The hybrid version of the vehicle,
the RX 450h, has a 259-hp 3.5-
liter DOHC, direct-injected V6;
with the hybrid motors, the total
system output is 308 hp. Because
this is a vehicle that ofers AWD,
in addition to the E-CVT transaxle
in the front of the vehicle with
two motor generators, there is a
unit available, a rear transaxle
with an electric drive motor that
provides a maximum output of 67
hp. There is a nickel-metal hydride
battery pack that is mounted
under the rear seat.
The 2016 RX is available with
a safety system that includes
q One trim level that's available for both the 350 and 450h is F Sport. In
addition to what is clearly an interior that speaks of speed, the package includes
adaptive variable suspension, which controls the shock absorber damping force
at all four wheels depending on the road and driving conditions. The RX 350 F
Sport also ofers "G AI-shift," which collects G-forces when going into a corner.
This information is used to calculate and then select the appropriate gear for the
transmission (e.g., downshift); the gear is held for acceleration out of the corner.
AD&P; > December 2015 > FEATURE > 2016 Lexus RX: Creating the Fourth Generation > Gary S. Vasilash
66