NateJG

The clutch shown is not used to disconnect the engine - it's there to protect the driveline against sudden over torque shock - such as during a panic stop or wheel slip (and resultant traction) over ice/water.

The clutch is intended to provide a predetermined amount of slip and prevent the planetary gears (and/or other parts of the gear train) from destruction due to shock loading.

It may also protect the system during the sudden start of the ICE as it (the ICE) is jerked back to life as one passes up through the 40ish MPH point when on MG2.

WolfyLS460

400h has 0-60 time quicker than a '06-09 Range Rover Supercharged (under 7 sec, 6.6 in C&D test) and at least 1 sec faster than non-hybrid RX's. It is indeed a V6 with V8 acceleration. Mine gets 29+MPG with California 91-octane gas. I drive it like my old Prius and occasionally let loose...What a thrill ride!

I remember when the LS600h first came out people were beaching and moaning about its low MPG when in fact its electric motors were built for performance to compete with the likes of Mercedes S550 and succeeded brilliantly.

thomas1

Coming from a 1999 RX300, the 400H mileage is better in all respects. I averaged 16-17 in daily driving on the old RX300 and now consistently get 24.7 miles per gallon with the RX400h. To me that Is great considering I drive it like a hot rod. The power is incredible, a real sleeper on the skin of a gorgeous body.