Launched in 2009 as a successor to the RX 400h, Lexus' new RX 450h builds on the success of the company's first hybrid SUV. The 30 mpg people-mover has a base price of $41,660 for the front-wheel drive model and $43,250 for the all-wheel drive version.

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Visually similar to the RX 350, the 450h has a few of its own unique styling features, including an exclusive grille, hybrid badging including blue-trimmed Lexus logos, unique front bumper, special 19-inch wheels, blue-tinted headlamps and taillamps, and optional LED headlamps.

Entering its second generation, the RX 450h features an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new, more efficient inverter, the total system output will be 295 horsepower -- 27 more horsepower than the current generation RX hybrid.

Another step in the Lexus Hybrid Drive's evolution is the addition of two new systems that further improve fuel efficiency. The first is an exhaust-heat recovery system that reduces engine warm-up time allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. The result is an improvement in both fuel economy and emissions. The second is a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system that reduces engine pumping losses, which also helps to improve economy.

The RX 450h features a front-wheel hybrid drive or an electronically driven, part-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid drive system. One key feature of the system is the RX 450h's rear-mounted electric motor-generator, which allows all four wheels to perform regenerative braking, charging the hybrid battery more effectively.

The crossover also features a new, uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension that helps provide exceptional agility and control. Its distinctive design also allows for five percent more cargo volume and easier loading. To complement the new rear suspension and provide excellent dexterity and ride comfort, the front McPherson strut geometry was optimized.

The new RX has a long list of high-tech gadgets, including an available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system, featuring an all-new "Remote Touch" controller. Positioned on the center console, Remote Touch is comparable to a computer mouse. While RX will feature voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM satellite-radio capability is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.

The new RX is available with a selection of option packages, which include features like a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, dynamic radar cruise control, and a Sports Package featuring a sport-tuned suspension.

The all-new RX will offer a wide-angle side view monitor. With a camera located under the passenger side-view mirror, the driver can check hard-to-view areas on the passenger side of the vehicle by simply selecting a button on the navigation screen or the steering wheel and view the camera image on the navigation screen.