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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  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.

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  Lexus RX400h - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Ardene - April 25 - 8:00 pm

  This vehicle is not only green and gas efficient but it is also fun to drive. I am short and this car easily adjusts to my driving comfort. There are no shortage of luxury features. Steering is relaxed and easy, nav system is excellent, and comfort is outstanding. I find the visibility to be good, with fewer blind spots than my last SUV. Lexus appears to done everything right with the vehicle.

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  A home run for "green" vehicles - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Darryl - February 26 - 2:50 pm

  In my first month of ownership I have not found anything that I dislike, and for me thats unusual! The vehicle is a joy to drive and a real attention- getter. I was somewhat skeptical at first about the CVT as I expected it to be sluggish and ungainly, but after just a few miles I completely forgot that it wasnt a 4- or 5-speed automatic. I really like the fact that I can monitor fuel economy while driving and adjust my driving habits to maximize it. As far as Im concerned, Lexus hit a real home run with this one, and it was well worth the 8 month wait from the time I originally ordered it.

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  Combination of fun and milage - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By Dr Var - February 8 - 1:50 am

  Great for long rides and everyday drives. Absolutely love the feeling of CVT and can see the vehicles on the other lanes disappear in my mirrors with out the feeling of gear change.

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  Moved down from Expedition - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By dgb - January 26 - 7:06 am

  I bought my RX 400h after much research and thought. Lexus name plate puts some back (you bought a Lexus??) but the hybrid part really perks up ears. I even got a statement "you never seemed like the hybrid type!" Mileage is good, fun to watch the gauge, wish it had backup alarm, camera is good. Prev issues have been addressed: nav is outstanding (not grainy), SAT is now available, discrete word Hybrid on side says enough. Power is amazing when you need it. Friends all want a ride, never had that in any other car. Takes a bit of getting used to wind down at stops, and lack of motor noise at start up, but not a problem. A/C keeps going even with gas motor off. Great car.

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  Amazing - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Phil Hansen - December 1 - 11:56 pm

  Car is exceptional. It is quiet, comfortable and the mileage is great. I notice that by adjusting your driving you can improve mileage. In a recent 80 mile expressway trip I averaged 27.5 mpg going just under 70 mph. In the city, I have gotten as much as an average of 35 mpg. This is nearly double the mileage of my last car, a 2002 RX 300. With gas prices now so high, I feel like I have the best of both worlds. I can keep driving an SUV and get great gas mileage as the same time. Plus the car is a dream to drive.

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  Dont buy nav system - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By careful - October 24 - 6:00 am

  This is a great car, but dont bother buying the nav system. The system is virtually disabled when the car is moving. You cannot input anything into the system unless you pull over and stop the vehicle. This bug makes the system almost useless. Buy a portable Garmin unit instead, it will save you money and frustration!