2008 Lexus RX-400h Exterior Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 64 RX-400h reviews and test drives.
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
Just as auto writers are pleased with the RX 350's exterior, they also like the four-door 2008 Lexus RX 400h. Motor Week says the hybrid "shares the same basic dimensions, stance and athletically sleek, elegant looks," as its non-hybrid sibling.
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram says the RX 400h "made a very good first impression with its icy blue color called Breakwater Blue, its low curves and just-right size."
Standing 68.5-inches tall, 72.6-inches wide and 187.2 inches long, the 400h's marked differences are the front bumper, grille and LED taillights. Seventeen-inch tires come standard with six-spoke, aluminum alloys, while drivers have the option for 18-inch tires on five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with Liquid Graphite finish.
Reviewers pleasantly receive these outer differences. As Carlist.com describes, "the front grille is a little bolder, the headlights a glowing orange on the outside, vents on the bumper for cooling and the foglights are oval instead of squarish." Automobile Magazine also praises attention to detail, calling the grille "fine-lined," while using "jewel-like" to describe the headlamps.
For 2008, the 400h gets chrome door handles and a new grille. But Cars.com notes, "Few onlookers will be able to distinguish it from last year's RX 400h." The RX 400h has water-repellant glass offering UV protection for the front doors, with privacy glass and in-glass antenna in the rear. Windshield wipers are rain-sensing variable intermittent wiper with mist cycle, with wipers also included on the rear glass and headlamps.
Those drivers who choose the 2008 Lexus RX 400h's Premium Luxury Value Edition Package will also receive a roof rack with rails along with interior adjustments, while the Premium Plus Luxury Value Edition Package offers an adaptive front lighting system to illuminate more road and space during turns, along with high-intensity discharge.