Lexus RX 400h ready, at a price
Toyota has announced the prices for the luxury hybrid SUV and it's about $10,000 more than the gas-only version. When the RX 400h goes on sale on tax-day, April 15, the sticker price will be $48,535. Toyota broke up the price between $4,000 - $5,000 for the hybrid engine and $6,000 in additional features that are optional on the RX 330. The 400h gets to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and the EPA estimates 27/31 mpg. We'll let the value vs. environment consciousness debates continue.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
starlightmica 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
EPA rating is city 31, highway 27.
The waiting list is currently 11k vehicles long and Toyota can build 2k per month. None on eBay today, though.
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Leo 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
only 27? :(
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Charles S 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
"Well let the value vs. environment consciousness debates continue."
Well, once one put the words to paper, I don't think there is much debate:
Should the 0-to-60 number be a virtue that rank higher (and worth more) than the principle of conserving gasoline? If someone says YES, then obviously, hybrid is pointless, and the Ford GTs and Porsches are GREAT VALUE for the price.
To get a few seconds on acceleration, the cost of the vehicle goes exponentially higher. On top of that, it COSTS more to operate the vehicle. And then, to use the vehicle for its full potential as a race car or a hauler, terrible wear and tear on the vehicle will make it cost even MORE.
For the HIGH cost of owning and operating sports cars, trucks, and SUVs, it sure sound stupid on paper. Yet, in the real world, sports cars and SUVs are what people VALUE more than an efficient car. People will count every penny when talking about hybrids, but then get all quiet when it comes time to fill up gas for their gas-guzzlers.
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Whydrive 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
In California, it's the SUV owners that are the loudest to complain when gas prices go up.
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Dag Brekke 10:31PM (12/18/2005)
I don't agree with the last speaker. There will always be customers wanting fast cars. To lead them towards hybrids will be a step forward. You'll never get them to buy a Prius.
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