Lexus RX 450h spotted in Delhi with test plates, will launch in early 2017

Lexus brand launches in India with 3 models in early 2017.

A Lexus RX 450h with test plates has been spotted driving in Delhi. Toyota Kirloskar Motor has already imported a limited number of Lexus models and could be holding customer demos and test drives, ahead of the brand's local launch in early 2017.

When asked by Motorbeam, the person behind the wheel claimed that the Lexus RX 450h will cost INR 80-85 Lakhs (on road) when it goes on sale. Since it's a hybrid, buyers in Delhi can expect a reduction in VAT (12.5 percent to 5 percent) for the Lexus RX 450h. However, it will not qualify for the central government's FAME tax incentive as it is a CBU import, thus making it even more expensive in other states. It cannot be ruled out that this example is a private import.

Along with the RX 450h, Toyota's luxury arm will also launch the ES 300h hybrid sedan and the Lexus LX 570 flagship SUV. A Lexus RC-F was also spotted on Indian soil earlier this month, suggesting that the 2-door BMW M4-rival could be part of the lineup.

At launch, Lexus will open dealerships in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, the country's top cities for luxury car sales. Later on, the Japanese luxury car manufacturer will expand sales operations to other metros.

[Source: Motorbeam]