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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  disappointing fuel economy - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Danette - January 30 - 8:50 am

  Im averaging 20 mpg for city driving, NOT the 31 mpg advertised by Lexus. Im very disappointed in the fuel economy. The car is great to drive and has the Lexus luxury feel, but for $10,000 less I could have the same qualities with an RX330.

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  Nice hybrid SUV, not so nice GPS - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By SJFK from Seattle - January 19 - 11:50 pm

  Decided to trade in our 2001 RX 300 Silversport for the RX 400h when price of gasoline skyrocketed. The first 5000 miles has been a fairly pleasant and uneventful experience getting a decent 26 MPG on mixed highway and city driving (compared to 19-20 MPG on the RX 300). I find myself constantly playing the game of trying to maximize the efficiency and in the process developed a lighter right foot to allow the car to "glide" more (CVT is gearless so no downshifts like the conventional transmission when you let go of the accelerator). The car slows down mainly from the force of friction between the road and tires. Hate to admit it, but the car has trained me to become a better driver.

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  Our RX - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By For Every - January 8 - 9:09 pm

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  Reviewer Say What? - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By G2 - January 6 - 10:40 am

  My Lexus 400h is the best car Ive ever owned, and Ive own Beamers and Mercs. I get 28.5 mpg on mostly interstate driving during the summer and 25.5 mpg in the winter. Somehow my 21 year own son can get 32 mpg, swear on my mother. Believe me when I say I dont know how, because he has a lead foot. This car is smooth, and quiet. Love the CVT and I dont miss the transmission shift bump. Im buying the 2010 RX 450h when it comes out and Im trading my wifes 2006 IS250 for the HS250 when it comes out in the fall of 2009.

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  The latest Tech for an SUV - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By LAL - December 30 - 4:33 am

  I only have this SUV for one week but have put over 500 miles on it. I really enjoy the comfort and the gadgets in this vehicle. When you start it you hear nothing except the heating or air system - just a "ready" indicator on the instrument panel. The pick up is very good and handling seems very reponsive. I have driven in heavy rain and wind and felt that the car held the road exceptionally well. I have not yet gotten the mileage stated but the dealer told me I will when I have broken in the gas engine, probably @2000 miles. I really would have liked a place for change on the dash or a place to put a phone. Women will love the place for a handbag. Overall after 1 week, I love the car

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  RX 400h Review - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By tep - December 26 - 11:10 pm

  The vehicle has been 100% reliable. The longest I have driven at one time is 900 miles and it was not tiring. Fuel economy is good, around 30 mpg local driving, 32 mpg at 60 mph on highway, 26 mpg at 70 mph on highway. It is reasonably quiet on the highway with the Michelin tires. Looks like first set of tires will last 45,000 miles.

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  Happy camper in Palm Desert - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Woody Kaplan - December 5 - 11:50 am

  Have noticed winter gas gives better gas mileage in California. Steering seems very tight with some wheel jerking.

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  Wishing For Hybrid Mileage Advertised - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Lois - November 26 - 8:30 am

  Overall, I am still very impressed with this vehicle. I just wish that I could get their advertised 30-33 hybrid miles per gallon. Currently I am averaging 22.5. I have asked about this at the dealership & told that if the terrain is steep/elevated like going up mountains that this is what is affecting the mileage. Well thats what we have in CA & NV.

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  Great performance and mileage! - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By DHENRY - November 23 - 1:56 am

  Broke this car in on a trip through the mountains. At 200 miles, it averaged 25.1 MPG, 72 MPH. Town driving at average 27 to 29 MPG. Latest trip (Interstate and mountains) averaged 26.1 MPG., again at 72 MPH. Acceleration is both excellent and fun. This is our third Lexus (2nd RX) and its by far the best. If your gas mileage isnt AT LEAST as good as the EPA estimate, work on modifying your driving style. Build quality for this Japanese-built example is flawless, and dealer (Classic Lexus) is extremely hybrid knowledgeable.

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  225,000 Miles and no issues - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By RD - October 28 - 4:22 am

  Okay, so the car looks a bit boring, but well over 200,000 miles without a single maintenance issue. This car just keeps going and going. Keeping my fingers crossed on the hybrid battery, but no signs of any issues.