Launched: Lexus RX 450h, ES 300h and LX 450d

While the RX 450h is available in two variants, the ES 300h and LX 450d get one each

Heads up everyone! We have a new player in Indian automotive market. Owned by one of the biggest names in the business, Toyota, India now welcomes the renowned luxury brand Lexus. The company has launched three models, RX 450h, ES 300h and LX 450d, in India today. While the RX 450h has two variants and starts at Rs 1.07 crore, there is only one variant each for the ES 300h (priced at RS 55.27 lakh) and the LX 450d. Lexus say that prices for the LX 450d will be announced at a later date.

RX 450h:

The letter ‘h’ means it is powered by a hybrid powertrain. In the Lexus RX 450h, power is harnessed from the combination of a 3.5-litre V6 with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) tech and a 650V A/C permanent magnet synchronous motor. The petrol engine alone pumps out 262PS of power and 335Nm of torque. The electric motor, on the other hand, generates 68PS of power and 139Nm of torque. As a result, the total power output is capped at 313PS/361Nm. Transmission duties are handled by an e-CVT (Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission) unit, which is mated to a four-wheel-drive system.

ES 300h:

The most affordable car in the company’s Indian portfolio shares its platform with the Toyota Camry. The ES 300h is powered by an in-line 4-pot motor which has a cubic capacity of 2.5-litres. It alone produces 160PS of power and 233Nm of torque. To complete the hybrid powertrain, there is a high-output electric motor, which, all on its own, produces 143PS of power and 270Nm of torque. Like the RX 450h, the engine in the ES 300h is mated to an e-CVT unit and the power sent only to the front wheels. The car can complete the 0-100kmph sprint in 8.5 seconds and still claim fuel-efficiency figures of 17kmpl.

LX 450d:

The LX 450d is the biggest Lexus that has gone on sale in India. Although it shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX 450d has a lot more going for itself. It is powered by a turbocharged 4.5-litre diesel engine that belts out 265PS of power and 650Nm of torque. The engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and the power is transferred to the road via all four wheels.

All three models will be brought into India via the CBU (completely built unit) route. This translates to a hefty tax on top of the actual price tags. At present, Lexus doesn’t have an operational showroom anywhere in India, but will start with four dealerships, one each at Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Gurugram. Additionally, after sales facilities will be available in Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi.

Here’s the variant-wise price-list (ex-showroom Delhi):

Lexus RX Luxury: Rs 1.07 Crore

Lexus RX F-Sport: Rs 1.09 Crore

Lexus ES 300h: Rs 55.27 lakh