Overview & Reviews

Starting in 2006, those wishing to fly their "green" flag in the lap of luxury had a willing ally in which to strut their stuff. With its advanced gasoline-electric drivetrain, the Lexus RX 400h SUV married the luxury and utility of Lexus' RX midsize crossover vehicle with the improved fuel economy and performance of a hybrid.

Available in either front- or all-wheel-drive versions, the Lexus RX 400h used a hybrid powertrain system that combined a gasoline-fueled V6 engine with a battery pack and electric motor generators. Similar to the hybrid setups on other Toyota products, the 400h could seamlessly accelerate on battery power alone during light acceleration. It also boasted a generous 286 horsepower overall, giving it impressive performance along with superior fuel economy ratings.

The Lexus RX 400h crossover was the first true luxury hybrid SUV, and it came packaged with all the normal RX traits like premium interior amenities and a smooth ride. But potential used-SUV buyers simply wishing to go green might also want to check out other, less extravagant hybrids if price is a consideration.

Most Recent Lexus RX 400h

The Lexus RX 400h midsize luxury SUV was produced from 2006-'09 essentially unchanged. It came in a single trim level with standard cloth seats, 10-way power front seats, dual-zone climate control, second-row sliding/reclining seats and a six-disc CD player. Popular options included leather trim, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a moonroof, a navigation system with a back-up camera and 18-inch wheels. An audio package with a Mark Levinson DVD audio system was also available.

Under the sheet metal, the 400h's hybrid drivetrain combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine with a 288-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack and high-torque, electric-drive motor-generators. Driving through a continuously variable transmission, the 400h produced 268 hp and boasted a 0-60-mph time of less than 8 seconds for standard and all-wheel-drive models. Standard safety features were plentiful, and included front, side curtain and driver-knee airbags, as well as stability and traction control and a rollover sensor.

Inside there was a streamlined, modern cabin with aluminum accents, bright-ringed gauges and a touchscreen detailing the hybrid's gas-electric power generation split. A sliding and reclining split rear seat optimized passenger comfort, and a power liftgate provided access to nearly 85 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. A third-row seat was not available.

Once underway, the Lexus RX 400h drove much like its traditional gas-powered sibling, and although the electric motors didn't provide the same lusty soundtrack of a performance car, acceleration was certainly spirited. The 400h's ride was soft and compliant, yet the handling was also generally tight and precise, a surprise given the hybrid's 300 extra pounds of curb weight. But you could definitely feel that extra weight in faster corners and quick transitions. Our editors also noticed that a good deal of engine noise entered the cabin under hard acceleration, as the hybrid system forced the V6 to regularly spin right up to redline.

User Reviews:

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  500 mi Review - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By BeachBOB - October 11 - 9:50 pm

  Well, so far this has been the most exciting car weve purchased. We added the premium package with the camera, nav, wood, leather, moon roof, then also added color matched running boards and chrome wheels. Driving is a whole new experience (especially boppin around downtown on electric only). Unbeknownst to me, my neighbor bought the same model, on the same day, and we didnt even discuss beforehand. Best purchase Ive made in a long time.

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  Love the car, disappointed in mpg. - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Atul - August 24 - 4:03 am

  This is a great car and I love it, but I am disappointed about its fuel efficiency. There is clearly a problem with the EPA mileage rating, which is supposed to be 31 city & 27 highway. I am getting 21 city & 27 highway. The airconditioner broke down during the first 1,000 miles and they had to replace the condensor. It took one week for the part to arrive!

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  Lexus RX 400h Excellence - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By TJG - July 23 - 6:36 am

  While the RX 400h comes standard with Goodyear RSA tires, it is best to negotiate for Michelin Energy MXV4 S8, b/c of ride improvement, superior wear, better gas mileage by 5% or more. Michelin Energy on the RX make a big positive difference in ride quality and quietness. Dont bother with the Mark Levinson stereo; but do opt for the built-in GPS with Bluetooth and rear view camera. Acceleration at all speeds is impressive; w/a light foot, gas mileage can be 29 mpg+ in city and on a good day 27 mpg+ on the highway w/cruise control active. Expect 25 mpg+ avg. Very nice set of wheels.

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  Go fast RX 400h - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Maria Ennella - July 5 - 11:33 pm

  This is my second RX series AWD. I like the reliability, comfort and style. The car is wonderful on a trip or just driving around town. The brakes are the best performance of any vehicle I have owned. I like the way they respond to the road especially in rainy Florida weather. In addition, the car has amazing pickup which is extremely important when entering some of the interstate highways that cannot be avoided. I enjoy the quiet engine of this hybrid. My next will be a Lexus.

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  Great SUV, lousy NAV system, bluetooth - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Steve - June 28 - 12:10 am

  We love our RX 400h. We have put just over 5000 miles on it in 4 months and find it to be a joy to drive - as long as you know where you are going. It accelerates strongly and returns excellent gas mileage for a car of its size (we are averaging better than 24 mpg on a mix of city/hwy driving). The CVT takes a little getting used to but functions well. The handling could be more precise but is better than our Acura MDX. Unfortunately, the NAV system is completely counter intuitive and is almost guaranteed to get you lost or direct you to the longest route. Also, the bluetooth is not compatible with many phones including our verizon RAZR (common phone - unacceptable!).

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  Lexus RX 400 H - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Tony Teo - May 24 - 10:33 pm

  The fuel economy was better in the city type driving. On highways, the gas mileage was disappointing.(The regular ones were better). The engine was noisier when pushed. It is excellent on gas mileage when driven gently i suburb type driving when driven at average speed of 35 to 40 mph. The a/c was just sufficiently cool but could be better on hot days.

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  Practical Power & Grace - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By frenchorne - May 24 - 1:00 pm

  After three months and 3,000 miles I can accurately describe this vehicle as practically perfect. It combines exhilerating power when you need it (especially from 50-70 mph when you are passing) and amazing average fuel economy (25.8 mpg so far). On top of that, it has the seemless integration of a multitude of creature comforts. Its as close as I will ever get to knowing what it is like to pilot a stealth bomber (Flint Mica/Black leather).

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  Great Vehicle, fantastic mileage - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By lexus_gta - May 15 - 1:49 am

  I bought this used about a month ago with only about 60 K km. (less than 40K miles) on it. After much research I decided to use only REGULAR gas in it since it seems that Premium is more about performance than fuel economy. Ill probably throw in an additive every three months or so. Having driven it about 2500 km. (about 1500 miles), Im averaging 8.6L / 100km. which is just over 27mpg. And thats on REGULAR Gas. My 2010 2.4L 4 cyl. Hyundai Santa Fe could not even begin to to approach these numbers. Couldnt be happier because I got a great deal on a car that was just inspected by Lexus and had all the brakes done by Lexus, and is practically new. My best vehicle ever!

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  The Ride Hooked Me - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By JRS - May 3 - 5:23 pm

  Never bought a car for the ride but one Lexus test drive had me hooked. Originally came from the Volvo for Life Family but Volvo sold me a 2003 XC90 with too many problems. I want quality, safety, service, and piece of mind. Instantly fell in love with Lexus’ hybrid ride. Could not tell SUV was on. Talk about get up & go. This baby has power. I keep the cruse control on because I am worried about speeding. It is like floating on a cloud, don’t realize how fast you’re going. Was hoping for better gas mileage. Getting anywhere from 26 to 27 mpg (drive both highway and city). Better than what I was getting before so I’m still pleased. Manual says it gets better after 5000 miles. Will see.

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  Exceeded My Expectations - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By T Owens - May 2 - 1:50 pm

  Extraordinary would be the best word that describes my driving experience in the Lexus RX400h AWD. It came with all the bells and whistles that one would expect from Lexus. The vehicle is exceptionally comfortable, fun, and easy to drive. Although this is my 2nd SUV and 1st hybrid, it is by far superior to the 16.5 MPG Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer that I use to own. Whats truly remarkable is the outstanding power performance when you need it, and the equally outstanding fuel economy in stop and go city traffic. Knowing that the 400h is very quiet in the hybrid mode has heightened my situational awareness when people are nearby on foot, as its almost as loud as an electric golf cart.