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:

• 

  The perfect car for us. - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Hawaii Quayles - February 18 - 10:06 am

  After reading all the low MPG ratings every one was getting we were very happy to see that its all in how you drive it. We average arround 27 mpg per tank. On freeway trips of around 30 miles we can get over 34 mpg. You have to learn how to save some gas when you drive this car and it will be worth every penny. Our models here in Hawaii are a little less money because we dont have a NAV system and cant even order it. Aside from lacking the back up camera, we have had no problems with visibility as some have mentioned. The quality materials used in this SUV are amazing, we will definitely be buying another Lexus.

• 

  New to us - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
  By John - February 14 - 2:00 pm

  We purchased a 2008 pre-owned certified 400H with 18,100 miles on it. It is pristine. Have driven it a week now and am getting 28.2 MPG around town and on the highway combined. Have had no problems. It is fun to drive and is very comfortable. I see some reviews stating poor mileage. Not here. If you want to drive it like a regular car, quick acceleration, high speeds, you will get the performance of a regular car. I had to learn to drive the hybrid properly and it is great. It has plenty of power, amazing actually. The only down side so far is the audio on AM stations. FM is excellent. AM sounds "tinny" though. So far, e love the car.

• 

  Long term REview 2006 Lexus RX400h - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By kimcanada - February 13 - 12:02 am

  Long term results report. I had my invertor replaced september 3, 2010. So far it has been bullet proof. Toyota fixed this $10,000 repair for free. Basically it is a faulty invertor , recall # 87559 June 29, 2011. This was at 64,000 miles and I am now at 96,000 miles with everything working well. I had to do the timing belt, tensioners, water pump , as part of the recommended 90,000 mile maintenance. I also had to do a radiator and front control arm bushings so this was a major bill. I did switch tires to Yokohama Paradas so the car rides very well but thye are not the longest lasting tires. Gotta figure if there is a cheaper way than a lexus dealer. But in thinking of doing all this work I decided this is a overall very reliable car and worth doing as the car rides well, looks good, and is nice to drive. I figure the Prius s I have seen used as cabs are going over 300,000 miles so there is some precedent for long term ownership. Yes I would buy one again ( and I guess by fixing it I am planning another 90,000 miles , I hope ! )

• 

  If you can afford it.... - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By cltaylor12 - February 8 - 4:33 pm

  The style of the Lexus 400h Hybrid is excellent (the same as the RX330). If you can afford it, it is worth the purchase. Otherwise, if you need more room for children and cargo, go with the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Both use the same technology. Also, be sure to get the navigation system; it is $2,000 but worth having.

• 

  Review 2 - after winter - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By W.U. - January 30 - 12:33 pm

  I reviewed this car last October and have follow-up comments after a winter of New England driving. Mileage dropped about 3 mpg for both city and highway in winter conditions (I got about 24 highway, 28 city). This Spring I have reverted to the Fall mileage which is right on the EPA numbers, though I drive with the windows down and usually avoid AC.

• 

  actual mpg - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By danettem - January 26 - 8:26 am

  Ive been driving my RX 400h for six weeks/2200 miles. I am averaging 22 mpg, NOT the 31 mpg Lexus is advertising. The car drives beautifully and has plenty of power, but it is not getting the fuel economy I hoped from a hybrid. If you want to encourage hybrid technology and not sacrifice luxury, its a great car. If youre truly interested in saving gas, this isnt the car for you.

• 

  Love my Lexi! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Michele in CT - January 26 - 12:06 am

  I am truly enjoying my RX400h! I am still in the "learning phase" as there are so many advanced features- its virtually a computer on wheels! I am also learning a different driving style. Regular cars perform best by keeping a steady foot on the gas pedal. The 400h requires you to "flutter" your foot and learn to coast, when possible. By doing this, Ive actually gotten it up to just a little over 28mpg locally! Not bad for an SUV!! One thing that I dont like about it is where the rear tail lights are located. The bumper is made to be impact resistant, yet the light blows out. Ive had to replace it after someone backed into me. Overall, Im delighted with the RX400!

• 

  Power, Grace and Beauty - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Howard - January 16 - 9:00 pm

  I love my RX 400h. It has great power and control -- a definite luxury vehicle which just happens to be environmentally friendly. The only drawback is that the actual mileage is lower than advertised -- I am getting combined 24-25 mpg, and probably 23 mpg in very cold weather. Real driving and not on a test site produces much lower results than promoted and that was disappointing. Even so, this vehicle is pure bliss to drive and I am not noticing any significant engine noise as reported in other reviews. Drive it and enjoy.

• 

  Outstanding vehicle - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By bainse - January 11 - 9:03 pm

  I am extremely happy with this vehicle. Luxury in every sense of the word, fun to drive, and great for the environment. MPG is about 25% better than any comparable SUV (doesnt get 31 MPG under actual driving conditions, but so what?) and is super-ultra low emissions vehicle. Lexus service also is second to none...treats customers like royalty.

• 

  Exceeds Expectations - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By W.U. - January 8 - 11:10 pm

  One should expect a lot from a luxury car, especially when paying full MSRP. This vehicle exceeds all expectations. Im getting exactly the EPA mileage ratings of 31 city, 27 highway. Technical gadgetry is useful and operates flawlessly. Ride is smooth and as comfortable as my old Lincoln (this is my first SUV, so there was some trepidation). There have been many pleasant surprises and nothing unpleasant.