Luxury SUV: Lexus RX450h

Lexus's new SUV offers comfort and refinement. Gone is its symmetrical old dashboard, it has been replaced by a wave-like centre console.

The new Lexus RX 450h arrives at an interesting time - Lexus turns 20 this year, and the American car market, which has been critical to the commercial success of the RX, is running on empty.

Amidst all of the uncertainty and unpredicatability of the car market, the Lexus RX450h has been redesigned in a predictable mannner. The shape is sleeker and the sheet-metal details are sharper, but it is still familiar to RX drivers. The only difference is that the tailgate wiper is concealed under the rear spoiler.

Also, the old dashboard's straightforward, symmetrical layout is no more, replaced by striking assymterical design with a wave-like centre console.

Another highlight is the Remote Touch, a first for Lexus. It consolidates and controls various onboard functions, including navigation, entertainment and vehicle set-up and it employs an unusual mix of mouse and joystick operations.

The actual user interface, however, could be slicker. Apart from Remote Touch, the new interior offers plenty of amenities, including keyless entry with push-button start, acres of factory-sewn leather, powerful dual-zone air-conditioning and electric everything, from the front seats to the rear hatch.

The boot is even bigger than before and comes with well-placed quick-release levers for the versatile split-fold back seat. There are also more storage points for odds and ends.

An array of airbags is, of course, standard fare in this car.

Behind the wheel, immediately noticeable are the improved ergonomics, such as the superior support and adjustability of the driver's seat, the even more commanding outward visibility and the rationalised placement of the control cluster for the power mirrors.

At the same time, all the switchgear feels tighter than before and all the cabin materials are better made.

The handling of this sports-utility vehicle continues to be more utility than sports. But there is now at least a semblance of feel and feedback through the steering, which helms a chassis that responds more positively to major directional changes than the previous model.

The RX450h's performance is more significantly improved. Its initial pick-up and mid-range acceleration are even punchier than the outgoing RX400h, making the RX450h a bit of a green monster on the road.

Yet it manages to deliver over 10 percent better mileage than its predecessor. This translates to nearly 14kn per litre, which is very good going for a well-equipped SUV with the works.

Lexus engineers have eliminated the squashy brake feel of the regenerative system that afflicted the RX400h. They have also made the fuel-saving stop-start fucntion less noticeable now.

Whether a clever hybrid or a conventional petrol model, the new Lexus RX is certainly a capable and comfortable ride for upmarket suburbanites.

Lexus RX450h Facts:
Engine: 3456cc 24-valve V6, plus 123kW front motor and 50kW rear motor.
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission.
Power: 295bhp at 6200rpm.
Torque: 334Nm at 4700rpm.
0-100kmh: 7.4 seconds.
Fuel consumption: 7.2 litres/100km (city-highway).