2007 Lexus RX 400h

Ups and Downs

Sales of the hybrid-powered Lexus RX 400h have gone up and down, in step with gasoline prices.

The Lexus RX 400h SUV was the brand’s first hybrid gas/electric powered model when it debuted early in the 2006 model year.

Available with either front- or all-wheel drive, the RX 400h is based on the popular RX 350, a car-based crossover model. The RX 400h is also related to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Energy prices took a sharp jump soon after the vehicle’s introduction, and it became a relatively hot seller. Lexus says it sold close to 30,000 units during its first year on sale, but since then, demand for the RX 400h has leveled off considerably.

Accordingly, Lexus has stripped the RX 400h of some features and put them in options packages to achieve a lower entry sticker price, by around $3,500. Leather, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, roof rack, illuminated entry system and power moonroof are now part of an optional Premium Package. A Premium Plus Package adds high-intensity, adaptive headlamps, which used to be standard.

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There are a couple of new additions, including a standard power lumbar adjustment for the front passenger seat and a center-console coin holder. Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, which maintains a set speed and distance from the traffic ahead, is optional, and so is a premium Mark Levinson audio system. An upgraded version of the automaker’s voice-activated navigation system is also optional. It includes a rear backup camera and Bluetooth wireless connectivity for similarly enabled cell phones. An optional, rear-seat DVD entertainment system now includes a larger, nine-inch LCD screen.

The Lexus RX 400h’s hybrid powertrain teams a 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine with a gearless continuously variable transmission (CVT) and two separate electric motor/generators. One motor/generator powers the rear wheels; the other acts as a primary generator and starter, and controls engine speed. The combined system produces the equivalent of 268 hp, with plenty of low-end torque for quick launches and highway passing situations. With AWD, a third electric motor is included to drive the rear wheels.

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At lower speeds and when an added boost is needed, electric power propels the vehicle. A battery pack recharges itself with energy recovered from engine deceleration and braking. It’s a fairly seamless system, though you’ll notice extra drivetrain noises here and there, especially when coming to a stop.

Lexus RX 400h Vehicle Summary

The Lexus RX 400h boasts an estimated 32 mpg city/27 mpg highway, which beats many compact SUVs. Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, mileage is better around town, because that’s when it is most likely to use electric power. However, the RX 400h costs about $3,800 more than the gasoline-powered RX 350, and most drivers will not recover the added cost in a typical three- or four-year ownership period.

The suspension in the RX 400h has been tuned to provide quicker and sportier handling than the RX 350. A sophisticated Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system intelligently operates and coordinates the car’s variable-ratio electronic power steering, stability control and electronic brake system, which includes antilock functionality, brake assist and brakeforce distribution.

Distinguishing features for the hybrid include a unique front grille and fascia, with integrated fog lamps, LED taillights and a hybrid-power meter on the instrument panel in place of a tachometer. The optional navigation system also includes a graphic display that illustrates the flow of power to and from the hybrid powertrain’s various sources. Otherwise, the Lexus RX 400h is cosmetically identical to the conventionally powered RX 350.

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The interior is comfortable and well equipped overall. Ventilation, stereo and other controls are intuitive; steering-wheel-mounted controls are included. Front side, side-curtain and driver’s-side knee-height airbags are standard, as is a power-operated rear liftgate. Convenient and ingenious storage bins are sprinkled throughout the cabin. The RX 400h seats five. The rear seat backs can easily fold forward in two sections to expand cargo capacity. A third-row seat is not available.