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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  RX400h a mixed bag - 2007 Lexus RX 400H
  By Robert - February 1 - 2:03 am

  The navigation system is impossibly complicated - and Im a PhD Professional Engineer! It is simply illogical. The cargo space is disappointingly shallow. The screen is unreadable in bright daylight. But the performance is good and very reliable. However, as a Mercedes S-Class person, Lexus is outclassed!

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  2006 Lexus SUV RX400h - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Sandy Pringle - January 5 - 5:13 pm

  Probably the most powerful car Ive ever owned. The powerful feel of acceleration is just a bit scary at first as it is unexpected. This is a real luxury car with all the goodies. I wanted a hybrid, but declined the lightweight and somewhat flimsy feel of the other vehicles on the market.

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  My Mileage has been great - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Patrick - January 4 - 2:23 am

  I have read plenty of the consumer reviews, and seen plenty of people disappointed with the MPG. Not me. I live in Chicago and do a fair combination of highway/city driving combo to to/from work, and I have got no less than 29 mpg per tank. I can usually get 450+ miles out of every fill up. Granted I have changed my driving habits a bit so that I can utilize the electric motor more, but I get to work at the same time, so I am not going any slower. I am really pleased with the vehicle since I have a VW Passat as well and this gets about 5-6 mpg better with more room (a lot of baby stuff), the higher driving experience (see the road better), outstanding features, and more oomph (for passing).

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  Value question - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Carter - December 24 - 9:50 pm

  This is my third Lexus, but first SUV. Brought the vehicle primary for the advertised mileage of 31 mpg combined. Im getting currently after 11,000 miles about 19.4. Most driving off freeway. Very disappointing. In addition, unlike other models, it has not kept its value. MSRP has dropped over $2,000. since I purchased it in April of 05. Inquires to Lexus have not been responded to concerning the mileage problem. Hate to say it is not worth the price.

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  Perfect All Purpose Vehicle - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By David - December 7 - 9:30 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned regardless of price. Its quick, smooth and extremely solid. Im getting over 25 mpg on my first tank of gas driving at normal speeds on both highway and city. This is a great vehicle.

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  Designed for NYC - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By underpin - November 10 - 6:30 pm

  I used to have a ML 500 I filled up 3x a week (56 Gallons) , with the RX400 1 time (15 gallons) . Much more comfortable, Power is very good. Had to get used to no gear shifts, moves well to 110mph. For the price cant be beat.

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  Goodyear tires dont do it! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By riverside - October 17 - 12:36 am

  This is my second Lexus SUV - my first hybrid - and I am sorry I did not stay with the RX350. The hybrid attraction doesnt live up to expectations simply because the battery vents take up valuable floor storage space and the weight of the battery over time causes the Goodyear tires to chop making the vehicle ride extremely rough. I was just told that my second set of new tires (put on after 15,000 miles) are not wearing properly. I have a little over 30,000 miles on the car. I have written to Lexus; however, my past attempt to get them involved on this issue, took a village and eventually they deferred me to Goodyear. Goodyear refused to do anything this time.

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  The best SUV we have owned - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Geoff D - October 13 - 11:00 pm

  We own BMWs and Mercedes and this was our first Lexus. Overall it is my wifes favorite vehicle ever. Ride is superb, build quality and design excellent and lots of interior space. It has recorded on average 25mpg and is wonderfully quiet even under hard acceleration. Fabulous pickup in the 30 to 60 range. Our favorite vehicle to use on long runs from San Francisco to Seattle

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  HONEST review from a REAL owner!!! - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By Vic - September 26 - 12:13 pm

  Ive owned several Lexus vehicles and this is by far a major disappointment!! With promises of great performance, comfort and fuel economy in one package, I was very enamored by the idea, but so far its been just that: EMPTY PROMISES and nothing more!! The engine is VERY NOISY even under moderate acceleration, and at full throttle it sounds like a CHAIN SAW, which is very UNCHARACTERISTIC of a Luxury vehicle, let alone a Lexus (which is supposed to be the epitome of quietness!!) Even with my "fuel saving" driving technique I have yet to see gas mileage over 23mpg!! The ride is stiff and the steering feels a bit vague. Simply not worth the 50 large I spent!! Will be trading for a GX shortly

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  Getting old and still working well - 2006 Lexus RX 400H
  By erik36 - September 21 - 4:42 am

  I am not much of a car buff, but after looking at the reviews thought I would check in about my car at 130,000 miles. No problems. Gets 27+ mpg on my 45 mi/hr commute which is flat and allows for coasting. As I read the reviews, I see that the biggest complaint is repair costs. I expect that that is the way it is with all Lexuses. However, I have not had any, except recalls which were free (in cost and hassle factor). Love this car.