Lexus RX 400h Review

2008 Lexus RX 400h 4dr SUV

Those wishing to fly their "green" flag in the lap of luxury now have a willing ally in which to strut their stuff. With its advanced gasoline/electric drivetrain, the Lexus RX 400h SUV marries 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 uses a hybrid powertrain system that combines a gasoline-fueled V6 engine with a battery pack and electric motor generators. Similar to the hybrid setups on other Toyota products, the 400h can seamlessly accelerate on battery power alone during light acceleration. It also boasts a generous 286 horsepower overall, giving it impressive performance along with superior fuel economy ratings.

The Lexus RX 400h crossover is the only true luxury hybrid SUV, and it comes packaged with all the normal RX traits like premium interior amenities and a smooth ride. But potential SUV buyers simply wishing to go green may also want to check out other, less extravagant hybrids if price is a consideration.

Current Lexus RX 400h

The Lexus RX 400h midsize luxury SUV comes 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 include leather trim, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a moonroof, a navigation system with a backup camera and 18-inch wheels. An audio package with a Mark Levinson DVD audio system is also available.

Under the sheet metal, the 400h's hybrid drivetrain combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with a 288-volt nickel metal battery pack and high-torque, electric-drive motor-generators. Driving through a continuously variable transmission, the 400h produces 268 hp and boasts a 0-60-mph time of less than 8 seconds for standard and all-wheel-drive models. Keeping you safe are standard front, side-curtain and driver-knee airbags, as well as stability and traction control and a rollover sensor.

Inside there's a streamlined, modern cabin with aluminum accents, bright-ringed gauges and a touchscreen that details the hybrid's gas-electric power generation split. A sliding and reclining split rear seat optimizes passenger comfort, and a power liftgate provides access to nearly 85 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. A third-row seat is not available.

Once underway, the Lexus RX 400h drives much like its traditional gas-powered sibling, and although the electric motors don't provide the same lusty soundtrack of a performance car, acceleration is certainly spirited. The 400h's ride is soft and compliant, yet the handling is also generally tight and precise, a surprise given the 300 extra pounds of curb weight. But you can definitely feel that extra weight in faster corners and quick transitions. Our editors also noticed a good deal of engine noise entering the cabin under hard acceleration, as the hybrid system forces the V6 to regularly spin right up to redline.

Past Lexus RX 400h Models

The hybrid-powered Lexus RX 400h luxury SUV debuted in 2006.

SELECT A SPECIFIC LEXUS RX 400H MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.