Another interesting tidbit per tflcar.com - the hybrid model has same trunk capacity as gas models (15.1 cubic feet) since batteries go under the rear seats in the 2018 model

 

There's a pic back here:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/car...ml#post9742577

 

Somehow, I doubt that the 2018 NXh will have this new hybrid drivetrain. Did Lexus announce any drivetrain changes coming with the 2018 facelift? This is a brand-new 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine which would mean bigger changes (that Toyota does not usually make for a mid-model facelift) than just some tweaking.

But I have no doubt that the 2019 Avalon and ES will have the new hybrid drivetrain and the new V6.

 

Thanks I had not seen those pics.

In related news looks like the new Accord is going to drop the V6 for a variation of the 2.0 T found in the new Civic Type R. It will interesting to see how the new naturally aspirated camry engines compare against turbocharged engines in the Accord.

 

Toyota has mastered the naturally aspirated V6 I highly doubt any turbo will compete overall.

 

Probably not but one could hope. If you remember 2006/2007 was a big change for 300/430/ >> 350/460, despite being one year into the new body styles. Anyway a few more ponies would be welcome to the NXh. I believe it was tuned lower to 194 total system power for better torque on the NX vs the 200 total system power on the ESh.

 

This is what blows my mind about people who swear by Toyota hybrids. Toyota and Lexus hybrids have to be one of the worst buys ever.

1. Toyota and Lexus Camry hybrid, Lexus CT, Lexus ES all use de-tuned gas versions of the engines that are normally offered in other models. For example, the Camry engine loses about 20 hp with the hybrid option. The CT is rated at just 98 horses. (I understand it does add electric motors but I will get to that)

2. None of the Toyota or Lexus hybrid models add any performance (aside from MPG) advantage over the gas version.

3. Yes you get electric motors. But that regular gas engine will move you quicker for less $$$$$

4. You must pay a premium for less power, less 0-60 performance, just to get more MPG...MAKES NO SENSE

5. Most Toyota and Lexus hybrids do not add dual variable valve timing...they just offer no dual. (I wonder why?)


I just cannot understand why anyone would pay extra to have less performance. I could understand pay extra to have more power, more performance and more MPG. I believe Lexus RXh does this objective. I learned that my lesson with my CT, I paid close to $40K to go slow as hell. This is just makes no sense.

 

You're right Jill.
They should at least keep the performance on par with the regular gasoline models, while improving mileage, and ensure that they can justify the added price.

The new firm seats is a bit of a worry; wonder if the suspension is too firm too.
Akio trying too hard to change the formula to attract younger buyers.

 

This is just flat out wrong.

 

Yes I agree with you Jill. Besides MPG and 'green' image, I don't see why one would pay more for less performance...

 

Only the high end Lexiis from the GS450h onwards provide extra performance.

 

Sorry, was just referring to cars like the CT, or ES300h and Camry. I understand that the RX and Highlander improve on the performance.
I am glad you both agree. Thanks

If they would just of used the regular rated gas engine, add in the hybrid performance, then I can understand and justify it. I don't get why the ES could not marry the 3.5 and hybrid motor. The car would not lose any MPG compared to the regular 3.5

 

It depends on the buyer. I know plenty of people who are happy to pay more for less performance to get higher fuel economy. I wouldn't, but clearly people do.

 

I don't think there is much difference at all between a 350 or 450h, maybe .1 sec, same with the last gen, they accelerated about the same and the last gen was tuned to be quicker but after a couple of runs or aggressive driving the performance of the hybrids falls off heavily and then there is the colossal cost of the battery if it dies and it has happened on several hybrid models.

 

When the original RXh came out, I think it was 3.3 vs 3.3 + hybrid so the performance advantage was staggering in favor of the hybrid. Now it does seem kind of pointless.