What are the differences between Lexus RX four-wheel drive models and how should I choose？

　　The Lexus RX series is currently available in 450h +, RX500 and RX350 models. Among the four-wheel drive models, the 450h + and RX500 are equipped with Direct 4 electronic four-wheel drive; the 350 is equipped with AWD, which is E Four-wheel drive. So, what are the differences between the two four-wheel drive systems? How to choose?

RX350

RX350 interior

　　First, let’s talk about the E Four four-wheel drive equipped with the 350 model. This four-wheel drive is different from the time-sharing four-wheel drive and the OurHours four-wheel drive. There is no half-shaft connection between the front and rear wheels, and the rear wheels are driven by independent motors. When the vehicle starts, the rear-wheel motors will cooperate with the hybrid motors to complete the start. When the speed reaches the rated speed, the rear-wheel motors will stop working, and when the sensor detects that the wheels are slipping, the rear-wheel motors will start again. In this way, this four-wheel drive system looks more like timely four-wheel drive. In fact, this system has three motors plus internal combustion engines, a four-cylinder internal combustion engine start and generation motor, a drive and kinetic energy recovery motor, and a rear-wheel drive motor Although this four-wheel drive system has no off-road attributes, when the front and rear motors and internal combustion engines work at the same time, it can make a two-ton "fat man" lighter and more flexible.

RX450h +

RX500

RX500 interior

　　Look at the Direct 4 electronic four-wheel drive equipped with the 450h + and RX500. It is an all-wheel drive system developed based on a parallel hybrid technology. This system can optimize the driving force distribution according to changes in driving conditions based on the driver’s intention, as well as important information such as the speed of the curve and the steering angle, providing a more rapid and direct driving experience. When the vehicle accelerates, the phenomenon of the vehicle looking up generally occurs. The Direct 4 can distribute the driving force required for acceleration according to the ground contact load of the front and rear wheels to stabilize the attitude of the vehicle and passengers. During the deceleration process, the four-wheel drive system can independently control the front and rear brakes to improve the overall grip of the vehicle. When turning into a corner, the four-wheel drive system can distribute more driving force to the front wheels, with a distribution of 75:25 to 50:50; and when turning out, the torque distributed to the rear wheels will be increased, with a distribution ratio of 50:50 to 20:80, thus improving the handling experience in the corner. This four-wheel drive system not only guarantees strong power, but also better comfort.

　　If you are interested in the Lexus RX series, it is recommended that you go to the Lexus store to test drive and feel the difference between the two four-wheel drive systems. I believe it will bring you an excellent experience. (Text: Xie Jinqiang, Picture: Lexus)