2010 Lexus RX 450h Base

Making its debut for 2010 as a replacement for the RX 400h, the five-passenger 2010 Lexus RX 450h luxury utility vehicle comes equipped with an updated Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric-drive motor. Working together, the gas engine and electric motor generate 295 hp, an increase of 27 hp over the previous year's hybrid powerplant. The engine links to an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). New hybrid-related systems for 2010 include an exhaust heat recovery system, which reduces engine warm-up time, and a new cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system, which helps improve fuel economy. The Hybrid Drive system pushes the 2010 RX 450h from 0-60 in 7.4 seconds, and posts fuel economy numbers of 30/28 mpg.

Lexus also updated the RX 450h's exterior, which now displays an inverted trapezoid grille, a unique front bumper, angled blue-tinted headlights, blue-tinted taillights, and a sharply designed shoulder line. Inside, such features as leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood trim, Bluetooth, and a nine-speaker audio system with a 6-CD changer come standard. The front seats feature 10-way power-adjustment, while the rear seats recline and slide to maximize rear legroom or cargo space. Standard safety- and performance-related features include 10 airbags, stability control, antilock brakes, hill assist control, and traction control. When equipped with an optional Towing Package, the RX 450h can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The front-wheel-drive 2010 RX 450h rides on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

By R. Feeman