Entered CNET Catalog: 04/29/2005
SKU: 100521765
Manufacturer: Lexus
Product summary
The good: Fast acceleration; unencumbered LCD and separate audio display; versatile rear-seat entertainment system.
The bad: Grainy LCD map display; no factory option for surround sound or satellite radio; notched feeling in electric power steering.
The bottom line: As the first luxury SUV hybrid, the Lexus RX 400h makes a good first impression with its power, its fuel efficiency, and its technology.
Editors' review
- Editors' Choice: Yes
- Reviewed on: 05/16/2005
The driving force behind the Lexus RX 400h is Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, which lets the car run on either gas, electric, or both power sources. Power surges from a 208-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 gasoline engine, and since this is an all-wheel-drive vehicle, the engine gets help from not one but two electric motors (front and rear). Together, both power trains pump out an exhilarating 268 horsepower.
Like other hybrids on the road today, the RX 400h uses the electric motors to get moving and at low speeds, but once you feel the need for speed, the car taps into the gas engine for a boost. The Lexus engineers show their pride in the electrical half of the power train by including three ways to watch all the action. A large gauge on the left side of the instrument panel shows how hard the electric motors are either working or charging. For a more detailed view, you can switch to the main LCD in the center console, which displays how gas and electric power are distributed in your vehicle. Or view a smaller version of this screen embedded in the speedometer display, which you can call up with a few taps of the Display button on the steering wheel.
As with other hybrids, nothing happens when you twist the ignition key. The car wakes up electronically, ready to move under electric power alone until you pass the 25mph mark, at which point the gas engine kicks in. There is an amusing yet serious sidebar to this arrangement; parking valets, friends, and car wash attendants who get in your RX 400h may sit there madly twisting the key, wondering why it won't start. Less entertaining is the way you may startle pedestrians by creeping up behind them, running silently on electric power, especially in noisy parking garages. It demands the driver be aware of the unique sound print of this vehicle.
Once underway, you'll quickly appreciate this vehicle's main selling point: it's fast. When the electric motors kick in, power delivery comes on as if from a turbocharger, roundly but forcefully. The numbers tell it all. The RX 400h goes from 0 to 60mph in 7.3 seconds, a hair slower than the Honda Accord Hybrid but faster than the Ford Escape Hybrid.
The power steering on the RX 400h sometimes feels a bit rough, an issue we've noticed on other hybrids. Conventional cars obtain constant hydraulic pressure for the power steering system by running a pump off the crankshaft pulley. Because the gas engine on the RX 400h isn't always on, its power steering runs off a 42-volt electric motor that is always operational, preventing interruptions in power assist. The downside we noticed was a decidedly notched feel to the steering at times, almost as if the initiation of assist could use a little more damping. It's not a big issue, but in a vehicle of this caliber, we notice it more than we would in, say, the Toyota Prius.
If you like Lexus RX styling historically, you'll appreciate the RX 400h. It carries over most of the design cues that have always identified the RX series, with the notable deletion of the separate rear-quarter windows of first-generation vehicles. Those windows have now been absorbed ahead of the C-pillars as glass sail panels, giving the side view of the RX a sportier look more reminiscent of a fastback. Cabin room is good, which isn't hard to do in an SUV. We felt visibility was a little sketchy around the rear-quarter blind spots, thanks to those new, more massive C-pillars.
As we would expect in a luxury vehicle, the Lexus RX 400h came with a nice set of digital comforts as part of the standard package: a voice-activated DVD navigation system, a backup camera, and Bluetooth technology for hands-free cell phone use. The seven-inch, touch-screen LCD mounted high in the dash caught our eye, thanks to the lack of distractions around it. We liked that Lexus opted not to go with the multifunction control knob that's becoming increasingly common in cars of this class; in fact, most controls in this cabin looked instantly familiar. The only ones that take some familiarization are the black push buttons along the bottom edge of the LCD for operating the display's functions.
The main reason for the screen, of course, is the Lexus voice-activated DVD navigation system. Like the navigation system found on the Lexus GS 430, we found its map display to be disconcertingly grainy. While taking nothing away from its functionality, it imparts a feeling of crudeness that isn't satisfying--or easy to overlook--in a $52,000 car. That aside, the navigation system performed well, providing us with voice-guided directions and quickly recalculating our route as we intentionally made wrong turns. With the touch-screen interface and the onscreen keyboard, entering a destination is fairly painless, although the car must be at a stop. The system recognizes some voice commands, but you can't enter destinations via this method.
When you put the RX 400h in reverse, its backup-view camera (located above the rear license plate) automatically takes over the dashboard LCD and offers a fixed wide-angle view of what's behind the vehicle. This is no idle toy; children, shopping carts, and even small cars can easily disappear from the driver's view behind the RX 400h's ample rump.
The Bluetooth hands-free system in this car had a small glitch when we paired it with our Cingular Treo 650, a problem we also encountered in the Lexus GS 430. Luckily, we found a solid work-around posted online by Lexus/Treo owners. We also tested the RX 400h's hands-free system with a new Nextel Motorola i605 and had no problem. If you're considering any car for its Bluetooth hands-free capability, check with the dealer's service department for a list of compatible mobiles.
A more enjoyable source of sound is the optional Mark Levinson audio system, boasting a seven-channel, 11-speaker configuration driven by a 210-watt amp with all kinds of proprietary digital signal processing tuned to each Lexus model. Sources include AM, FM, cassette tape, in-dash six-disc CD changer, and audio from the rear-seat entertainment system, but there's no option for satellite radio or DVD-audio surround sound. A major ergonomic win on the RX 400h is the use of a simple, separate display for the audio system. Some carmakers cram this information onto the main LCD, which we find creates needless competition for a display that is best left to navigation duty. The dedicated audio display is nestled among the audio controls and never requires you to switch the main screen to see things such as what station or CD is playing.
Our test RX 400h was also equipped with the optional drop-down rear-seat entertainment system mounted on the ceiling. Its screen is a wide aspect ratio, so modern DVD movies can take advantage of every inch of the screen real estate available. It can also be switched to show the dashboard navigation screen, and conversely, when the car is parked, you can see the rear-seat video signal on the dashboard LCD. When the rear screen is deployed, obstruction of the driver's rearview mirror is only moderate, thanks to the large rear glass on the RX 400h, which was not the case with the Infiniti M45.
Regarding the optional rear-seat entertainment system, we liked the set of auxiliary A/V input jacks, but we weren't thrilled that they were mounted back in the cargo bay. It's hard to imagine what ergonomic benefit the Lexus engineers had in mind when they wedged these jacks into a nook behind the rear seat. A pair of 120-volt/100-watt power outlets mounted in the rear cargo area and under the dash allows operation of AC devices you normally plug into a wall outlet, such as a laptop.
Finally, Lexus boasts a recent notification from the Internal Revenue Service that the new RX 400h is certified for a special tax deduction, thanks to its clean burn rating. Bottom line, if you buy one during calendar year 2005, you should be able to take a deduction of $2,000 on your taxes. Consult your accountant to confirm that you qualify.
Safety features on the Lexus RX 400h include driver- and front-side air bags that use sensors to determine the severity of the crash, the driver's seat-track position, and an occupant's weight for deployment. Warranty coverage on the RX 400h is four years/50,000 miles bumper to bumper, six years/70,000 miles on the power train, and eight years/100,000 miles for the hybrid-specific parts of the power train. This coverage plan is more generous than those found on competing vehicles from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Acura.
User opinions
Select a User Opinion to view: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19out of 19 user reviews
great car; worth the extra $$$
Pros: great looking, extremely comfortable interior, nice features, quiet - smooth ride, high quality materials on the interior
Cons: steering wheel a bit shaky as noted in the review
out of 19 user reviews
very poor mileage makes it a lemon
Pros: like any other SUV
Cons: worst mileage - a lexus abuse
I drive quietly in a classy neighboorhood where speed is limited at around 30 to 40.
I think it's a shame on the part of Lexus to ignore my complaint, now two years old, since I received the car brand new. They say there is nothing wrong, yet their own tech can't raise the Mpg any better even after a long test drive with no air, no radio and all windows closed.
I don't know who to address. Someone please help me with a class action suit? There must be other people in the same case? Lexus Customer service is aware, they said they would buy the car back but that was 4 months ago...
They are all playing time until I go away...
out of 19 user reviews
Nice smooth ride
Pros: Quiet, smooth and easy to drive
Cons: overstated MPG
out of 19 user reviews
I LOVE THIS CAR!
Pros: Excellent gas mileage!
Cons: cant use navigation while driving
The only thing I don't like is that I can't use the navigation unless I'm at a complete stop. I realize this is for safety reasons but if I have a passenger in the car there is no reason why they can't use the navigation. If it weren't for this little glitch I would give the car a 10.
Overall I love this car and I'm so happy with my purchase!
out of 19 user reviews
It had been a pleasure owning an RX400h so far. It's been almost a year and a half and no problems
Pros: The RX400h is very power, comfortable and luxurious compared to more expensive vehicles
Cons: It's on the expensive end and certain navigation features are disabled when the vehicle is in motion.
out of 19 user reviews
Hybrid with at best 31mpg?
Pros: Luxury car
Cons: Lousy fuel economy for a hybrid.
out of 19 user reviews
Pretty Good, but ...
Pros: Nice ride, pretty quick, nicely finished inside
Cons: Not "true" awd, back door structure is weak
out of 19 user reviews
The choice of hybrid or no hybrid
Pros: The Lexus RX is the Crown Prince of the SUVs
Cons: The so-called lack of satellite radio is incorrect. XM built-in is an option from the Lexus dealer
out of 19 user reviews
Lexus lemon!!
Pros: It looks good.
Cons: The hybrid system is seriously flawed.
Lexus should be ashamed to market such a piece of junk that has no obvious upside. It doesn't even get good gas mileage.
out of 19 user reviews
40% better gas mileage than Rx330
Pros: 40% better gas mileage, 80% less emmisions, same cost
Cons: Left out some trip info, no satelite radio or MP3 port
out of 19 user reviews
Absolutely the Best!
Pros: Drives smooth, fast acceleration, great gas mileage, Bluetooth is easy, navigation system is good, better than 2004 model Voice activation a plus, Stabilization saved our lives, worth every penny
Cons: "On-Star" would be our first choice, however, this navigation system is a good second choice.
I have been getting a pretty steady 27 MPG. What I've noticed is, it has A LOT to do with how you drive the vehicle. If you have a heavy foot and drive over 70, you'll notice the mileage creeping downward. I started really watching the mileage (performance mode) on the navigation system, I learned to drive the vehicle in a manner that supported the better mileage rating and the mileage is getting better and better. I still drive faster than I should... (as is evident by 2 speeding tickets already this year) but, I am learning how to maximize the mileage and anticipate it getting better. I still have NO complaints with this vehicle, it is simply superb!
out of 19 user reviews
Great vehicle, however...............
Pros: Wonderful ride, comfortable and safe
Cons: Navi system a bust, mileage OK, but not great!
out of 19 user reviews
Attractive, comfortable, fun auto which is good for the environment
Pros: Style, Comfort, driveability, features.
Cons: Mileage not as expected, cargo space, price
The car is very stylish, but with that style also comes a slight drawback. The rear hatch is very angled which means we have to maneuver items in the rear around more or we can't close the hatch. We probably lose a good foot or more of space for taller items. Also, the rear seats don't fold down flat due to the extra batteries under them, so this also limits the size of what can be packed in here. The car has a luggage rack, but unlike the RX300, does not have the small hooks in the racks to attach bungees to. It was a bit harder to tie down, but I have managed so far.
The inside styling and set up is also nice. I didn't think I would like the two tone dash or brushed aluminum(as opposed to wood trim), but I find I really like both. The car looks great.
Driving it is a great deal of fun. It handles well, is very comfortable, has a great ride, great acceleration and is very smooth. The brakes could be improved, but are not a distraction. We recently had alot of snow, and I had no problems maneuvering through my alley or the side streets.
Disappointing for me was the mileage. One reviewer reported getting 32 mpg--I want his car. I get an avg. of 24 mpg, city and highway. I purposely drove it the way that is supposed to give the best mileage(smooth starts, anticipated braking, inflated tires, consistent speeds of 30-40 in the city and 60 on the highway, etc), but consistently got 24 mpg. Most reviews report the same thing, so don't use the sticker numbers of 31/28. However, it is much better than the 14, 15 I used to get so I'm not complaining too much.
The car has all the fun stuff a luxury car should, comfy heated seats, GPS system(I'm still working on all it's features), nice controls, etc., and one feature I didn't think I would care about--the back up camera. It has been great--I rarely have to turn my head anymore. In reverse, the side mirrors angle down and the camera shows an excellent view of the rear of the car(lighting does affect the quality at times). It has helped greatly in maneuvering in and out of a garage in a narrow alley and with parking in tight spaces. No more striking unexpected items which were previously below eye level. The car also has excellent safety ratings(it is loaded with airbags). I hope not to have to test those anytime soon.
Overall, a great car. Everyone comments on it and want to drive it(not happening). I am very happy with the purchase. Although it cost alot, I plan on keeping it a long time, and the reliability of Lexus and the high resale value of their cars are helpful. Best of all(and the main reason I bought it), it leaves a lighter footprint on the environment with the better gas mileage, low emissions and regenerative braking system.
out of 19 user reviews
Great hightPreformance Luxury Vehicle
Pros: High tech fun to use and drive
Cons: too many annoying safety features: can't open the power rear door when in drive, navigation sys freezes when car moves. 26 MPG
out of 19 user reviews
My wife adores her 400h!
Pros: Smooth, agile, and suprisingly quick w/great mileage
Cons: Few, but have to say wimpy brakes and noisy tires.
The tires are tough to replace because of their odd size and the very small amount of clearance in the wheel wells. There is a right sized Bridgestone Dueler available at a modest price which we'll move to next winter and use as an ice tire. The whole family including my wife has been disappointed with the brakes. Unlike our Bimmers which stop immediately from any speed, the Lex just takes its time, which can get the blood pumping in traffic. Unfortunately, we're stuck with these dogs until somebody comes up with better pads or an aftermarket solution. Probably no Brembos for this Lexus, ever.
This brings me to the fuel economy issue other have raised. My wife gets 24.5 MPG around town with lots of stop and go. She's an ex-Porsche and ex-BMW driver with a very serious foot, so if others are reporting poor mileage, it must be something unique in their driving habits. The only surprise on the fuel economy was the fact that she didn't see a big improvement during a recent 2-hour freeway trip.
The other fun thing was the guy standing next to her car at delivery with a pen and a checkbook asking her how much she wanted to sell it on the spot. She just shook her "no" head and drove away with a big grin.
While I would rate the car a 8, she would rate it a 9, which is the way I posted it.
out of 19 user reviews
very good power, middling economy
Pros: very good power, smoother transmission and steering vs rx330
Cons: no xm, no ventilated seats
out of 19 user reviews
Did not meet expectations on economy
Pros: Smmoth, quiet and responsive
Cons: Poor gas mileage for a hybvrid
out of 19 user reviews
Nicest Care I've Ever Owned
Pros: Smooth ride; great hybrid system; good horsepower
Cons: Microphone does not pick-up well; Minimal Radio Features;
It is loaded with features but I find the radio to be very minimalist. It does the basics but there is no satellite, no MP3, no graphic or similar equalizer, no iPOD connector, etc. I also have problems with the telephone microphone but I'm anticipating that the dealer will fix that this week. I had no problems bluetooth connecting my Motorola V600 telephone.
I recommend this vehicle. It's worth it.
out of 19 user reviews
i love it have 250 miles
Pros: wonderful car
Cons: large suv,some blind spots
