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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Excellent combo of power and efficiency - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By tdt - April 14 - 5:00 pmMy wife loves our fully equipped RXh, which blends excellent performance with good economy. We are getting 26- 28mpg mixed driving around DFW compared with 20-22mpg with our old RX 330. Highway passing power is surprisingly strong. The Mark Levinson sound system is umsurpassed in this quiet and smooth vehicle. Very comfortable for our family of four.
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Great Hybrid - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By Dave in Prescott - January 14 - 8:16 amThis is a performance hybrid so we did not expect to get the stellar MPG people seem to expect from any hybrid (we own an 04 Prius too). Current MPG is 26 but it is still 30% better than the 2004 RX 330 we traded for it. This car is much quicker and quieter so the better MPG is a real plus. The power delivery is incredible and no more shift points!
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A perfect all around vehicle. - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By PJK - January 2 - 9:33 pmTook delivery on 05/25/05 noticed a thump (noise) in the floor by the drivers foot rest when you start up the vehicle (even in battery operation). I believe it is the engine starting when I go into reverse out of my driveway, more noticeable in the morning, cold engine. Live in Florida, I think it has to do with the A/C turning on the engine. I can also hear the engine engaging slightly at take off at stop lights. I have read other reviews & they said they could not notice this, when on the highway you dont notice it at all. Stopped by the dealer yesterday they said the noise is normal. This was from the hybrid trained technican.
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Is this really an SUV?? - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By King Kelly - November 28 - 9:33 pmUntil I was given an RX 330 as a loaner for the day when my car was in for service, I was adamant about never purchasing another SUV. In my previous experience with an SUV, I felt like a weeble whenever I drove it and was happy to get rid of it. What I cant get over is how comfortable my new R400h is to drive. It has a smoother ride than my SC430 had! I live in the Northeast and it plows through snow with effortless confidence, and when its raining it feels as if Im driving on dry pavement. The gas mileage, well, that speaks for itself.
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RX400h....gotta own one - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By Headless - November 25 - 3:00 pmThe RX400h represents a new era in automobile technology. The vehicle offers excellent performance with excellent fuel efficiency. If you have a lead foot, the efficiency will suffer, but youll still easily beat virtually all other SUVs on the market in regards to mpg. In terms of performance, 0-60 in under 7 seconds is sweet (its faster than Lexus numbers) and acceleration from 45-65 is more than impressive. The vehicle is adept at handling and cornering, with braking beyond belief. Navi, bluetooth, adaptive headlights, auto tailgate, etc ... the list goes on ... this car is packed with features ... compare it to anything on the market and youll get one...
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Reliable but the buy a self-battery jumper because the starter battery will die on you - 2008 Lexus RX 400H
By greyhounds3 - November 14 - 10:11 amI bought this used and the hybrid system was not explained to me at the dealership. I had to go to another dealership which took the time to explain the hybrid system to me. (I stayed a customer at that dealership) The starter battery dies in cold weather on a regular basis and also will die if the vehicle has not been driven for a week or so. Do yourself a favor and purchase a chargeable self-battery jumper, which will save you a lot of time waiting for AAA. I bought the hybrid to get better fuel economy. I havent seen the fuel economy of the Rx400h go above 26. The features and gadgets are simple and easy to use, and the seats are super comfortable.
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Goes - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By gordon thorpe - November 7 - 12:36 pmTHe RX400 flies like a rocket. Hard to hold down to 70. Gas mileage is excellent and navigation system is a real treat. Best car I have ever owned.
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Great Car! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By LLabrepotsirhc7 - November 2 - 3:26 amThe Lexus Rx400h is a great car. Nice interior, comfy seats and I love the power liftgate. The 4-month wait for us was worth it! It has a lot of power and is very fuel efficient. We love it and would recommend it any day. Toyota/Lexuss build quality and reliability is great! We look at all other Mid-Size Luxury SUVs and found this to be the best, and it is!
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Absolutely the best in its class! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By Dr. D - October 26 - 7:56 amGreat vehicle! Above expectations! We were concerned about purchasing the "New Technology" of the Hybrid, but, NO COMPLAINTS! Its awesome to drive! It does take a little getting use to but, in no time, youll LOVE driving it. When the engine shuts off and youre on nothing but battery, the vehicle is quiet as a mouse. My son calls this Stealth Mode. The looks you get are funny, they see you moving, but hear nothing. They cant figure it out. The vehicle runs smooth and quiet during normal operation, you dont notice the engine shutting down or reengaging, there is NO hesitation what-so-ever. The transmission is superb! One gear, smooth and fast! It just doesnt get better than this!
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Outstanding - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
By Lexus RX 400h - September 20 - 2:56 amVehicle is a delight.
