Review: 2023 Lexus TX 500h (366 Hp) Hybrid DIRECT4 ECT-i

The 2023 Lexus TX 500h is a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) that combines luxury, performance, and efficiency in a sleek SUV package. With its powerful hybrid system and advanced features, the TX 500h is designed to cater to a wide range of driving needs, from city commutes to long-distance travel. In this review, we'll explore the key aspects of this vehicle, helping you determine if it's the right fit for your lifestyle.

Understanding the Basics: Key Terms Explained

Before diving into the specifics of the Lexus TX 500h, let's clarify some essential terms:

Hybrid Vehicle: A car that uses more than one form of onboard energy to achieve propulsion. In the case of the TX 500h, it combines a gasoline engine with electric motors.
FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A type of hybrid vehicle that can run on just the electric motor, the internal combustion engine, or a combination of both.
DIRECT4: Lexus's advanced all-wheel-drive system that optimizes power distribution between the front and rear wheels for improved handling and stability.
ECT-i: Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence, which enhances the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

Main Features and Performance

The Lexus TX 500h is powered by a combination of a 2.4-liter inline-four engine and two electric motors, delivering a total system output of 366 horsepower. This setup allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds, making it both quick and efficient. The hybrid system is supported by a 1.4 kWh nickel-metal hydride battery, which is located under the rear seats to optimize space.

Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the TX 500h, with a combined fuel consumption of 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers (27.04 US mpg). This makes it an economical choice for both city driving and long road trips. The SUV's top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h (111.85 mph), ensuring a balance between performance and safety.

In terms of dimensions, the TX 500h is a spacious vehicle, measuring 5170 mm in length and offering a generous trunk space of up to 2747 liters with the seats folded down. This makes it ideal for families or those who need extra cargo capacity.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Lexus TX 500h is versatile enough to suit various lifestyles:

City Driving: With its hybrid efficiency and compact turning circle of 11 meters, the TX 500h is well-suited for urban environments. The electric steering and advanced driver-assistance systems make maneuvering through traffic a breeze.
Long-Distance Travel: The comfortable interior, combined with a large fuel tank capacity of 65 liters, makes the TX 500h perfect for road trips. The hybrid system ensures you won't have to stop frequently for fuel.
Family Use: With seating for six and ample cargo space, this SUV is ideal for families. The all-wheel-drive system provides added safety and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Adventure Lifestyles: The TX 500h's all-wheel-drive capability and high ground clearance of 203 mm make it suitable for light off-roading and outdoor adventures.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Here's a quick overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the 2023 Lexus TX 500h:

Strengths:
- Efficient hybrid powertrain
- Spacious interior and cargo capacity
- Advanced safety and driver-assistance features
- Luxurious design and comfort
Weaknesses:
- Higher price point compared to non-hybrid SUVs
- Limited off-road capability

Conclusion

The 2023 Lexus TX 500h is a well-rounded SUV that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency. It's particularly well-suited for families and those who value comfort and advanced technology in their vehicles. While it may not be the best choice for serious off-road enthusiasts, its capabilities are more than adequate for most driving scenarios. Consider what features are most important to you, and whether the TX 500h meets those needs.

Technical Specifications

Attribute	Details
Generation	TX
Modification (Engine)	500h (366 Hp) Hybrid DIRECT4 ECT-i
Powertrain Architecture	FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body Type	SUV
Seats	6
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	8.7 l/100 km (27.04 US mpg)
CO2 Emissions	Not specified
Fuel Type	Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	6.1 sec
Maximum Speed	180 km/h (111.85 mph)
Emission Standard	SULEV
Battery Voltage	288 V
Battery Technology	Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
Electric Motor Power	85 Hp (front), 101 Hp (rear)
Electric Motor Torque	292 Nm (front), 168 Nm (rear)
Engine Displacement	2393 cm3
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	271 Hp
Torque	460 Nm
Compression Ratio	11:1
Fuel Injection System	Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine Aspiration	Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler
Kerb Weight	2245-2254 kg
Max Load	610-619 kg
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	572 l - 2747 l
Fuel Tank Capacity	65 l
Length	5170 mm
Width	1990 mm
Height	1780 mm
Wheelbase	2950 mm
Drive Wheel System	All wheel drive (4x4)
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	6 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i
Front Suspension	Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear Suspension	Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer
Front Brakes	Ventilated discs, 399 mm
Rear Brakes	Ventilated discs, 338 mm
Assisting Systems	ABS, 4-wheel steering
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	Not specified
Wheel Rims Size	22