• 2010

  • 2009 Lexus RX 400h

2009 Lexus RX 400h
MSRP: NA
Invoice: NA
MPG: NA
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:9.1
Performance:8.4
Exterior:7.3
Interior:8.5
Safety:9.9
Reliability:10.0
Research we analyzed for this review
Pros and Cons
  • Only SUV in its class available as a hybrid
  • Accelerates and drives as well as the non-hybrid RX
  • Strong reputation for quality and retained value
  • Questionable value over non-hybrid model
  • Some report choppy braking
  • No off-road capabilities 

Prices

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Lexus RX 400h - What the Auto Press Says

Sticker price aside, reviewers praise the 2009 Lexus RX 400h (the h stands for hybrid) for driving performance comparable to its Lexus RX 350 sibling, and for its unique status as one of only two hybrids in the luxury SUV market (the full-size Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is the other). The RX 400h offers a rare combination of sport utility performance and Lexus luxury in a hybrid package. In fact, along with the gasoline-powered model, it's our Best Luxury Crossover for the Money.

Consumer Guide says the RX 400h "blends V8-like acceleration with fuel economy that bests even some V6-powered rivals." However, when the RX400h's base price (more than $41,000) is taken into consideration, buyers will recognize that they are saving the environment -- not money. Plus, the RX 400h isn't for off-roading. For 2009, the RX400h is unchanged from earlier models. It's also getting a full redesign for 2010, so you may be able to get great deals on 2009 models.

  • "When in electric-only mode, the RX 400h makes only the slightest of sounds. However, don't mistake it for a namby-pamby underpowered econo-crossover. It's far from it." -- Detroit News
  • "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
  • "The RX400h was the first luxury sport-utility hybrid, and it offers many things to a wide range of people. Tech heads, greenies, and luxury lappers alike will appreciate the RX400h's smooth, quiet, and comfortable operation. The RX supplies good scoot with commendable fuel economy." -- Car and Driver

RX-Hybrid Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

Test drivers love the Lexus RX 400h's performance, which is impressive for a hybrid. "The RX 400h drives like a much smaller vehicle," says the Detroit News. "Despite its size, it rides much more like a car than a truck, the ideal for any crossover. And when your driving gets a little too aggressive, Lexus includes electronic stability control and antilock brakes to quickly straighten you out." Test drivers are particularly impressed with the 400h's acceleration and transmission -- even when compared to the non-hybrid version. Read More

RX-Hybrid Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

Auto writers are pleased with the Lexus RX 400h's exterior styling. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman calls it "Hot" and adds, "Like the 330, the RX 400 is svelte and stylish." Read More

RX-Hybrid Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

The Lexus RX 400h's interior is luxurious and comfortable. "RX models feature high-grade cabin materials, with many soft-touch surfaces and comfortable padding," says Consumer Guide. "Though luxurious, the overall cabin appearance is a bit on the bland side." Read More

RX-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2009 Lexus RX 400h does extremely well in federal government crash tests and comes loaded with a long list of standard safety features. The RX 400h's safety perks include water-beading front side windows. Read More

RX-Hybrid Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2009 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. Read More

Review Last Updated: 4/27/09