• Pressing the “POWER” button starts the vehicle, the engine will start when needed.
  To start your vehicle press and hold the brake pedal, then press the “POWER” button. After a few seconds, the "READY" light in the center of the instrument cluster will come on. Once the "READY" light comes on, place the transmission lever into the desired position and start driving. When accelerating slowly, the vehicle can drive at low speeds on electric power alone, so the gasoline engine may not start for a while depending upon the need.
   

• The engine will automatically turn on and off as needed.
  At low speeds or when stopped, the engine may or may not be on, depending on the need. At medium or high speeds, it is normal for the engine to be on most of the time.
   

• The transmission may feel different.
  Lexus hybrids use an Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). The transmission does not shift with fixed gear ratios like a conventional transmission, so it delivers power efficiently and smoothly.
   

• The brakes may feel different.
  Lexus hybrids feature an advanced, electronically-controlled brake-by-wire system. This system controls both the regenerative braking system and the conventional braking system. As a result, the brakes may feel different from a conventional vehicle.
   

• You may notice different sounds while driving.
  The engine sound will be more steady than a conventional vehicle when accelerating due to the smooth operation of the ECVT. It is also normal for the new technology of the Lexus Hybrid Drive to make a "whirring" sound while driving.

CAUTION: While driving a hybrid vehicle, pay special attention to the area around the vehicle. Because there is little vehicle noise in electric-only mode, pedestrians, people riding bicycles or other people and vehicles in the areaway not be aware of the vehicle starting off or approaching them, so take extra care while driving.

• Some parking attendants may not be familiar with starting a hybrid.
  To properly operate the vehicle, these basic tips are important: 1. Press and hold the brake pedal, then press the “POWER” button. 2. Begin driving when “READY” light stays on. 3. The engine will automatically turn on and off.
   

• When refueling, the fuel doorway take a few moments to open.
  As part of emissions system operation, it may take up to 15 seconds for the fuel door to automatically release after the release button is pressed. TheMulti-information Display in the instrument cluster will display "Refuel Ready" when the door releases.


 

• Lexus hybrid vehicles are not designed to be operated with the fuel tank empty.
  Do not run your vehicle out of fuel or continue to drive with the fuel tank empty. If you run out of fuel, immediately pull over to a safe location and turn off the vehicle. Be sure to add fuel before attempting to restart the vehicle or continuing to drive.
   

• Keep the Hybrid Battery cooling vents clear.
  Do not block the hybrid battery cooling vents in the rear area of the interior with any items. Doing so could cause overheating of the hybrid battery.

• Maintaining charge for your 12-volt Battery.
  Drive your vehicle at least weekly. Operate accessories with vehicle in “READY” mode. When parking, make sure doors and trunk are closed and lights are turned off.
   

• Maintaining charge for your Hybrid Battery.
  For parking longer than about 30 days, charging of the 12-volt battery may be required. Your Lexus dealer has details. To keep the hybrid battery in good condition, drive the vehicle at least once every several months for at least 30 minutes or ten miles. If the hybrid battery becomes fully discharged and the vehicle will not start, even with a jump start to the 12-volt battery, contact your Lexus dealer.


 

• Transmission “D”range
  The “D” transmission range is used for normal driving. Only use the "S*" or “B*” transmission ranges if needed to help maintain vehicle speed when going down steep grades. In “S” mode, the lower the range, the greater the engine braking force.
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Additional Hybrid system driving settings:
"PWR*” switch Set to "PWR" for increased responsiveness. Once set, it will remain in this mode.
“ECO*” switch Set to “ECO*” for improving fuel economy. Both the vehicle driving force and operation of the air conditioning system are controlled to improve fuel efficiency.
“SNOW*” switch Set to “SNOW*” for more controlled acceleration on slippery surfaces. It will remain in this mode until the vehicle is turned off.
“EV*” switch In EV drive mode, the electric motor, powered by the hybrid battery, is used to drive the vehicle. This mode allows you to drive without concern for gas emissions. It may not be possible to select EV drive mode in the following situations:

* If equipped.