Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle — a gas/electric RX- – more than a decade ago. The new RX 450h introduced today in this column is a perfect reflection of the hybrid leader position cemented by its first generation predecessor. The new RX is powered by Lexus Hybrid Drive. The D4-S 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine is partnered with two high-torque drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. The energy to these motors is fed by a nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack. The engine output is regulated through an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) with paddle shifters. Everything added together, the drivetrain is good for 308 horsepower and a 0-60 sprint time of 7.9 seconds. This 4,740-pound (curb weight) luxury SUV achieves that while keeping the rated fuel economy up at 30/28/30 mpg city/highway/combined. Instead of transfer gears and driveshaft to the rear wheels, the AWD system …