New 2010 Lexus RX 450h

Oh, what a difference a year makes. That could not ring any more true for the folks at Lexus who have redesigned the interior and exterior of the RX 400h, dropped in a new engine and re-christened it the RX 450h.  Not only does the 2010 Lexus RX 450h crossover receive excellent fuel economy, but its sleek look and cutting edge technology represent the future of luxury hybrid fusion.

Lexus renamed the RX 400h because of the new gas engine.  A new 245-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is paired with a hybrid battery to produce a combined 295-horsepower.  The 2010 RX 450h is available in standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive and is mated to a six-speed CVT transmission with manual shift mode.  You can save money at the pump and be environmentally conscious, knowing that the 450h receives an impressive 30-32 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while emitting a paltry 6.1-6.3 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.

Probably the most engaging feature of the 2010 RX 450h is the intuitive voice-recognition navigation system with Heads-Up display and Remote Touch.  An eight-inch LCD screen is placed at the top of the center dash and is controlled by a mouse-like joystick on the center console.  Your speed limit and turning directions are also displayed on the windshield above the tachometer allowing you to keep your eyes on the road at all times.  When the RX 450h is in park, you can watch DVDs on the navigation screen.  When you’re in transit you can utilize the NavTraffic feature to get real-time driving conditions, find restaurants and businesses and access Bluetooth hands-free calling. 

The optional Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System features 15 speakers, 7.1-channel architecture and 330 watts of power.  Keep the kids occupied with the Dual-Screen Rear-Seat Entertainment System.  10-way driver’s and front passenger’s power seats, auxiliary iPod port, XM Radio are standard, while leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seating, USB inputs and a power rear door are optional.

When it comes to safety, the 2010 Lexus RX 450h boasts a class-leading 10-airbag system, anti-lock braking system with brake assist, active front headrests and vehicle stability system with traction control come standard.  The radar-based Pre-Collision System preemptively retracts the front seatbelts and preps the Brake Assist when it determines that a frontal collision is unavoidable.

Aside from being a fuel-efficient luxury crossover, there are simply too many exciting and groundbreaking features in the 2010 Lexus RX 450h to keep track of.