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:

• 

  What a car! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Joanna - January 4 - 10:33 pm

  Ive never cared much for cars, but this one has changed my mind. It has such a solid, safe feel to it. It looks like a van that took steroids and not the typical monster SUV. It certainly drives better than any van or car Ive ever driven and it is actually fun to drive it!The ride is as smooth as glass. This car doesnt know it is going up steep hills either. It eats them. The gas engine cuts out at lights and in traffic, and while this took a bit of getting used to-the silence makes it seem as though it has stalled- I feel better about the car not spewing unecessary gas into the atmosphere.

• 

  Perfect Car - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Grace - January 3 - 7:33 pm

  My husband purchased the 400h and loves it, as do I. Its incredibly quick and is getting solid mpg -- about 26.5 mpg. He got side tubes and it looks great -- who said its a chicks car?

• 

  Fantastic SUV - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Elise - December 30 - 6:03 pm

  I love the handling, the quick pick-up and the strong mileage. This is a very solid car.

• 

  Great SUV, Very Good MPG - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Nate - December 27 - 5:00 pm

  I got my 400h about two weeks ago and Ive getting about 27 mpg overall, driving under normal condictions. I live in the Bay Area so cold weather really isnt a factor. I love this car! Its incredibly quiet, has a very solid build quality and feel, and handles great. Its still early, but I couldnt be happier with the purchase.

• 

  My new Lexus 400h - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By C SWEET - December 20 - 3:06 am

  My brand new Lexus 400h is an exciting car to own and drive. Having the GPS system is like having a friend along for the ride. She never gets frustrated with my choice of turns, just picks up from my new location. The pick-up at acceleration makes it exciting to drive. Watching the trickle use of energy has made me a better driver, as far as how I use the accelerator. I can actually affect the mileage in my favor. This car handles like a dream, a big improvement from my RX 300,2000.

• 

  I would buy it again. - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By Alex Azev - December 17 - 8:06 pm

  Great SUV, best ride ever. Could have more room between the front seats. Good gas mileage, not as expected but good enough. Ive been driving it since February/06 and cant get over how quiet it is. Im never tired of driving this car.

• 

  Most significant change auto tech 50yrs - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By chrisw8595 - December 13 - 9:50 pm

  Amazing grace! It has everything, luxury, mileage, and pick up! Every gadget and comfort. Like Bentley or RR started over and built the best SUV they could ever imagine, and outdid themselves. I am second in line (here in FL) for the new Lexus GS 430 with Hybrid technology coming out next spring. All Lexus will have Hybrid engine by end of 2007. All auto makers will have to run to catch up!

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By El Paso - December 13 - 11:30 am

  I owned a 2004 RX330. Lexus has not changed much in the area of style which is a good thing. The highest millage I have seen is 31mpg. My average is 27.6 mpg. The power is great. I do find myself driving with more sense trying to get the best MPG which is also a good thing.

• 

  Another Great Lexus - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By mitch-B - December 9 - 3:20 pm

  Our 7th Lexus. I just got the car a week ago and Im getting about 25 mpg. Someone said that theyve seen returns of 26 mpg w/hard driving but Im not seeing that. Its louder (the acoustic glass helps only so much) but its a hoot to drive. CONS: Inability to navigate or dial the phone while on the move. Really, my passenger could perform these distracting tasks. Lexus should trust their consumers more. (ACURA does!) Also, the higher insurance costs will offset any gas mileage or resale benefit even for someone with an impecable insurance risk profile. FINALLY: This isnt a car for the altruistic its for those who want their cake and eat it and their neighbors too ;)

• 

  This is the best car Ive ever owned - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Jim Cowan - December 6 - 11:13 pm

  I get 29-31 mpg of regular gas when I do mixed city and highway driving in this five-seat luxury SUV. Im driving at posted speed limits. 29 mpg using the A/C or with a window open - its amazing how an open window increases drag. The mileage is great - but I also get an extremely quiet, comfortable ride and when I want to pass a truck then I put my foot down and this thing really flies. Its more powerful than the gas version. The combination of fuel efficiency, comfort and power is the way all cars should be. People whove ridden with me have been very surprised when they got out and I told them, "Youve been riding in a hybrid." Its just a great car.