Reader Review of the Week

We’ve missed a week or two because of auto show scheduling, but we’re back with a take on the Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUV from a reader in Rockville, Md. We know, we’re suckers for the hybrid reviews, but almost all of them articulately point out why they decided to take the plunge and buy an alternative vehicle despite the added cost. Thankfully, our friend Rockville1 also gives his or her real-world fuel economy. As always, you can write your own car review right here.

“I purchased this vehicle in Jan ’07 and only have 1,000 miles on it, but so far I absolutely love everything about this car.

“I have the 2007 AWD with nav and so far I have been very impressed with how quiet the vehicle is, how well it handles and, most of all, how quickly this car accelerates!

“I have always been philosophically opposed to SUVs due to the high fuel consumption and excessive pollution. But I have always thought the RX series by Lexus was the most attractive SUV on the market, so I was delighted when the hybrid RX400h was released. I now get the same gas mileage as my all-gas cars and have the added benefit of driving a Super Low Emissions Vehicle.

“I did test-drive the Toyota Highlander, and although these cars are sister vehicles (both built on a modified Camry frame), there was a noticeable refinement in the quality and performance of the Lexus (there is no question that the Highlander is an excellent vehicle!). For me it was simply a personal decision to go with the Lexus (also the service and treatment I received at Lexus was far superior to what I got at Toyota -- and customer service does make a difference to me).

“Anyway, I have been very impressed with all of the features. The navigation system is terrific. I originally thought that I might not use this too much, but now I find myself using it all the time. I no longer carry maps in my car! The Mark Levinson sound system is terrific, and the interior fit and finish are superb. My only very minor complaint is that the car does not come with the ‘smart key’ system that is found on some other Toyota cars (like Prius and Camry). Other than that, the car is loaded with creature comforts.

“As for mileage, I have been averaging right around 26.5 mpg. It has been very cold since I purchased the vehicle, and while I am quite happy with this mileage, I expect it to go up in the warmer months. On the highway I get 28 mpg if I keep the car between 60 and 65 mph. Mileage drops to 25.5 to 26.0 mpg between 70 and 75 mph.

“Note that this car is designed for performance, not fuel economy. You should not consider buying this car if your main goal is to save money on gas (buy a Prius instead). But if you are conscientious about the environment and still want to drive an awesome, high-performance vehicle that gets the same gas mileage as a car, then this a tremendous vehicle."

Comments

[Aaron Stein]

i had one of the original 99 rx300's and i agree it's a wonderful car, though i think i still like the older style better for it's more rounded, funky spacecraft look. i'm sure the new one is quite improved, however.

as for the gas mileage, you will definitely notice a big change in the warmer months. my prius does about 42-43 combined in the summer, but lucky if i can maintain 34-35 in winter.

[szerfas]

Funny I looked at the picture really quickly as I scrolled down to the performance/fuel economy section. Looking at it quickly I thought it was the new CRV. :-) Raeding the performance/fuel economy I knew it was not the CRV when I read "this car is designed for performance". Not bad fuel economy for a vehicle of this size but I am left wondering how much worse is the non-Hybrid on fuel and is it worth the cost difference? Hopefully increased temps will help those number significantly.

[Dave T.]

the RX350 (non hybrid) gets
City: 19 – 20 Highway: 24 – 25
depending on AWD or FWD
The RX 400h (hybrid) gets
City: 31 – 32 Highway: 27

Very significant if you do a lot of town travel.

[MikeW]

The '08 (real fuel economy numbers due to new test procedure) is 17/22 for the four wheel drive Rx350

The Rx400 will come down also.

But the price difference will still cover four years of driving the Rx350, which is just as fast now.

[Tom]

I have an RX 400 hybrid and have about 5K miles. I agree with the original writer on almost all his comments. I bought it not expecting to save a lot on gas. The dealer didn't promise the world on mileage. Jokingly he said, "Unless oil goes to $100 a barrel you won't save the extra cost of the hybrid for about 4 or so years." I now notice the predictions are for that price to happen.
One nice note, I had a near accident on a wet road and jammed on the brakes. The car acted like a guardian angel, keeping me straight and preventing fish-tailing or anything else. It's a great car!