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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  Easy, reliable and handy sport SUV - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By jukka - May 4 - 4:20 pm

  Very nice to drive and economical too. When accelerating strong the steering wheel has too much "feelings" like front wheel dive car. Very handy to fold the rear seats. In winter inside gets warm quicker thän normal engine. Fine car and not a one problem during the first year.

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  Great Ride - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Dick - April 23 - 1:53 am

  I just got my 400h..It is awesome. The performance is wondeful. Fast off the start and kind on the fuel. 27.3 mpg on my first tank. It seems funny at first when the engine shuts down at a stop light, but no loss when it turns green. The integration of the powertain and the smooth ride are wonderful. Lexus has hit this one out of the park....I love it......

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  Love my new lexus - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By 2006 rx400h review - April 5 - 7:46 pm

  I just traded in my 2000 RX 300 and have been waiting for 5 months. The wait was well deserved, every aspect of the 400h has improved. The gas milage Ive been experiencing has been consistent with other owners about 24 mpg in the city, I havent thouroughly tested it on the hwy. yet but expect the same results. The gas milage s actually very good given the weight and size of the 400h i wasnt disappointed because I had realistic expectations.

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  Best Car Buying Decision for us - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By Robert - February 28 - 1:13 pm

  We drive this car on bumper to bumper traffic daily about 30 miles round trip. We are averaging about 28 MPG on it. It has been a real pleasure to drive. We currently have 5000 miles on it and use it almost exclusively anytime we need to go anywhere. Has good pep and the gearless transmission is very smooth. Lexus provided the first 2 maintenance free. I looked at the book however nothing needs maintenance other than the traditional engine. The batteries are warranted for 9 years.

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  Lexus RX 400h 2008 - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By Syed Warsi - February 26 - 12:46 am

  On the road it is a master. Complete grip on the road. Very quiet except for small tire noise. Variable transmission system does not gives a smooth takeoff from stop.

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  MPG overrated - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Dave Clifford - February 18 - 9:36 am

  If you expect the 27-31 mpg this vehicle claims, you better not run the AC. Actual mileage for the first 500 miles=23.6 mpg. This may be OK for the rest of the country, but in SW Florida where you run the AC all the time, I recommend the regular RX330.

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  Lexus 400h experience - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Bob Carpenter - January 7 - 7:06 pm

  Very quiet vehicle. Supprising mid range acceleration. Handles very well for SUV. We have been averaging just a little over 26mpg on regular unleaded. 90% of our driving is in town. Super tight turning radius, parks like a small car. As we live in the Chicago area we have found this vehicle performs very well in ice and snow conditions.

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  Loving it - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By trey - December 18 - 11:56 pm

  I purchased a used 400h this past weekend and love it. Very smooth riding, the hybrid technology is great. I drove to the dealer in a lincoln aviator getting 14 mpg, on the way home in the city 30 on the highway 28.6 mpg. It feels good inside, just to the point and runs well. Very happy with the choice and getting a preowned with low mileage saved a ton on the cost. Get the navigation, well worth it.

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  Love this Hybrid - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Joyce - December 13 - 7:16 pm

  This is my first Lexus. I have had a Caddy DeVille, Acura, and Honda Accord in a previous life. This SUV seating is so comfortable and the navigation system is a joy. Its fun to drive and handles very well. My husband loves the 400H also. We are getting over 25 mph combined fuel and hybrid and we just got the car earlier this month. We expect improved mileage as we break her in.

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  Economy or performance? - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By richard - December 9 - 9:30 am

  I have had my Rx 400h for a little less than a month now. It is quiet, smooth, and full of neat little extras like the nav system. It is definately a much faster car than either my old RX 300 or a new RX 330. Comparison to a V8 is accurate. Right now, my biggest issue is whether or not it will deliver on its promised fuel economy. While highway mileage is about what you might expect (26-27 mpg), in city has been disappointing so far (22-23). Lexus has checked the car out and says that it is working properly. They also ask us to give it through the break-in period before we assess the fuel economy. I would be interested in the experience of any other 400h owners regarding fuel economy.