Used 2006 Lexus RX 400h Consumer Reviews

Great Car!

The 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/Lexus's 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!

Incredibly Wonderful!

Have taken her in for all required maintenance & she still runs like a dream. Sweet & comfortable to drive, great hybrid gas’s mileage, electronic features ahead of her time.

Drove off sales lot and never had to return Dealer

"New tech"; bought a new SUV Lexus HYBRID 400h in 2006 even the sales people could not predict performance over the future (some unknows but our second Lexus so drove off with confidence. Two small recalls....carpet and something under the hood...in and out and they washed the vehicle. Took a photo of the two service personnel. Let see its May 2021 only just turned "100K miles"....Jiffy Lube at Car Wash. Still looks and smells new (Retiree 25 years still in California....yelps!!!)

Love it

I have had the RX 400h for 2 years now and my wife and I love it. The power and quick acceleration when needed was a surprise. The turning radius is extremely small and steering is the best I've ever had on any vehicle. I think the ride is exceptional and quiet. My first experience with a hybrid and it has exceeded my expectation.

Lexus 400h

Rides high in the saddle with great visibility and suspension; superlative interior and more pep than I expected. The cornering and handling are excellent. This vehicle has just about every option that one could desire in a luxury vehicle with gas mileage that is unparallelled in such a large vehicle. Price reduction and more info on tax credit for 2006 would be helpful.

Loving it

I purchased a used 400h this past weekend and love it. Very smooth riding, the hybrid technology is great. I drove to the dealer in a lincoln aviator getting 14 mpg, on the way home in the city 30 on the highway 28.6 mpg. It feels good inside, just to the point and runs well. Very happy with the choice and getting a preowned with low mileage saved a ton on the cost. Get the navigation, well worth it.

RX 400h Review

The vehicle has been 100% reliable. The longest I have driven at one time is 900 miles and it was not tiring. Fuel economy is good, around 30 mpg local driving, 32 mpg at 60 mph on highway, 26 mpg at 70 mph on highway. It is reasonably quiet on the highway with the Michelin tires. Looks like first set of tires will last 45,000 miles.

Love this Hybrid

This is my first Lexus. I have had a Caddy DeVille, Acura, and Honda Accord in a previous life. This SUV seating is so comfortable and the navigation system is a joy. It's fun to drive and handles very well. My husband loves the 400H also. We are getting over 25 mph combined fuel and hybrid and we just got the car earlier this month. We expect improved mileage as we break her in.

Lexus Quality at its best

After driving a Range Rover for five years decided for a change. Wow the Lexus was great compared to it. I had a lot of electronic problems with the Range Rover which was a reliability issue. From what I have heard Lexus is a very reliable make. Fingers crossed!

Excellent car! Perfect choice for me.

I recently purchased a certified used '06 hybrid (the first my local dealership had), and I have to say I absolutely love this car! I had been keeping an eye out for a used one. I am really happy with everything so far, especially the mileage. Since mine has been already "broken in", I am averaging 28-29 mpg, granted I do a lot of street driving, so that helps. Everything I loved about my previous RX is here and many things have been improved, so I don't have any real complaints. The only thing that could be improved further is the nav system, in my opinion. I'd highly recommend this car.

Love my Lexi!

I am truly enjoying my RX400h! I am still in the "learning phase" as there are so many advanced features- it's 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, I've actually gotten it up to just a little over 28mpg locally! Not bad for an SUV!! One thing that I don't like about it is where the rear tail lights are located. The bumper is made to be impact resistant, yet the light blows out. I've had to replace it after someone backed into me. Overall, I'm delighted with the RX400!

Another great Lexus product

This SUV has delivered on all counts. Excellent build quality, equipped almost the same as an LS430 and getting 27 MPG (manually calculated) combined fuel economy - 40:60 city and hwy. City MPG about 2 MPG better than hwy. Our 2002 RX300 averaged 18.1 MPG lifetime with the same driving habits so the hybrid has improved our fuel economy by 50%. It's an all around excellent vehicle.

This is the best car I've ever owned

I get 29-31 mpg of regular gas when I do mixed city and highway driving in this five-seat luxury SUV. I'm driving at posted speed limits. 29 mpg using the A/C or with a window open - it's 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. It's more powerful than the gas version. The combination of fuel efficiency, comfort and power is the way all cars should be. People who've ridden with me have been very surprised when they got out and I told them, "You've been riding in a hybrid." It's just a great car.

Let Those Gas Prices Rise

At 3300 miles we're averaging 29-30MPG in 50/50 mixed driving w/very rare AC.The temp's been 70 - 80, low humidity. Our driving style is reflected in the change in MPG - mine is about 1MPG higher than my Y-chromosome mate. For us it truly makes a difference in fuel efficiency. Although I don't drive like a little old lady, I tend to coast and anticipate much more than my husband. It makes driving like a video game. I try to see if I can adjust the mileage back up after he drives it (even though he has his own vehicle). Love the stealth mode in the city, love our dealer, love the reputation of Lexus. Great vehicle.

RX 400h

This is a really great car, I would recommend it to everyone, it is comfortable, sporty, fast, (when you need it) quiet, (so quiet I have forgotten to turn the engine off a couple of times). Definitely not a car for anyone who wants to save money on gas, the MPG is not great for a hybrid. I average around 24 MPG with mostly city driving. I bought a hybrid to help save the planet and to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels and I waited for an SUV style hybrid that was big enough to make it practical for my lifestyle. I am very happy with it except for the lousy gas mileage.

Yes, it's green...

The Lexus RX400h came with much hype and has lived up to all of it. Mileage in a 20 mile (one way) commute through some country roads and downtown driving has averaged 34 mpg without and 31 with air conditioning. Lest someone thinks the car is being towed, I can vouch for its passing ability on curving back roads (where legal, of course.) The battery - gas handoff is seamless in both directions, and the car is eerily quiet at low speeds. The ride is superb and its comfort for 4 to 5 people is exemplary. The NY Times panned the car, but I'm still trying to figure out what the author's problem is - and it's not the car!

HONEST review from a REAL owner!!!

I've 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 it's 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

Lexus RX400h

Both of us really like this car. The only complaint is probably a common one - it does not live up to the EPA mileage estimate. Excepting the first 1000 miles, the next 550 miles averaged about 26.3 mpg, per the car's estimate and a bit less by actual miles vs amount of gas needed. Can't blame it on the way I drive because I always hit the EPA estimates on all the cars we own. Main advantage of the car is V-8 performance with regular gas and good mileage.

Lexus RX 400 H

The fuel economy was better in the city type driving. On highways, the gas mileage was disappointing.(The regular ones were better). The engine was noisier when pushed. It is excellent on gas mileage when driven gently i suburb type driving when driven at average speed of 35 to 40 mph. The a/c was just sufficiently cool but could be better on hot days.

Consider RX 350 before purchase

I got a RX 400h for the performance - at the time the 330 had 45 less HP, now with the 350 it has 2 Hp more. Don't think you're saving the planet with this car, it gets slightly better gas milage. BUT there are trade offs. For one the engine noise is so un-Lexus like, two, the transmission and brakes are different from normal cars. I WOULD HIGHLY SUGGEST- drive both 400h and 350 back to back, then if you're not convinced the 400 is still 5 Grand more. For 2007 350 has new NAV system and XM radio, bluetooth phone also avlb with out nav. I made a mistake and am thinking of trading in.

Our RX

Goodyear tires don't do it!

This is my second Lexus SUV - my first hybrid - and I am sorry I did not stay with the RX350. The hybrid attraction doesn't 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.

A New Driving Experience

After 10 months of driving the RX 400h I am sold on this car. I previously owned a non-hybrid Lexus RX 300 and the hybrid is so much more powerful and fun to drive. I am averaging 26 mpg which is more than adequate for the size and weight of this car. The challenge is to see how far you can coast on battery power in order to increase your mileage. This takes a light foot on acceleration as well as easy breaking. As with my 6 previous Lexus automobiles, this car has required no servicing to date and should prove to be very reliable. The acceleration is more like a V8 due to the combination of electric motors and gas engine. We've been to the mountains and had no problems on the hills.

RX 400h

Vehicle feels safe, comfortable and fast for an SUV. Holds the road well. Gets good mileage. Great for passing other vehicles. Love all the featuers such as side dimming mirrors, turning headlights, bright headlights, memory seats, tilting side mirror when backing up, rear camera.

Not perfect yet

This is a great car but I have four things that if changed would make it perfect! First, when entering I have to duck (I am 5'6") my head a little and it bothers my neck sometimes. Second, the second row seats don't fold flat and I have bulldogs that like to be level. Third, the back window is so slanted that the sun beats down and melts my groceries and overheats my dogs. And finally, I HATE the console with the push button open close system. My dogs step on it and fall in the console all the time. I would much prefer a large console with a padded hinged lift top. That would eliminate the fold down arm rests which I find a nuisance.

Love my new lexus

I just traded in my 2000 RX 300 and have been waiting for 5 months. The wait was well deserved, every aspect of the 400h has improved. The gas milage I've been experiencing has been consistent with other owners about 24 mpg in the city, I haven't thouroughly tested it on the hwy. yet but expect the same results. The gas milage s actually very good given the weight and size of the 400h i wasn't disappointed because I had realistic expectations.

Outstanding

Vehicle is a delight.

Leaks and brake issues

This vehicle purchase was the worst I have made. The Lexus leaks when it rains. The drivers side floorboard gets soaking wet. I've read many reports of this happening. Also, the ABS system malfunctions often and the constant repairs are exensive. Definitely will not buy a Lexus again. It's not worth the money.

Love it!

My husband and I wanted an SUV and the Lexus RX 400h was an obvious choice. It doesn't take premium fuel like comprable models which adds to the gas affordability of driving a hybrid. I previously drove a BMW 330xi and thought that the transition to an SUV would be remarkable, however the Lexus is built on a Camry frame, so I don't feel as though I am towering over other vehicles. The only obstacle we have experienced was that the cross bars are not stable enough for a bike rack, so those must be purchased and installed. Also, a towing hitch can only be optained as a post-factory dealer installation for around $7000. Consider your recreational requirements before purchase.

Can recommend

Good place to buy cars

What a car!

I've 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 I've ever driven and it is actually fun to drive it!The ride is as smooth as glass. This car doesn't 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.

Not the mileage that was promised

Although the 400h is very comfortable and fun to drive it, is not as promised as far as the mileage is concerned. I'm getting 21 miles a gallon and I do mostly city driving. I use my car for work that's why I got a hybrid to save money. Unless they correct this I would not recommend if your goal is to save on gas.

My new Lexus 400h

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.

So far so good

Great car and fun to drive. Don't buy it if you are simply focused on gas mileage. My average after 3 months of regular driving is 24.2 MPG. Great for SUV but does not compare to Prius. Price tag is high but if you like gadgets this is the car for you.

My favorite vehicle yet

It is quiet, like driving a big sofa, and quick-handling and powerful when you need it. Handles and corners well, with a very good turning radius. It is fun to drive and all of the controls and panel operations are intuitive and easy to use. The in-city mpg is more like 26 than the 31 advertised.

Very Satisfied

I have a 2006 RX400h AWD with 53,000 miles on it. I do 80% of my driving in the Seattle Bellevue area and 20% on interstates (mostly between Seattle and Portland). Depending on the season, I get 22-25 mpg in combined city and highway driving and 28-31 mpg on the Interstate. I consistently get 30-31 mpg between Seattle and Portland. This is my 3rd RX and am waiting to see the 2009/10 model. I haven't had any major problems and service at the manufactures recommend intervals.

Superb overall car

Pluses: Great acceleration (noticeably quicker than my old RX 300). Superb FM sound (with the optional Marc Levinson system). Powered rear lift gate is very handy. Minuses: So-so fuel economy; again it's better than my old Lexus, but this in NOT the car you want if you're looking for exceptional mileage. I'm getting about 24 MPG, but I drive with a lead foot. Overall, a superb car. (Based on 3 months and about 3000 miles).

Lexus hybrid

The reliability of toyota products in a top of the line luxury suv. Drives smoothly, quietly but has also thought of everything that you need. I'm actually blown away with the performance and fun of having this car.

Great Hybrid SUV

So far, I'm very happy with the car. It's got about 1300 miles on it (mix of city and highway), and is averaging 26 mpg (in real life). Not quite the 31/27 reported by Lexus, but nevertheless pretty good when it comes to SUVs. My wifes's GX only gets around 14 or 15. I have noticed that having the AC on during a hot day will tend to decrease the mpg. The car has all the nifty gadgets that you could want. The navigation is particulary nice, although it may be wrong on occassion. I would have liked a wood trim option instead of the aluminum trim (wood is nicer on the steering wheel). The automated engine start/stop takes a little getting used to, especially during hard acceleration.

Truly Awesome

This is a great car, inside and out. It's unbelievably quick at all speeds, incredibly smooth and quiet. I love this car.

Exceptional Vehicle

I have owned the RX 400h since late April. I like just about everything about this SUV. It is a lot of fun to drive and it performs terrifically. Passing on the interstates is a breeze even at high speeds of greater than 80mph. It takes off like a "rocket". It is very quiet and comfortable. But most of all, I am elated with the gas mileage I am getting. The average mpg in the city has been better than the EPA estimate of 31. In fact, on one test recently, I averaged a whopping 40 mpg on pure city driving of 27.5 miles. This was without the AC on but I am still amazed. Obviously, one cannot drive like a hot rod to get this type of mileage. I get about 27-28 on the highway. Coasting helps a lot.

Simply Fantastic

The car has much more power at all ranges than I expected -- unbelievably quick. It's also incredibly quiet and holds the road really well. Great build quality and fit and finish. I've even getting about 27 mpg in my first few hundred miles, and it apparently improves after about 5,000 miles. It's perfect.

Perfect All Purpose Vehicle

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

Have luxury and save gas at as well

I have had my RX 400h for nearly 3 weeks and I have fallen completely in love with it. I have driven just over 1,000 miles and I am still on the original tank of gas I got when I drove it away. The operation is seamless. What fun to be able to drive in luxury and save gas at the same time.

BAD MPG

This SUV should not be called a Hybrid. It does not do well on MPG. Not even close to the Sticker info.

Fantastic SUV

This is the best all-around vehicle I've ever owned, regardless of price. Great pick up, smooth, solid drive, and I'm getting over 25 mpg on my first tank of gas. Perfect.

Review 2 - after winter

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.

Does it worth $10K over the RX 330?

Disappointed with the interior of the dashboard and steering wheel--the RX 300 looks more impressive. The Navigation screen is hard to see during sunny days due to glare (at nights it is wonderful). Overall gas mileage for the first 1,000 miles is about 26mpg, even though we drove more in city thn on the highway. This figure is about 35% better than the RX 300, but not what Lexus claims.

Perfect Car

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

Great SUV

Great SUV...smooth, fun, good MPG, nicely equipped, quiet, everyone likes it.