LC500h Might Lend Powerplant To Forthcoming RX
Lexus' new patent filing for RX500h could signal a very special crossover is on the way.
Interesting Filing
Lexus has been very busy filing patents for new model names lately, including a flurry of them for the RX crossover. Along with the recent filing for the name 450h+, which is assumed to be a plug-in hybrid variant, Lexus also filed a patent for the name RX500h, which could be something even cooler.
Photos: Lexus
Favorite Theory
Some believe that the RX500h could replace the existing RX450h, but the latter was still part of the previous RX patent filings, so that's probably unlikely. Our favorite theory is that the RX500h is going to utilize the powertrain from the brand's flagship coupe - the LC500h.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
Considerable Difference
Currently, the RX450h features Lexus' 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid combination to provide 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. That's not bad, but the LC500h produces a healthier 354 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque from its 3.5-liter V6 and electric drivetrain, which is obviously a considerable jump.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
Change of Philosophy
The RX450h takes around 7 seconds to reach 60 miles-per-hour and tops out at a mere 112 mph - not exciting numbers by any measure. Of course, the crossover is designed to be an efficient, fuel-sipping people hauler, not a drag racer. Regardless, a little more power would be nice.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
Better Towing
On the practicality side of things, the more powerful drivetrain would also help the RX tow more than its current 3,500 pounds, which would appeal to some folks. And these things are important in what is a red hot market full of choices.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
Get Sporty
It's also worth noting that sporty SUVs and crossover have become increasingly popular in recent years. Lexus would do well to offer a more powerful version of the RX to join the party, which is currently one of the hottest segments among consumers at the moment.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
Making Sense
Ultimately, it just makes a lot of sense for Lexus to sell a more powerful, sporty RX. It would certainly give the model a real jolt and improve its image among crossover-hungry consumers, and by all accounts, wouldn't be very difficult for the automaker to pull off, either.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the LC500's hybrid V6 for an RX right here in Club Lexus Forum.
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