Lexus has been known for luxurious and cutting-edge vehicles ever since it launched in 1989. Today, Lexus has become one of the most popular and most trusted luxury brands in America. Now, things are going to the next level with the latest generation of Lexus EVs. Its newest plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), in particular, offer the best of both gasoline and electricity, providing both emissions-free city commuting and hassle-free highway driving.
Lexus was one of the earliest pioneers of electrification, introducing the world's first luxury hybrid electric vehicle in 2005 with the debut of the RX 400h. As new forms of electric vehicles were developed, Lexus capitalized on them, introducing its first PHEV model, the NX 450h+, for the 2022 model year. Since then, it has added additional PHEV models to the lineup, including the RX 450h+ and TX 550h+.
But what is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle? You can think of them as a blend of traditional hybrids and fully electric models. They pack more power than a regular hybrid and have a larger battery, offering the ability to commute without the need for any gas at all. However, they have a smaller battery than a fully electric vehicle and still use a gasoline engine for longer distances. Today, we are going to get into the Lexus models that will help give us a hopefully greener future.
Lexus Models
As mentioned earlier, the 2022 Lexus NX 450h+ was the brand's first PHEV. That is pretty new, considering it came out only a couple of years ago, but it has impressed ever since. There is so much to love, and that love continues with the current model year. The 2024 NX 450h+ pairs a 2.5L gasoline engine with an 18.1 kWh battery pack and electric motors to produce 304 hp. That’s enough power to reach 60 mph in six seconds flat or tow up to 2,000 lbs. The large battery pack means it has an estimated 37 miles of all-electric range, which is plenty for most commutes around NYC. But let's dive into some more aspects of the Lexus PHEV models and how driving these vehicles can benefit not only you but the entire planet.
The Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport Handling, the top trim of this model, is a dynamic vehicle ready to move forward and never look back. However, you can use camera and sensor technology to help you park, back up, and be alerted to potential accidents. It is luxurious for a reason, with an interior that gives you all the bragging rights, like boasting about the Thematic Ambient Illumination to fit your mood and aluminum pedals for a sporty feel. Everything down to the tiniest detail has been designed for luxury. Plus, there are all of the advanced technology and safety features like a 10-inch head-up display, premium sound system, wireless charging station, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management. It is no surprise that luxury comes with confidence built in.
The 2024 Lexus TX 550h+ is a newer PHEV with a bold exterior design and plenty of power. This three-row SUV builds its powertrain around a larger 3.5L V6 gasoline engine for a total of 406 hp, the most of any Lexus EV. That’s enough for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, which is remarkably good for an EV. However, it uses the same 18.1 kWh battery pack, so its estimated all-electric range is a bit shorter at 33 miles. You can seat up to six people in this stylish SUV and still have enough legroom and headroom for comfort and convenience. Plus, with up to 97 cu.ft. of cargo space behind the front seats, you can have a little extra room for luggage or whatever you are looking to take with you. Sitting high on 22-inch wheels with an exterior that will make you proud to show off, there is nothing better than having a car that can really do it all and be better for the earth.
Another PHEV we will take a glance at is the Lexus RX 450h+. The 2024 version of this midsize SUV has the same powertrain as the NX 450h+ but offers a larger cabin with more space for passengers and cargo. This amazing plug-in hybrid electric vehicle will surely do its best to impress, as well as keep you and your family entertained, comfortable, and safe. Being a part of the future is just as inspiring as driving it––and who wouldn’t want to drive a luxury SUV with a combined 304 hp and the ability to go from zero to 60 mph in a hair over six seconds? With all of that power, you will surely find many things to do with the RX 450h+. Plus, with the amazing standard features, you will drive boldly and confidently.
The Benefits of Driving a PHEV
There are many amazing benefits to driving any type of EV. Besides being able to reduce your carbon footprint, they can actually be beneficial for your wallet. The true greatness of a PHEV is being able to drive without the use of gas at all, unlike a traditional hybrid, while still having a gasoline engine to fall back on when you need it. That means fewer stops at the gas station. A PHEV also eliminates the need to find a charging station. If a regular EV runs low on charge and there’s no charging station on site, then you’re out of luck. With a PHEV, it is the best of both worlds. This is a great option for people looking to burn less gasoline and make the planet greener.
Everyone knows that NYC is a hustle-and-bustle kind of place. But there are plenty of moving parts in cities like this one that contribute great harm to our earth. So, why not help that by trading in our gas-powered vehicles for EVs instead? With PHEVs, we can reduce our carbon footprint without depending on sometimes difficult-to-find charging stations. PHEVs are able to offer drivers an escape from the “range anxiety” created by fully electric models and provide the opportunity to travel longer distances without stopping. Plus, the power and fun you get from driving a Lexus PHEV like the NX 450h+ or RX 450h+ just can’t be beat.
A Greener Future Is Waiting
It is amazing that we can really have it all with a Lexus EV. This is definitely one tough brand to beat, whether you are looking at its EV or gasoline models. With plenty of power, remarkable performance, good fuel efficiency, and so much more to love, there is not much that can compete with this kind of luxury and clean driving. Taking part in reducing our environmental footprints is essential for our future, our kid’s future, our grandkids’ future, and the other lives that call the earth home. The great news is that you can do your part by driving a Lexus PHEV and still enjoy all the comforts of luxury, power, and technology. If you are interested in seeing what a Lexus EV can do for you, contact our team, and we will set you up with a test drive of the latest models.
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Lexus Evs