2008 Lexus RX-400h [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 64 RX-400h reviews and test drives.
Lexus RX-400h - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Lexus RX-400h ranks 1 out of 15 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 64 published reviews and test drives of the Lexus RX-400h, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The RX 400h offers a rare combination of sport utility performance and Lexus luxury in an environmentally conscious hybrid. It ranks very highly among both luxury midsize SUVs and hybrid SUVs.
Sticker price aside, reviewers praise the 2008 Lexus RX 400h (the h stands for hybrid) for driving performance comparable to its Lexus RX 350 sibling, and for its lonely status as a fuel-efficient alternative in the luxury SUV market. Motor Trend says, the 400h "is the first to offer a no-compromise ecology-minded alternative to a class of customer not otherwise included to sacrifice prestige and comfort for the sake of the planet." When price is taken into consideration, RX 400h buyers should recognize that they are saving the environment -- not money.
- "All in all, this is a great car for a woman or family, with a drive system that puts the vehicle in the 'green' category, helping to reduce both gasoline consumption and air pollution." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
- "The Lexus RX 400h offers more power, more features and better fuel economy than the regular RX 330. That may be enough justification for the $4,000-$5,000 premium over a loaded RX 330. A better justification may be knowing that you are driving one of the most environmentally friendly vehicles on the planet, cleaner than electric cars when the big picture is considered."-- New Car Test Drive
- "For those seeking even more exclusivity and performance in a midsize lux/ute, the innovative RX 400h is in a class of one. The combination of eight-cylinder-caliber performance, premium equipment, benchmark fuel economy, and high technology give tremendous appeal to the RX 400h, itself the highest form of a laudable SUV line." -- Automobile Magazine
RX-400h Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2008 Lexus RX 400h ranks highly for its performance, with Road and Track proclaiming, "The age of the performance hybrid is here, now with the expected Lexus polish." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why test drivers are particularly impressed with the 400h's acceleration and transmission -- even when compared to the non-hybrid version. continue
RX-400h Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Just as auto writers are pleased with the non-hybrid RX 350's styling, they also like the Lexus RX 400h, leading to a high exterior ranking. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman calls it "Hot" and adds, "Like the 330, the RX 400 is svelte and stylish." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about new exterior features for 2008, or check out our Lexus RX 400h Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
RX-400h Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Lexus RX 400h's interior doesn't disappoint, helping it to earn an interior score near the top of its class. "The interior is comfortable and well equipped overall," says Forbes. Plus, there are plenty of hi-tech standard features -- so many, in fact, that only a few optional accessories are offered. Continue with our Interior Review to learn whether the navigation system and Mark Levinson Premium Audio System are worth the extra cash, or check out our Lexus 400h interior photos. continue
RX-400h Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Lexus RX 400h does extremely well in federal government crash tests and comes loaded with a long list of standard safety features. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about some of the RX 400h's safety perks, including water-beading front side windows. continue
RX-400h Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Lexus RX-400h reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Lexus provides a basic warranty for the first four years or 50,000 miles. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about the Lexus' good reputation for reliability. continue
