I think another 2.5K is feasible from a production and a consumer standpoint. It may mean the use of LI-ion, but those are becoming just as popular.

 

And presumably you could help keep costs lower by offering a 4 cylinder instead of 6. It may not be the most powerful model, but it would get the job done.

 

^^ meet the CT200h, 0-60 in past 10 seconds.

 

9.8 seconds, I have the brochure

 

lol Lexus is heading down a dangerous path, with the CT and HS, the brand is becoming less "premium"

 

Don't forget regular gas, <gasp>

 

Wouldn't be all that different than an RX300....oh wait yes it would, it would get much better mileage!!

IMO if Lexus is going to offer RX450h, or GS450h for that matter, an RX300h is not an unreasonable offering to go along side that even if it is slow.

 

I no longer drive in ECO mode...its a much more enjoyable drive. The only thing that bothers me is the droneof the CVT when you really push it.

 

I've done that occasionally, and it's definitely a much more "spirited" ride. I'm curious what kind of mileage you're getting "long-term" with ECO turned off.

 

I'm not sure how many of you actually own one, I do and it was one of the very 1st 2010 models. At 297 horsepower, it's got a lot of kick, considerably more than the RX 350. Now given that, it is a different car engineered for economy and therefor drives differently. It is a Hybrid and they require a little period to get acclimated to them.

I've found that I can get the same mileage (very good) with ECO off and most of the following graph is with ECO off. I usually burn Shell mid grade (89 octane) and every 2nd or 3rd tank top off with high test 92 octane in our area. The net effect is probably about 91. You'll see my mileage over the last year dropping just slightly in the colder winter months but over all in the neighborhood of 30 MPG. I intend to keep the graph going over the next year or two until I sell it and get another one. Yep, I'm sold on it .

 

getting around 23mpg consistently in 50 degree weather.

 

THe 450h out accelerates most cars on the road.

 

Can't say it out accelerates most cars on the road but it is certainly no slouch with more than adequate passing power. The drone of the engine with CVT IS an unpleasant sound however.

 

What do you drive now anyway ??? Your 'garage' shows empty.

How many Luxury SUV's do you know of that have the performance of the RX 450h and can average around 30 mpg hwy OR city ??? I don't remember what the numbers are but I can tell you from an owners standpoint, the passing stats for a near 5000 lb SUV are terrific.

 

http://www.zeroto60times.com/Lexus-0-60-mph-Times.html

Still have yet to beat the Lexus LFA off the line--not sure why !

Lexus LF-A 0 to 60 mph Times & Quarter Mile Times
2011 Lexus LFA 0-60 mph 3.6