![]() |
Direct4 debuted with the LF-Z Electric ev concept car, a core electric technology that realizes Lexus' driving signature. Direct4 integrates powertrain, steering, suspension, brakes, etc. based on motor control technology cultivated in hybrids. As a result, it becomes a new technology to control the driving force according to the driving scene. It transmits the power of the motor instantly to all four wheels, and turns this power into a driving force, allowing instantaneous operation according to driving conditions and the driver's intentions. Direct4 precisely controls the transmission of driving torque from the front and rear electric motors and braking force to all four wheels. By automatically adjusting the balance between front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive, the system realizes a driving sensation tailored to the driver's intentions. The system focuses on optimal drive force distribution, laying out "e-axles" with high tor que electric motors and transaxles at the front and rear. The motor is connected directly to the wheel by a single drive shaft, so it operates without time lag. According to Lexus, direct4 is intuitive and responsive, telling the driver the real feeling of being fully connected to the vehicle. In addition, it enables powerful and linear acceleration and exhilarating cornering. At the same time, direct4 is designed with an emphasis on quietness and comfort that is true to Lexus DNA. |
Officially previewed as part of the Toyota and Lexus annual Kenshiki forum, it is based on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform |
The RZ will have fully variable four-wheel drive and steer-by-wire technology |
Preview images indicate that the styling will be inspired by the radical LF-Z Electrified concept |
It is likely to adopt recognisably SUV-like proportions but, like its Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra siblings |
the RX 350’s 3.5-liter V6 has been replaced by a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It produces 275 hp (205 kW / 279 PS) and 317 lb-ft (429 Nm) of torque, which is a decrease of 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS) but a gain of 50 lb-ft (68 Nm) compared to the outgoing model. The engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which can be paired to either front- or all-wheel drive. Lexus says the latter variant will be able to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 7.2 seconds, 0.7 seconds faster than its predecessor. |
With gas prices hovering around all-time highs, many customers will probably want to opt for the 2023 RX 350h which replaces the previous 450h. It features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired to a fourth-generation hybrid system and a standard all-wheel drive system. Power output takes a major hit as the 2023 RX 350h is rated at 246 hp (183 kW / 249 PS) and 233 lb-ft (316 Nm) of torque, which pales in comparison to the 308 hp (230 kW / 312 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque in the old RX 450h. However, Lexus says the new model is actually faster as the dash to 60 mph (96 km/h) will take 7.4 seconds instead of 7.9 seconds. |
hybrids are mainly about fuel efficiency and this is where the RX 350h excels. Lexus believes the model will have a combined fuel economy rating of 33 mpg, or 3 mpg better than its predecessor. |
the variant raising the most eyebrows is the new RX 500h F Sport Performance. It’s a performance-oriented hybrid that has a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a rear eAxle with a “high output electric motor” that promises to provide “improved performance and quick acceleration.” This setup enables the all-wheel drive crossover to produce 367 hp (274 kW / 372 PS) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque, which is enough to smack the grin right off the Acura MDX Type S’ face. The good news doesn’t end there as the RX 500h F Sport Performance runs from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.9 seconds and has a combined estimated fuel economy rating of 26 mpg, which is 7 mpg more than the Acura. Besides the powerful hybrid system, the RX 500h F Sport Performance has a sportier exterior with unique bumpers, a mesh grille, and more aggressive air intakes. They’re joined by black accents, additional body color components, and six-piston brake calipers. The sporty styling continues in the cabin with a perforated leather steering wheel that features paddle shifters. Drivers will also find aluminum pedals, sue |
All times are GMT +5.5. The time now is 17:01. |