With global warming almost officially here, hybrids are becoming increasingly sought after.

SUVs have always been popular, but now you can have both, in the shape of the Lexus RX 400H.

With a V6 and not one, but two, electric motors that drive the part-time 4WD, the Lexus has achieved two New Zealand firsts: the first hybrid SUV, and therefore the first motoring oxymoron.

Around town, the electric motor up front runs things until the going gets tough and the petrol-driven 3.3-litre V6 kicks in.

But let's face it, the only time Lexus owners go off-road is when they stuff up the parallel park.

Economy is around 5l/100km, until you get on the open road and the V6 takes over.

Once off-road, the Lexus senses the terrain and the electric motor down the back automatically drives the rear wheels. (But let's face it, the only time Lexus owners go off-road is when they stuff up the parallel park.)

With automatic tail-gate opening and closing, and a tyre-changing kit that includes Lexus mat, towel and gloves, the Lexus RX 400H is the perfect car for perfect people.