Reader’s Question:

Is there an SUV from Lexus that has hybrid technology in it? I’d love to drive one here in Texas

Jonas

Houston, TX

Jonas, the lowdown on hybrids: less fuel, more miles, save the planet. Don’t you just love it? And the good thing is automobile companies won’t stop with the research to come up with new technology. One thing is clear, though, going green won’t be just a fad for them. So let’s talk about a hybrid that’s more than a car, an SUV from Lexus, the RX 400 hybrid (RX 400h). How many horses do we have in this hybrid? How much load can it carry? How about space and safety? Let’s tackle it point by point before you go your favorite Texas Lexus dealer.

Okay, like any hybrid, as the name implies, the Lexus RX 400h does not run solely on an electric motor. To assist in providing sudden power needs, this Lexus has a 3.3 Liter 24-valve VVTi V6 engine. The electric motor takes over from the gas engine when the power demands are low. While running, the electric motor draws power from the Nickel Metal Hydride battery found under the trunk of the RX. These batteries charge up using a technology called regenerative braking. The combination of this power system of electric and gas-power engines produce about 268 horsepower, enough for the Lexus to tow 3,500 lbs and do about 25 miles per gallon in terms of combined fuel economy.

In terms of space, the car carries about 5 people comfortably. For cargo, the rear seats can be reconfigured to accommodate bigger loads. As for safety, since this SUV can still hit 60 mph in just 7 seconds, Lexus engineers incorporated, together with seat belts & airbags, side-impact reinforcement and impact energy redistribution into the RX 400h. This not only makes the RX 400h a fast, powerful and green car, but also a very safe car.

Tags: car, car dealers, Houston Dealer, Lexus

Reader’s Question:

I’ve set my sights on acquiring a Lexus as a second car. Now, before I go to one of the dealers here Texas, I’d like to find out more about the Lexus GS.

Jules

Houston, TX

Hey there, Jules. Good show! A Lexus will definitely bring or add some more pizzazz in your garage. A Lexus brings a certain air of style and elegance that is backed up by power under the hood. At least, that’s how I would describe the GS cars from Lexus. Now, on to the good part, shall we? What makes this car go vroom and zoom?

The GS series comes in three trims that differ mainly on the types of engine that is mounted on it. Let’s start with the GS 350 AWD and GS 350 RWD. Main difference between the two is the drive systems on them. As the name implies, AWD is all-wheel while RWD is rear-wheel drive. Both have six-speed sequential automatic transmission to move these fast machines using their powerful engines. These two are powered by a 3.5 Liter V6 engine that can do about 303 hp at 6,200 hp. These two still go 0 to 60 under 5.9 seconds. If that wasn’t great enough, you should look at the GS 460 RWD. Under the 460 RWD’s hood you’ll find a 4.6 Liter V8 with 8 –speed sequential automatic transmission. This car can rev up to 342 he at 6,200 rpm and this GS clocks 5.4 seconds on a 0 to 60 mph sprint. Vroom and zoom in Texas, Jules!

Tags: car, car dealers, Honda Dealership, Lexus

Reader’s Question:

I am especially interested in getting a Lexus hybrid model here in Houston, Texas as I know that it can save me some money in the long run. What other features does the Lexus RX 400h model boast of?

Kyle

Houston, TX

The Lexus RX 400h was launched two years ago as the world’s original hybrid-powered luxury crossover sports utility vehicle. It’s an energy-efficient, environment friendly edition of its well-known counterpart, the Lexus RX 350. They have similar lustrous design that is expected from Lexus; however, the Lexus RX 400h is a fuel/electric powered hybrid crossover sports utility vehicle. This particular model brags off its outstanding fuel economy, improved horsepower and less emission. Not to mention that purchasing a hybrid vehicle in Houston, Texas also has tax benefits as you may be entitled for up to $3,000 in tax reimbursement.

If you are mindful of our environment, the Lexus RX 400h is perfect for you as it has been approved as a Super Ultra-Low Emissions Automobile, with 70 percent less smog-forming emissions than latest vehicle models. Lexus has brilliantly blended the electric and fuel-powered motors by making use of electric-controlled, continuously variable transmission for a pleasant relaxing travel. The Lexus RX 400h also boasts its power front and back row seating, dual zone climate control and air filtration system.

Tags: car, car review, Houston dealer, Lexus dealer

Reader’s Question:

Hello, I know that Lexus already established its name as a car maker to be reckoned with. Silly me, I haven’t really gotten to know what Lexus models are out there for someone like me. I think of myself as someone who likes to live fast. I’d definitely love to zip around Houston, Texas in one. Care to recommend a Lexus model for me?

Stan

Houston, TX

Lets deal with, “someone who likes to live fast” first. Okay, let’s take it literally at this point. So speed gives you a “high.” And what can Lexus offer to someone like you? I figured, at the least, that you’d probably like to look at what’s under the hood, horses and all. I think a choice from the 2009 Lexus sedans can’t go wrong, but that’s me. We can always check out a sportier coupe. But do check out what I wrote down for you.

Let’s start with Lexus sedan basics. You can choose from the IS, ES, GS and LS models. How do they differ, you ask? Let’s check the horses and count the seconds. For the 2009 IS, you can get about 306 hp from a 3.5 Liter V6 and sprint to 60 miles per hour in about 5.6 seconds. Quick enough, ain’t it? The 2009 ES will give you 272 horses from its 3.5 Liter V6 and will take you to 60 mph in 6.8. The GS and LS, with their powerful V8s, 5.4 seconds to hit 60 mph. Style-wise, I’m going for the IS. I think it’ll be enough to give you that sporty feeling without getting that “I’m driving a fast big box” sensation. Not bad for an entry level sedan, right?

Hope that helped you out there in Houston, Texas.

Tags: Honda Dealership, Lexus