The 2011 Lexus RX 450h is one of the currently available hybrid SUVs. If we want to be more precise it is a Hybrid Crossover SUV. That means that it is built on top of the chassis of a car and not a truck like traditional Sport Utility Vehicles. This has its pros and its cons, the basic advantage is that it offers a more car like ride and the main disadvantage is that it doesn’t have the off-road and towing capabilities of an SUV.
According to most reviewers the RX 450h is one of the top picks in this still small but growing category. It is available in FWD and AWD versions and is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine. Additionally, the Front Wheel Drive version has two electric motors, while the All Wheel Drive version has three electric motors. The overall power produced reaches 260 hp. One of the features that a lot of the car reviewers liked is the continuously variable transmission that it uses.
The reason behind buying a hybrid vehicle is always the better fuel efficiency. It doesn’t really matter if your motives are financial or environmental, you simply expect good gas mileage. The 2011 Lexus RX 450h won’t disappoint you, it has an estimated EPA fuel efficiency of 32city/28highway (FWD model) and 30city/28highway (AWD model) making one of the most fuel efficient crossover SUVs on the market.
The RX450h has only two rows of seats and can seat up to 5 passengers. Its interior has received lots of praise from the automotive press. The reason? Simple, excellent materials and build quality and lots of hi-tech features that ensure an enjoyable ride.
Some of the standard features include, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, independent front strut suspension with anti-roll bar, driver memory seat, keyless entry, cruise control, power tilting/telescoping steering wheel, 8 way power driver and front row passenger seat, wood trim on center console, satellite radio and a sound system with 9 speakers.
Some of the available features of the optional packages are, leather upholstery, 12 speaker audio system, sunroof, LED headlights, 19′ wheels, navigation system and much more.
As far as safety is concerned, the RX 450h was awarded 4 stars (overall) in the latest and more strenuous NHTSA tests. Standard safety features include 4-wheel ABS with emergency braking assist, traction and stability control, front and rear seat head airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and tire pressure monitoring.
Finally, the starting MSRP for this hybrid crossover is $44,735.
