dug320

I own a RX330 and for the past year I have been considering selling it and buy a 2007+ 400h.

But, after reading the comments on this site and other forums I am reconsidering,

If I understand things correctly ... These vehicles are not to be driven on gravel roads given the fragility of the hybrid drive. These vehicles can be driven in snow (with snow tires) but some people have complained about the lack of traction from the rear wheels because of the electric motors.

I drive on gravel and have to travel from sea level to snowy mountain passes as a matter of routine.

Thoughts?

rcy

I put winter tires on my 2006 400h (which I no longer own) and over three winters (and the odd gravel road thrown in) I never had a problem with traction. The VDIM system was almost uncanny in it's ability to keep the vehicle from sliding as well (when I purposely tried) - stopping a skid almost before it started.

The vehicle is not meant for 'off road'. Gravel road will not be a problem.

The OE tires (Michelin Energy MXV4 S8 if I recall correctly) are not the best for rain/snow conditions.

iMSQ

RadiantX45

For what it’s worth I own a 2011 RX450h AWD and live on a steep gravel road that gets washed out quite often here in Oregon. It gets me up just as well as my RX330. I do notice slightly more wheel slip from the front wheels in the 450h (on rare occasions) but I can definitely feel the rear kick in when that happens. Even still it feels very sure footed. Remember, this car is everywhere Russia, China, Central/ South America, Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East where the roads are terrible. It can handle a little gravel.

Felix

Have you driven one w/ the 2gr engine?

dug320

I ended buying a 450h 7 years ago. I call it the plow as it moves through heavy snow like a plow. Never been stuck yet.

daddiojigg

I might be mistaked but since it's snowy outside i've paid more attention to my 'drive monitor' with this thread in the back of my thread. My feelings are that the rears only power at low speeds. I would think the gas models( with a rear diff) would be better in the snow with fulltime traction not just at low speeds. Thoughts?

dug320

The 400h rear engages when the car detects a slip. I have driven an incredible number KMs in southern Ontario in all conditions with 2WD and 4WD and found one is no better or worse than the other. It is up to you as a driver and what you think is best.

Andek

I noticed my RX400h engages the rear electric motor on any steeper hill. Not sure if it is caused by any micro slip of the front axle, I couldn't feel any, but the screen shows the rear traction engaged as soon as I start climbing.

daddiojigg

Yes, at low speeds.