14
RX500h/RX350h_QG_U
Because there is no engine sound or vibration, it is easy to mistake the hybrid electric vehi-
cle for being off when it is actu ally still running, as indicated by the “READY” indicator being
illuminated. For safety, make sure to always shift the shift position to P and apply the parking
brake when parked.
The following sounds or vibrations may occur when the hybrid system is operating and are
not a malfunction:
• Motor sounds may be heard from the engine compartment.
• Sounds may be heard from the hybrid battery (traction battery) behind the rear seats when the hybrid syst em starts or stops.
• Relay operating sounds such as a snap or soft clank will be emitted from the hybrid battery
(traction battery), under the rear seats, when the hybrid sy stem is started or stopped.
• Sounds from the hybrid system may be heard when the back door is open.
• Sounds may be heard from the transmission when the gasoline engine starts or stops,
when driving at low speeds, or during idling.
• Engine sounds may be heard when accelerating sharply.
• Sounds may be heard due to regenerative braking when the brake pedal is depressed or as the accelerator pedal is released.
• Vibration may be felt when the gasoline engi ne starts or stops.
• Cooling fan sounds may be heard from th e air intake vents under the rear seats.
When the vehicle has run out of fuel and the hybrid system cannot be started, refuel the
vehicle with at least enough gasoline to make the low fuel level warning light go off. If there is
only a small amount of fuel, the hybrid system may not be able to start. (The standard amount
of fuel is about 2.6 gal. [9.8 L, 2.2 Imp. gal.], when the vehicle is on a level surface. This value
may vary when the vehicle is on a slope. Add extra fuel when the vehicle is inclined.)
Sounds and vibrations specific to a hybrid electric vehicle
Running out of fuel
48
RX500h/RX350h_QG_U
1Select on the center display.
2Select “Drive mode”.
3Select driving mode.
1Normal mode
Provides an optimal balance of fuel
economy, quietness, and dynamic per-
formance. Suitable for city driving.
2Eco drive mode
Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-
friendly manner and improve fuel
economy through moderate throttle
characteristics and by controlling the
operation of the ai r conditioning sys-
tem (heating/cooling).
When the Eco drive mode is selected,
Eco drive mode indicator comes on.
3Sport mode
Vehicles without Adaptive Variable
Suspension System: Controls the
hybrid system to provide quick, power-
ful acceleration. This mode also
changes the steering feel, making it
suitable for when agile driving
response is desired, such as when driv-
ing on roads with many curves.
Vehicles with Adaptive Variable Sus-
pension System: Help s to ensure steer-
ing performance and driving stability
by simultaneously controlling the
steering and suspension in addition to
the hybrid system. Suitable for sportier
driving.
When the Sport mode is selected,
“Sport” indicator will comes on.
Driving Mode Select Switch
The driving modes can be selected to suit driving conditions.
Selecting a drive mode
