The Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUV will go on sale April 15, 2005. Lexus has more than 9,500 confirmed pre-sold orders for the 2006 RX 400h with more than 46,000 consumers registering online for more information.

We’ve received significantly more pre-launch consumer interest for the 400h than any vehicle in our entire 15-year history. Although the on sale date is confirmed, we are attempting to move the start of production up even earlier in 2005 to build up sufficient inventories to help meet the demand we expect in mid-April.

—Denny Clements, Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager

The all-wheel drive full hybrid powertrain combines two electric motors with the efficient 3.3-liter V6 engine found in the RX 330 to significantly improve low to mid-speed acceleration and overall fuel efficiency. Regenerative braking recharges the batteries.

The RX 400h will develop a peak system output of approximately 270 horsepower and deliver combined fuel economy equivalent or better than the current EPA average of a compact sedan.  Zero-to-sixty acceleration also will improve over the current RX 330’s sub-eight second time.

More details to come early next year.