LEXUS Rx 400h Hybrid/TOYOTA Hybrid AWD - not really

[go high fast]

does anyone have any experience with the Lexus (i imagine the Toyota Hi Lander system is the same) Hybrid AWD system??

If I understand correctly the only power to the rear wheels is from the battery/electric motor and that there is NO mechanical or electronic transfer of engine power to the rear wheels? I also understand that the rear wheel drive system is air cooled and can be burned up if driving in slow, slippery, icy, snowie conditions as slow speeds. WTF??

So basically it is a front wheel drive only with the electric motor providing some power to the rear.

Anybody have any experience or comments on this??

 

[Mafesto]

Sounds icky.

 

[Freak]

gas is going to 99 cents a gallon weehee!!!

 

[oonighttrain]

does anyone have any experience with the Lexus (i imagine the Toyota Hi Lander system is the same) Hybrid AWD system??

If I understand correctly the only power to the rear wheels is from the battery/electric motor and that there is NO mechanical or electronic transfer of engine power to the rear wheels? I also understand that the rear wheel drive system is air cooled and can be burned up if driving in slow, slippery, icy, snowie conditions as slow speeds. WTF??

So basically it is a front wheel drive only with the electric motor providing some power to the rear.

Anybody have any experience or comments on this??

i should know this considering i sold lexus' for 3 years..
the electric motors power the vehicle at very slow speeds, at idle or provides some of the power at a leisurely cruise.. the gas engine kicks in anytime you accelerate or get on it ever so slightly.. even as a salesman i would steer people toward the gas version.. you can buy alot of has for the price difference.. and, if you do your research, you will see that the hybrid really doesnt get that much better fuel economy.. i believe the hybrid is 31/27?? which is b.s., you will NEVER get 31 in town with it unless you are idling all day.. the gas version is like 17/27 i think.. save the $, get the regular version..

http://www.lexus.co.uk/range/rx/hybrid-technology/how-hybrid-works/index.aspx