Used 2006 Lexus RX 400h Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Is this really an SUV??
Until 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 can't 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 it's raining it feels as if I'm driving on dry pavement. The gas mileage, well, that speaks for itself.
Awesome Hybrid
I just got this great SUV, and I love almost everything about it. Quiet, comfortable, has great acceleration, and almost excellent fuel economy.
- Base Hybrid 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995165 mi away
- Base Hybrid 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,995185 mi away
- Base Hybrid 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,481205 mi away
The 'quiet' one...
This vehicle is better than my previous 2004 LX 470 in the following ways. It is more powerful, faster, more surefooted and stable in handling & driveability. The lack of transmission noise from constant downshifting makes for a very quiet ride. The seats are almost as comfortable than the LX 470 but the 400h steering wheel cover is very slippery, I would like to see an upgrade 'wood' like in the 470.
Great SUV, Very Good MPG
I got my 400h about two weeks ago and I've getting about 27 mpg overall, driving under normal condictions. I live in the Bay Area so cold weather really isn't a factor. I love this car! It's incredibly quiet, has a very solid build quality and feel, and handles great. It's still early, but I couldn't be happier with the purchase.
Quiz dealer about concerns BEFORE buying
Traded in BMW X5 for the Lexus. Handles well; front seats less comfortable than BMW. Nice nav system. Rear blind spot not helped by camera which has distortion. When I picked up car, alesman told me "just learned" I should use premium gas - and not to expect decent mileage until at least 5,000 miles. Rear seats recline (slightly) - nice feature, but reduces already small cargo space. No light in small glove compartment and no logical place for loose change. Sound system much better than BMW. Very quiet drive and excellent acceleration. No wood makes car stark.
love my lexus
I just got this 4 days ago, and I already love it. I traded a sedan that "REQUIRED" the highest octane fuel and love this gas effeciency - much better than my sedan, and loads better than my friends with SUV's, plus you don't have to give up luxury.
disappointing fuel economy
I'm averaging 20 mpg for city driving, NOT the 31 mpg advertised by Lexus. I'm very disappointed in the fuel economy. The car is great to drive and has the Lexus luxury feel, but for $10,000 less I could have the same qualities with an RX330.
Novice
It's a great car to drive. It's comfortable and smooth to drive. The only problem I have is the mileage/gallon is not what I expected. It falls way short of what was advertised.
Most significant change auto tech 50yrs
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!
A home run for "green" vehicles
In my first month of ownership I have not found anything that I dislike, and for me that's unusual! The vehicle is a joy to drive and a real attention- getter. I was somewhat skeptical at first about the CVT as I expected it to be sluggish and ungainly, but after just a few miles I completely forgot that it wasn't a 4- or 5-speed automatic. I really like the fact that I can monitor fuel economy while driving and adjust my driving habits to maximize it. As far as I'm concerned, Lexus hit a real home run with this one, and it was well worth the 8 month wait from the time I originally ordered it.
Absolutely the best in it's class!
Great 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 doesn't get better than this!
Awesome Vehicle
The long wait for the RX400h has been more than worth it. I have only been driving it for just a few days, but all I can say is wow, what a vehicle! The power and acceleration is incredible for an SUV with a V6. It is also very quiet (sometimes totally silent), and comfortable. I would say though that the most surprising finding to this point is that I believe (from testing so far) the EPA estimate of 31 mpg (city driving) probably can be beaten if one is careful with the accelerator. I am saying pleasant surprise since I had been hearing from message boards, etc, that it will not attain EPA estimates. Wrong! The highway mileage so far has averaged at about 27 mpg. Lexus has a new big hit.
Practical Power & Grace
After three months and 3,000 miles I can accurately describe this vehicle as practically perfect. It combines exhilerating power when you need it (especially from 50-70 mph when you are passing) and amazing average fuel economy (25.8 mpg so far). On top of that, it has the seemless integration of a multitude of creature comforts. It's as close as I will ever get to knowing what it is like to pilot a stealth bomber (Flint Mica/Black leather).
Amazing
Car is exceptional. It is quiet, comfortable and the mileage is great. I notice that by adjusting your driving you can improve mileage. In a recent 80 mile expressway trip I averaged 27.5 mpg going just under 70 mph. In the city, I have gotten as much as an average of 35 mpg. This is nearly double the mileage of my last car, a 2002 RX 300. With gas prices now so high, I feel like I have the best of both worlds. I can keep driving an SUV and get great gas mileage as the same time. Plus the car is a dream to drive.
Goes
THe 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.
Changing from an RX 330
the difference is remarkable. better performance, excellent response, and the rest is the same.
Riding on the wind
I had a Lexus RX 300. It saved my life in an accident four years ago in Florida. I had no second thought as to quality and safety when I traded in my RX 300 for my new 400h. It will take a little time to get use to turning the key and not hearing a sound like a regular gas powered RX. It will also take some time to get use to the backup camera and rear door that opens with the push of a button . Now if I can only find someone that will drive "Me" around in it so I can sit back in the rear reclining seats , and watch a dvd on the entertainment system !
First Impressions
The Lexus 400h hybrid is a very luxuriously appointed SUV with peppy acceleration and a smooth comfortable ride. This is the first year of hybrid technology although it is not unproven being used in the Toyota Prisus for the past couple years and in Japan. My only disappointment is that the mileage rating is not sufficient enough to get you into the California car pool lanes.
Wonderful Vehicle
Incredible vehicle that runs extremely smooth. I have never enjoyed a car as much as this one. Gas mileage is between 25 and 27 MPG. Overall, I highly recommend this car.
Great Car
Great car. I previously owned an 04 RX330 and although it was a very good car, 400h is even better. Great performance combined with excellent fuel economy.
Lexus 400H
Fun to drive, very comfortable, quality throughout, my experience with Toyota products has been excellent. The 400 H has great pickup and I do not notice any engine noise? It is very quiet.
Power, Grace and Beauty
I love my RX 400h. It has great power and control -- a definite luxury vehicle which just happens to be environmentally friendly. The only drawback is that the actual mileage is lower than advertised -- I am getting combined 24-25 mpg, and probably 23 mpg in very cold weather. Real driving and not on a test site produces much lower results than promoted and that was disappointing. Even so, this vehicle is pure bliss to drive and I am not noticing any significant engine noise as reported in other reviews. Drive it and enjoy.
My Mileage has been great
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).
Love this Car
I was hesitant to buy any SUV; I typically am much more environmentally conservative. However, after years of not being able to get equipment and kids in vehicles, I relented. The Lexus Hybrid is a pleasure to drive. It takes curves well and handles well in high volume traffic. I feel secure behind the wheel. I have the back-up mirror which I love and I feel secure in it with my kids in car seats. I am also an executive though..and it doesn't feel just like a mommy car.
6 months on the road 400RH
I average 28 mph with about 60% highway driving compared to 17 - 18 mph with my 2001 RX 300. Moves well in highspeed traffic on the beltway and in heavy traffic.
Great Ride
I just got my 400h..It is awesome. The performance is wondeful. Fast off the start and kind on the fuel. 27.3 mpg on my first tank. It seems funny at first when the engine shuts down at a stop light, but no loss when it turns green. The integration of the powertain and the smooth ride are wonderful. Lexus has hit this one out of the park....I love it......
NICE RIDE
I love to drive my new lexus. I visit my local gas station about every three weeks. getting lost on the streets of long island is no longer possible. I love the bluetooth tech. My lexus drives like a dream, this is my first lexus.I like to get a new car every two years and will never buy any other make then lexus again..
Easy, reliable and handy sport SUV
Very nice to drive and economical too. When accelerating strong the steering wheel has too much "feelings" like front wheel dive car. Very handy to fold the rear seats. In winter inside gets warm quicker thän normal engine. Fine car and not a one problem during the first year.
A Lexus to Remember
The design of the RX 400h was the first thing that intrigued me about my Lexus. After the test drive I was sold. If youe'r thinking of investing in a hybrid I would strongly suggest you take the Lexus RX400h for a test drive. A hybrid costs more but I would purchase this hybrid again. I live in the rural area and my average speed is 45 mph. I am getting 25.5 mpg daily. It doesn't matter if I have to suddenly stop or increase my speed it averages the same mpg. The 6 cylinder engine has as much or more power than my former 8 cylinder engines that were in my large suvs. This car gives you all the comfort of the large suvs in a smaller and very sporty edition of an suv.
Awesome!
I waited a long time for this car, and am happy to say it was worth the wait. With a family to lug around, I needed to upgrade to an SUV from the sedan I was driving, but didn't want a gas guzzler. This offered the perfect solution to my problem, and had the additional benefit of being a Lexus that is quite luxurious and offers superior performance.
Awesome vehicle
Smooth, soft, powerful. You will never hear or feel the transmission change gears. We have been getting great city mileage.
Best thing out there now
I Upgraded from Rx 330. This car-based SUV is quieter and feels more solid than the last one.(The hybrid weighs much more due to the batteries, yet handles better.) Interior is unbelievably comfortable, with perfect seat height and angle for those with back problems. Entry and exit are perfectly thought out. Mark Levinson sound system and Navigation with rear back up camera add greatly to the enjoyment and utility. Actual overall gas mileage is about 25-26 mpg-- not bad for a 4500+ lb vehicle. Hybrid engine is silent at start up and at idle, yet extremely powerful with a great " snarl" at rapid acceleration. Best car I've had so far ( and I've had them ALL). And it feels good to use less gas
More comfortable than a Mercedes
RX 400h's technology is light years ahead from other cars on the market today. The hybrid powertrain does not only save you gas and helps the environment; it makes the habitacle significantly more silent than even a high-end car such as a Mercedes sedan. Power is impressive and compares with a V8. When purchasing the car, the dealer connected my cell phone to the car's bluetooth system in 30 seconds: this feature is priceless! I pick up incoming phone by depressing a button on the steering wheel, voice comes out of the car's stereo system, and the mic is integrated in the car - I never have to pick up the phone. Despite its price, this car is worth every penny.
Drives like a sports car
I have owned this vehicle for almost a year. The best future is stability control, which helps you in the snow and on the wet roads. I feel very safe in this car. Acceleration is outstanding: driving on the highway on V6 only, when in need, electric motors kick in and give you that extra boost. It feels like a turbo, but without all the mechanics and fuel penalty of the regular car. I get 23-24 MPG driving in NJ.
Love the Hybrid
Bought our Lexus 400h in Sep '05 and extremely happy with it. The fuel economy is not what was advertised... but that is to be expected. But overall we are pleased with the gas mileage. Getting better than advertised highway but lower than advertized city. Love the looks, comfort and quality of the RX400h.
First Time Lexus Owner
After driving a pick-up truck for years I wanted a vehicle with a more refined drive, styling and amenities but which would also provide the capability of a decent amount of cargo capacity. After looking around and test driving several SUV's the Lexus 400h caught my attention with its superior gas mileage, styling and refinement. I have had my vehicle for a month and find it as pleasurable to drive now as I did the first day....In fact it took me that long just to master the navigation system!! While my gas mileage hasnt reached the government rating it is still satisfactory for the size/weight and amenities of this vehicle.
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.
Would love it more if it got 30 mpg
Have had my 400h over a year now and I have found it to be truly a comfortable, fun to drive luxury vehicle! We were sorely disappointed when it only got 24.5 mpg both in town and on the highway. I didn't expect the advertized 31 mpg, but I did expect to get 28. But, even 24.5 is 50% better than the non-hybrid. It does have different engine and transmission sounds; a gear sound and the engine goes faster or slower at unexpected times. But this is my problem, not the car's, after all, it is different technology. My father tells me that he didn't like fluid transmissions when they came out either.
Hybrid luxury
My leap to this model is a dream. Still in the clouds and expecting to come down soon..
Lexus 400h
Great vehicle. All of the comfort and performance of a gas powered SUV with better mileage and extremely low emissions. May be a bit hard to justify extra price tag but vehicle is great.
2006 Lexus RX 400h
Let me qualify that I traded a 2002 BMW M3 in on this vehicle, so the fun to drive rating for me was relative. I find the vehicle to be everything I was looking for as I needed the utility and cargo carrying capacity however I was unwilling to burn the amount of gasoline/pollutants for the 97% of the time I would not require same. Acceleration, comfort, ride quality... the LEAST amount of compromise for a vehicle segment that offers little choice.
RX400h
Just received our RX400h - delighted with the improvements over the 2004 330x we had - much better acceleration, much tighter transmission. Electric takes a little getting used - especially when backing out of a parking spot as pedestrians are alarmed. Electric brakes are a little touchy. We are getting an overall 24.3 mpg on regular 60/40 city/highway and have 650 miles on the car. Gas engine seems to run much more than we expected and electic supplements gas when above 50 mph more than we were led to expect. Overall we are delighted with this vehicle. Exceptional quality inside and out.
Very good car
This is a great car, while not as much fun to drive as my old X5 it is actually faster and literally does the same miles on 1 tank of regular that the beemer did on 2 tanks of premium! Everything works like it should and now with 3000 mile on it I haven't had a single problem. I bought it because I need an SUV at 6'4" and in MA and wanted one that was green (mileage was secondary concern), this car's emissions are 15-20% of what the beemers were! It is low end luxury and I don't like the exterior styling, a litle too flash and not enough quiet class like the BMW/Audi/Merc group but I can live with that for the low emissions, the great mileage, the relaibility, & the much cheaper cost. HR
Hybrid Delivers Luxury and.....
I was extremely successful in getting car within week of release without being on wait list. Car is amazing -- delivers 268 horses on demand but hybrid system is flawless. Two electric motors in addition to the 3.3L V6 work seamlessly. I LOVE THIS CAR! This is the first time I have ever owned a Lexus and it won't be the last...but I won't be giving this car up for a LONG TIME. Buying experience was as amazing as the car. A lot to learn about the navigation system and the technology of the automobile, but so worth it.
mendabend eval
plenty of power..comfortable city and on the road ..great mileage..great overall package for the price
Great SUV
The driving experience is great. The SUV drives and handles like a car, a very comfortable one. Starting up the SUV takes some time getting used to since there no engine noise when turning the key in the ignition. The gas mileage is not quite as advertised but you still get decent gas milage for an SUV with a powerful engine. Even though we bought the model without the navigational system, the SUV comes loaded with a great amount of amenities that make this a great vehicle to own.
Value question
This is my third Lexus, but first SUV. Brought the vehicle primary for the advertised mileage of 31 mpg combined. I'm 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.
MPG overrated
If you expect the 27-31 mpg this vehicle claims, you better not run the AC. Actual mileage for the first 500 miles=23.6 mpg. This may be OK for the rest of the country, but in SW Florida where you run the AC all the time, I recommend the regular RX330.
Outstanding
I have experienced total comfort and excellent MPR. This is such a quiet vehicle. A total joy to own. The hybrid experience is about knowing you are doing your small part to help the enviroment.
Absolutely love it!
We purchased our hybrid on 5/2/05 (ordered it last May). We absolutely love it. The interior is very modern - at first wasn't sure if I would like it - but I love it now. We also have 2 tv's for the kids - one on each headrest. We have navigation in our other Lexus so we had to have it again (it was actually a standard). There is a button on the steering wheel for voice operation - it does everything you ask it to - its a lot of fun. I mainly do all highway driving and average 25 mpg (great for a SUV)