedented combination of fuel economy, low emissions and performance, well beyond the scope of any of its segment rivals. These elements allow the PERFORMANCEHYBRID Lexus SUV to compete with petrol V8 and turbodiesel rivals in the segment. The RX’s Lexus Hybrid Drive technology is also very well suited to towing thanks to the enormous torque benefits of the two electric motors. Maximum torque in electric motors is available from the moment the motor turns.
“The advantages of full hybrid technology are not widely understood by consumers yet. While hybrid does naturally offer environmental gains, there are many other benefits to the technology. In full hybrid guise, the RX draws power from up to three sources resulting in impressive power and torque delivery, a feature that makes the RX 450h the ideal vehicle for towing,” adds Brian Hastie, General Manager of Lexus South Africa.
While the hybrid RX has been towing in international markets since launch, South Africa’s unique environmental conditions prompted Lexus to act cautiously.
“South Africa’s hot and dusty climate was an unknown variable and we decided to conduct extensive testing and research prior to approval to ensure that there would be no adverse or long term effects for owners of the RX 450h. In fact the hybrid SUV is perfectly suited to the application,” explains Hastie.
Lexus Hybrid Drive is a full hybrid system that combines a highly efficient petrol engine with two powerful electric motors. As a full hybrid the RX can operate on its electric motors or petrol engine alone, or with a combination of both. A second, rear-mounted electric motor provides an intelligent four-wheel drive capability.
This results in a total system output of 220kW, but it is the torque that makes the RX 450h stand apart from its rivals. The front and rear motors deliver a maximum torque of 335Nm and 139Nm from standstill respectively in addition to the 317Nm from the petrol V6. These characteristics ensure great towing characteristics and formidable overtaking performance as the torque is instantly available.
Fuel efficiency is also in the RX 450h’s favour. Despite enjoying a zero to 100km/h acceleration time of 7.8 seconds, it also achieves a lowly 6.3l/100km combined cycle fuel consumption while emitting just 148g/km of CO2 . The RX 450h’s class-leading carbon emissions is commendable, but importantly it also enjoys the benefit of not emitting harmful NOx emissions and dirty particulates associated with diesel powered vehicles. Simply, Lexus’ hybrid SUV therefore attracts a similar environmental tax to that of a small 1600 hatchback, while offering similar levels of fuel economy.
Lexus offers a detachable tow bar as an accessory for the R X 450h. The tow bar can be fitted at any Lexus dealership nationwide and features a removable ball that can be easily concealed when not in use. While roof rails were previously available only on LXE models they are now also available on XE derivates and can be used for transporting a variety of recreational equipment.
As with all Lexus models, the RX 450h is backed by a comprehensive four-year/100 000km full maintenance plan. The Lexus Hybrid Drive battery is also covered by the four-year/100 000km manufacturer’s warranty in line with all other vehicle components but has a life expectancy of at least 10 years. Should the high voltage battery need replacing, Lexus will ensure that it is disposed of in a manner that will not have any harmful effects on the environment.
For more information or to arrange a driving experience, visit www.lexus.co.za or call 08611 LEXUS