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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  Can recommend - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Kushan - August 20 - 4:58 pm

  Good place to buy cars

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  Great Everything Vehicle - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By jonkron - January 20 - 8:04 am

  This is my wifes car. We bought it used with 35K and have since put 40K on it. I call it the cream puff because it is a Japanese Cadillac. Luxury, ride, and fit & finish are top notch and reliability is excellent. I will be the first to admit the design was not my favorite initally- but Ive grown to love it because it does everything very well. AWD has been successfully Tahoe tested many times. It is an extremely easy & comfortable vehicle to drive. She is looking at the new model for no other reason then the new factor. Would buy this year & model again in a heartbeat.

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  Great Car with even greater maintenance cost - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By Louis Brown - January 15 - 12:27 pm

  Got my 2007 Lexus RX400h in 2009 used and the car is definitely a great car. Very comfortable to drive and it is a car that makes you feel at home. However, the car is an SUV and most SUVs dont drive that well. If you are looking for a slower paced SUV for the family or just a causal ride than this is for you. The acceleration is practically non-existent. However, it is a hybrid so one shouldnt expect sports car performance but dont expect any at all. The car is slow. Period. Even though I liked the car a lot, one problem I had with is was the maintenance and repair costs. I am sure that it is because it is a Lexus which causes the prices to be so high. Even worse, the car is a hybrid and if you try to take it to most places for maintenance or repairs they will tell you that they do not work on Hybrids. That leaves you with only the dealership for servicing options and we know how much they charge over there. All in all this is a good car but as I have gotten older I have learned my lesson that cars really are a waste of money.

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  Vehicle has shortcomings - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By Redhead - December 23 - 7:56 pm

  I am a Lexus person and have an LS 430 which I think is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have been disappointed with the RX400h. The fuel economy is below expectations at 19-20 in normal driving which is mostly in town and 22-23 on a trip. I have asked the dealership about this and they mostly just shrug their shoulders. It seems to me the gas engine cuts in at too low a speed. The front seat is too small for me at 62" both in seat size and headroom. Have had battery problems. Battery is too small. Also, it seems that the dealership is still not up to speed on the hybrid model. They keep telling me to call Lexus directly. Disappointing.

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  Hang on for some excitement! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Don Panetti - November 15 - 11:46 am

  I have had the vehicle now for 3 years and the Goodyear Tires were the real downfall of the vehicle They were like skin at 20,000 miles. I really like the acceleration at any speed and the gas mileage is about 28 to 29 highway and anywhere from 26 to 31 in the city, depending on whether I drive on flat or hilly areas. The ride is not the best as the seats are too firm. Handling is great.

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  Fuel Economy? - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Lloyd - November 14 - 5:03 am

  I really enjoy the car, the SUV and the gadgets are fun. BUT, I have never got more than 24.5 mpg.. I thought that I would average at least 27 to 29 mpg, never happened.. I put at least 18,000 miles a year on a car,, not worth it if you are thinking about saving $$$ on fuel... Also the fuel tank could be larger...But I do love being green and doing my part to help save the world from polutants.. The drive, the comfort and the sitting up higher are thing I enjoy. If there was a place for a cell phone that woulsd also be nice.

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  NICE RIDE - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By GINA - May 1 - 5:06 am

  I love to drive my new lexus. I visit my local gas station about every three weeks. getting lost on the streets of long island is no longer possible. I love the bluetooth tech. My lexus drives like a dream, this is my first lexus.I like to get a new car every two years and will never buy any other make then lexus again..