Lexus RX 400h – hybrid cars

When you think of green cars, it’s not often you picture a sports utility vehicle (SUV). However, when the Lexus RX 400h made its debut in 2004, common perceptions had to be re-examined. For here was a vehicle that looks every bit like the commonly oversized gas-guzzler environmentalists have come to despise – yet it boasts remarkable fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. This guide to the Lexus RX 400h examines the vehicle in more depth.

It is no longer available as a new car, Lexus stopped production of the 400h by the end of 2008 in favour of the new RX 450h, however you may still find some used models.

Quick links:

• History of the Lexus RX 400h
• Environmental credentials of the Lexus RX 400h
• Lexus RX 400h statistics
• Future of the Lexus RX 400h

History of the Lexus RX 400h

The first Lexus RX (known as the Harrier in Japan) hit the US market in 1998 after being unveiled at the previous year’s Chicago Auto Show. It didn’t actually go on sale in Europe however, until 2000, when it debuted with larger wheels and a different rear light cluster. The second generation model was unveiled in January 2003 with a sleeker body style. It was also sold in Europe during the same year and was marketed as an RX 300.

The Lexus RX 400h, made its first appearance at the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit – its equivalent model, the Harrier Hybrid, went on sale in Japan in March 2005. It was marketed as the world’s first hybrid SUV though it was only the second mass produced hybrid SUV behind the Ford Escape Hybrid.

The Hybrid RX 400h arrived in Europe for sale in 2006 with both a front- and all-wheel drive vehicle made available. Aside from the obvious engine differentials, there are other subtle differences between the RX 400h and the conventional RX including a metal interior trim, a different grille and round fog lights. In 2007, the vehicle model was refreshed with a wood trim package sold along with further hybrid signifiers.

By the end of 2008, Lexus stopped production of the RX 400h as it introduced RX450h, however the odd model can still be found on used car forecourts.

Environmental credentials of the Lexus RX 400h

As first hybrid performance SUV, the Lexus RX 400h clearly didn’t pick up awards from environmental enthusiasts. SUVs by nature are never going to compete with smaller, more conventional cars, in terms of emissions and fuel economy; however, if you insist on driving an SUV but want to keep a clear environmental conscience then chances are this is the vehicle for you.

It is powered by a 3.3litre V6 petrol engine with two electric motors. It is possible for the petrol engine and the electric motors to work independently from each other meaning that you can travel at low speeds when the petrol engine is least efficient without producing any harmful emissions. Indeed the electric motors can power up to 50km/h without aid and allow the car to switch off when stationary in traffic.

The Lexus RX 400h does qualify for exemption from the London Congestion Charge (check the Powershift Register for more details of vehicle exemptions). This is a car with outstanding economy for a vehicle its size – at 34.9mpg – and comparatively low CO2 emissions of just 192g/km.

The Lexus RX 400h earned a great deal of recognition for its status as an innovative, almost breakthrough vehicle. In the JD Power and Associates 2006 Automotive Environmental Index, the vehicle made the top 30 most environmentally friendly list. It was also hailed at the 2005 GreenFleet Awards, earning Lexus the 4×4 Manufacturer of the Year title.

Lexus RX 400h statistics

Here are some crucial statistics about the Lexus RX 400h:

• 0-62 MPH: 7.6secs
• BHP: 269bhp
• CO2 emissions: 192g/km
• Engine: 3500cc Petrol / Electric Motor
• Kerb Weight: 2,000kg
• Insurance Group: 16
• MPG Combined: 34.9mpg
• NCAP: N/A
• Price: £39,640+
• Top Speed: 124mph
• Transmission: E-CVT Semi Auto
• VED band: F

Future of the Lexus RX 400h

It is expected that a new RX will be released in the 2010 model year. For more details as they become available, check back at TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk.

Author: Lee Sibbald, June 20, 2008

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