Lane 1
ATUK - 05.50/22 and 20.81/47 TW2 - SD9480-01 and SD9383-03 Despite being AWD, the RX450h doesn’t have any type of 4x4 modes, not even hill descent, you simply put it in drive and off you go, which is pretty much what I did. Starting south and heading north, the surface is made up of loose stone that, when driving slowly up the steep incline, can be a little too loose, especially if you keep stopping to take photos, as I did. The RX actually did a fine job of maintaining traction, though as the stones became larger, I was a little concerned about scuffing the alloys. Upon reaching the top the going becomes quite easy, in fact nothing a 2WD couldn’t handle, and after a good downpour you’ll be wading through some rather large puddles, though nothing too deep. As I tootled along I noticed evidence of off-piste activity, but like littering, spitting and other anti social behaviours, I guess it’s all part and parcel of life in today's society.
There are a number of gates to open and close, which can be quite laborious when you’re on your own, but sometimes it’s nice just to take your time and immerse yourself in the fresh air and vast openness of the moors. On a clear day the views are stunning, and I was fortunate, despite angry looking clouds, the rain kept itself to a minimum (usually heavier when I stopped to open and close the aforementioned gates), but it was the wind that was unforgiving, well, it was mid November. A few more gates later and the lane begins to descend, personally it’s this last section that I look forward to the most. Not for any technical driving, though there is a deep diagonal water channel to be wary of, rather to the stunning views that never seem to end, especially as you near the end as Semerwater, like an oasis, can be often seen glimmering in the distance. Usually, the descent can be easily managed in second, or even third gear in low box, however, I have to admit that it wasn’t until I reached this point that I realised the RX450h doesn’t have a hill descent control button. Leaving it in first gear didn’t help either, so it was a case of constantly feathering the brakes until I reached the end, and parked up on the shore of Semerwater.
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