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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  Not bad... - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Geo-Green - July 15 - 8:36 am

  I own a 2005 Prius too. Obviously, the Lexus is much more luxurious, $$$, with impressive acceleration and space. I am pleased with the quality of this hybrid and am averaging about 27 mpg in day to day driving that is a mix of highway and town. I have to admit, however, that I actually prefer driving the Prius. Why? There is just something remarkable about its "hybrid" combination of fuel efficiency (48mpg), fun, its real time message: CONSERVE. With two teenagers the Lexus provides the room that the Prius cannot and its terrific that a SUV type car can get decent mileage, but, truthfully, its just not the same as my little funny-looking, fun-to- drive Prius.

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  Premier Hybrid - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Kurt E - July 12 - 7:10 am

  One of the quietest vehicles I have ever driven. Transition from gas engine to electric is so quiet and smooth I can never tell when the engine is running, unless I really get on the gas. Averaging 29 MPG which is extremely nice, considering the rising gas prices. Luxurious and quiet interior, Lexus has a winner!

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  Poor gas mileage - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By jfinley - July 2 - 5:00 pm

  This is a very nice car, but I challenge anyone out there to prove they are getting better than 22-24 mpg. Better, I challenge Lexus to prove it. My fiend with a V8 truck gets better mpg. Shame on you Lexus, shame on me for buying.

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  Lexus quality, not so great gas mileage - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By r1509 - June 27 - 6:13 pm

  I have had this vehicle for about 4 weeks. I have put about 4200 miles, mostly highway, on the 400h and this is my experience: The 400h is a pleasure to drive. Lots of power when you need it, and rock stable on the road at speeds (by me) up to 105 mph. All systems (air, power, etc.) are flawless. Now the not so good news. The highway mileage is about 26 mpg, excellent for an suv of this weight. In town, where I expected it to shine, Ive been getting 22-24 mpg, and that is with careful monitoring of the fuel consumption, and attention to light acceleration. I have talked to other drivers who have the same 400h experience. I have to admit that I am disappointed. Perhaps it will improve.

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  Where is the gas savings? - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Jon G - June 26 - 8:26 am

  I love the car, and Im glad I have it, but I dont have a clue about fuel economy. I traded in my Ford Explorer for the Lexus when MY gas prices hit $4/gal. Ive never gotten any better then 22mpg.

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  Awesome - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By fred - June 26 - 1:13 am

  This car really is fun to drive. I had a VW Toureg before the Lexus and this car so far is more reliable.The fact that the Toureg used high test at 13mpg made me look for an alternative ride. I am happy with the choice I made.

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  Get Real-Greatest Hype Ever - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Steve - June 25 - 8:36 pm

  DO NOT PURCHASE THIS HYPE Vehicle! Seats are hard, rear end cramps on longer trips, Blind spot looking back over left shoulder. No coin slots, no place to house phone, bluetooth uses speakers which sound like a tin can, no access to radio control to improve sound. 20MPG, Factory rep and dealer said OK and meets factory specs?? You cant see a child in front of this vehicle or anything else lower than the hood, no sensor system in front. The LS 430 is a luxury vehicle, this is not. The Toyota Sienna has electric fold down rear seats this one does not. Space in rear way too small.Instrumentation is very poorly designed. Over priced 4 what you get. Gets stench from Air Conditioner.

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  Worth the extra cost over time! - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By Don Benton - June 25 - 1:16 am

  This has been an exceptional vehicle in all respects! The local dealership has been excellent since purchase. All service has been completed in a timely fashion and with great care for our time and convenience.

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  Great SUV - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By shoo - May 28 - 11:03 pm

  Great SUV...smooth, fun, good MPG, nicely equipped, quiet, everyone likes it.

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  Poor Gas Mileage - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By David - May 20 - 5:50 am

  We purchased this vehicle solely for the gas mileage that was claimed on the sticker and what the dealer said it would actually get. We were very disappointed when it got 35-40% less then what they claimed. Around the city the best we were able to achieve was 19.6 mpg when the sticker and dealer claimed it would get 31 mpg or better. We even had a factory rep from Lexus drive the car and he could not get it over 20 mpg. This car is terrible! Lexus would not stand behind it and told us that there was nothing they would do. We lost 13k selling it back to the dealer.