Lexus Introduces RX 400h, the World's First Luxury Hybrid SUV

A high-strength cabin design and comprehensive supplemental restraint system are designed to help provide a high level of crash energy management for the occupants. The Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) include advanced front airbags for the driver and passenger, a knee airbag for the driver and front seat-mounted side airbags that are designed to help protect the torso, abdomen and pelvis. The technology behind the front airbags takes into account several factors, such as crash severity, passenger weight and driver seat position on the seat track.

Side curtain airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy management for the front and rear seat occupants. A rollover sensor signals the side curtain airbags to inflate if a predetermined threshold of vehicle tip-up is detected.

The RX 400h includes the safety of several visibility-enhancing technologies. The windshield and front side windows feature a water-repellant surface that helps to bead rainwater. A rear back-up camera, part of the available navigation package, is mounted near the top of the license plate surround and projects a color image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

Rain-sensing windshield wipers and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights are expected in this segment, but Lexus goes further with the standard Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) that helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it. Lexus Luxury and Impressive Utility

The RX 400h provides virtually the same interior versatility as the RX 330. The large rear cargo capacity of approximately 38 cu. ft. expands to nearly 84 cu. ft. with the rear seatbacks folded down.

The rear seatbacks feature a versatile 40/20/40 split design, and the seat offers both sliding and reclining adjustments. An automatic-retracting tonneau cover adds a measure of security and convenience to the cargo area.

Lexus craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Dual-zone automatic climate control and a 10-way power front driver seat with memory (eight-way power for the passenger seat) highlight the front cabin.

The three-spoke steering wheel features easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer and multi-information display in the speedometer. It also adds a voice control switch for the available navigation system. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated digital compass is standard, and both exterior mirrors are auto-dimming and heated.

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