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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  Exceptional Vehicle - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By The Greek - September 24 - 11:16 pm

  I have owned the RX 400h since late April. I like just about everything about this SUV. It is a lot of fun to drive and it performs terrifically. Passing on the interstates is a breeze even at high speeds of greater than 80mph. It takes off like a "rocket". It is very quiet and comfortable. But most of all, I am elated with the gas mileage I am getting. The average mpg in the city has been better than the EPA estimate of 31. In fact, on one test recently, I averaged a whopping 40 mpg on pure city driving of 27.5 miles. This was without the AC on but I am still amazed. Obviously, one cannot drive like a hot rod to get this type of mileage. I get about 27-28 on the highway. Coasting helps a lot.

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  Great ride, EPA took me for ride on MPG - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Jonathan Cahill - September 23 - 9:33 pm

  A very clean, sharp, user friendly interior loaded with amenities. The exterior looks like RX 330 with larger, sharper wheels, and more angled lights. Hybrid ride is smoother, quieter, greater acceleration than 333rx. When you think hybrid, however, you think great MPG, think again. My wife predominately drives car, uses only premium, drives 90% city, never had a speeding ticket in her life, yet we have never reached 24 mpg on any tankful. Rather, via hand measurement we are at 22.9mpg, 23.6 according to the car computer after 5k miles of driving. Lexus tested car, say its fine & EPA test is outdated, and hybrid battery designed for performance,not MPG,you decide for 50k whats important

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  Loooove it! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Liz - August 20 - 6:20 pm

  Actual mileage about 23-24. Best vehicle I have ever owned. Only defect is paint, Bamboo Pearl. There seems to be something wrong with it.

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  mendabend eval - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By berrien - July 23 - 9:53 am

  plenty of power..comfortable city and on the road ..great mileage..great overall package for the price

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  Great ride; cheap paint - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Texmom - July 7 - 7:43 pm

  Im at 68000 miles on my RX 400h and have been very happy with the cars overall drive. It has NEVER broken down or needed repairs. The interior finishes (especially the silver/aluminum finishes) scratch VERY easily, as does the exterior paint. Ive replaced the tires twice - you have to get the kind that are rated for the extra weight of the car. I love the Nav system, and the one button push to close the rear door.

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  Excellent car! Perfect choice for me. - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By waynem - July 7 - 8:13 am

  I recently purchased a certified used 06 hybrid (the first my local dealership had), and I have to say I absolutely love this car! I had been keeping an eye out for a used one. I am really happy with everything so far, especially the mileage. Since mine has been already "broken in", I am averaging 28-29 mpg, granted I do a lot of street driving, so that helps. Everything I loved about my previous RX is here and many things have been improved, so I dont have any real complaints. The only thing that could be improved further is the nav system, in my opinion. Id highly recommend this car.

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  Extraordinary Engineering - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By RAC - June 22 - 6:26 pm

  We needed more cargo space in our vehicles but didnt want a gas guzzling SUV. The Lexus has proved to be a wonderful solution - we have plenty of cargo space inside and on the roof and the hybrid system, while taking some time to get used to, has been just terrific. The ride is smooth and quiet - the hybrid drive works flawlessly and is a wonder to watch on the monitor and there is more than enough power when you need it. The entire vehicle is beautifully built, roomy and very well equipped. The navigation system is a bit daunting at first, but use the quick guide - youll be fine. Mileage is getting there - when broken in we think it will be just about at published levels. Fantastic!

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  First Time Lexus Owner - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By JimAtlanta - June 19 - 12:33 pm

  After driving a pick-up truck for years I wanted a vehicle with a more refined drive, styling and amenities but which would also provide the capability of a decent amount of cargo capacity. After looking around and test driving several SUVs the Lexus 400h caught my attention with its superior gas mileage, styling and refinement. I have had my vehicle for a month and find it as pleasurable to drive now as I did the first day....In fact it took me that long just to master the navigation system!! While my gas mileage hasnt reached the government rating it is still satisfactory for the size/weight and amenities of this vehicle.

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  The quiet one... - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By P. Volckmann - June 11 - 11:10 pm

  This vehicle is better than my previous 2004 LX 470 in the following ways. It is more powerful, faster, more surefooted and stable in handling & driveability. The lack of transmission noise from constant downshifting makes for a very quiet ride. The seats are almost as comfortable than the LX 470 but the 400h steering wheel cover is very slippery, I would like to see an upgrade wood like in the 470.

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  Love it - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Ed - June 7 - 9:56 pm

  I have had the RX 400h for 2 years now and my wife and I love it. The power and quick acceleration when needed was a surprise. The turning radius is extremely small and steering is the best Ive ever had on any vehicle. I think the ride is exceptional and quiet. My first experience with a hybrid and it has exceeded my expectation.