2008 Lexus RX400h Review | Buyer Guide
Hybrid Lexus SUV Delivers Power and Fuel Economy
The Lexus RX 400h has the distinction of being the first luxury hybrid SUV. Since its introduction in April 2005, the 400h has done well. Over 60,000 copies have passed through showroom doors. This represents about one in every five RX sales. Initially, the 400h came only with all-wheel drive, but is now available with front-wheel drive, as well.
Of course, the attraction of the RX 400h is its high-tech power train. In the all-wheel-drive version, like the one I had in my test car, Lexus uses a combination of three electric motors and a gasoline engine to drive all four wheels. One electric motor sends power to the front wheels; another delivers juice to the rear wheels and the third handles a variety of functions, including that of starter motor.
These motors also serve as generators and charge the battery pack. The batteries also get charging from a system called “regenerative braking.” When the driver applies the brakes, or when the car is cruising, energy flows back to the batteries.
The gasoline component of the hybrid is the same 3.3-liter V-6 engine that was found in the last generation RX 330. It’s been detuned to 208 horsepower. Yet, the combined gas and electric systems produce the equivalent of 268-hp—about the same as the current RX350. Power gets to the wheels via a planetary gear system, rather than a conventional automatic transmission.
At low speeds around town, the electric motors do most of the work. Out on the freeway, the gasoline engine takes over. And when a burst of power is needed, like in a passing situation, the electric motor chips in to provide an extra boost. Even though the RX 400h weighs 300 lbs. more than its RX sibling, Lexus says that it will still get to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds—good for an SUV.
In addition to producing more power, the hybrid delivers substantially better gas mileage. The city figure is quite respectable for an SUV at 26-mpg. That’s 9-mpg better than the gas-only model. The highway mileage is only slightly better at 26-mpg vs. 24 for the RX 350. Overall, when you combine the city and highway numbers, the hybrid gets 20-percent better gas mileage.
The RX hybrid, like its gas-powered sibling, is a pleasure to drive. It’s very responsive, especially in passing situations, where it does not hesitate. Hit the accelerator, and this 4500 lb. SUV moves out in a hurry. Power comes on in a constant stream, since there’s no conventional transmission to produce sagging between shifts. Furthermore, the 400h is also quiet. The hybrid system generates very little in the way of drive train noise. This vehicle conveys an enhanced feeling of luxury. Yet, it still will haul your 3500-lb boat or trailer.
Since this is a luxury vehicle, its not surprising that the 400h has been tuned more for a comfortable ride. The handling is more than respectable, but the steering conveys very little feel of the road to the driver. However, the ride quality is excellent. The RX is as smooth as a Lexus sedan on the road.
The RX400h comes with a lower base price these days than it original model had— now $43,445 with AWD. However, some luxury features, such as leather seats and the power moonroof are now optional. However one important safety feature, Lexus’ excellent VDIM anti skid system is still standard. VDIM anticipates skids and reacts better than ordinary systems.
Base price for the RX400h with AWD is $43,445. My test car, with a full complement of options topped out $50,515.
Snapshot Review
Luxury Hybrid
High Tech Power Train
Improved Fuel Economy
Car-like Ride
