Fifth in a series introducing key features of the new RX 450h: Rear and Side Parking Monitors

When it comes to parking manoeuvres, a moment’s inattention can cause a costly mistake. Scraped alloy wheels and dented bumpers might seem part-and-parcel of modern driving, but with the new RX 450h Lexus has gone further to make life easier and safer when it comes to navigating tight spaces.

The new full hybrid luxury SUV is available with three different monitor systems that eliminate blind spots and provide handy guidelines to ensure drivers keep on the right track as they negotiate parking spaces.

The Rear Parking Assist Monitor is fitted as standard to all models. Like the previous generation RX, this uses a miniature camera mounted discreetly above the number plate, which captures a real-time image of the area immediately behind the vehicle.

On models equipped with satellite navigation, the image is presented on the multi-display screen on the centre console, complete with overlaying guidelines that show the predicted path of the vehicle in line with the steering angle.

On RX 450h SE models without satellite navigation, a new system is adopted with the image presented on a 2.4-inch monitor neatly incorporated in the rear view mirror.

Going further to help the driver, the new RX 450h is also available with a new Side Parking Assist Monitor. A wide angle lens camera is integrated into the underside of the passenger door mirror to show the area alongside the vehicle on the centre display. It is activated using the main switch control on the steering wheel, or can be set to automatic mode, in which case the image is shown as soon as vehicle speed drops to 6mph or less; the display is cancelled when the speed reaches 7mph.

Because a very wide angle lens is used, the driver has the option of two views: an overall side view, extending to the rear of the vehicle, and a forward view, including the front quarter.