2008 Lexus RX 400h Review
The RX is a crossover SUV that first debuted in 1998. The second generation debuted in 2003. In 2007, 2003’s RX 330 was renamed the RX 350, to reflect the upgrade to a 3.5-L V6 engine. That same year, the 400h hybrid model was added. The regular RX has won several awards, including J.D. Power’s “Best Luxury SUV in Initial Quality” and “Most Appealing Luxury SUV,” as well as Intellichoice’s “Best SUV over $30,000.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Lexus RX Hybrid proves that luxury can be green. With better than average fuel economy rated this year at 32 / 27 mpg, the RX hybrid still delivers on performance. And with its sophisticated interior and luxury features, it’s everything you’d expect out of a Lexus.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the RX 5 stars for overall mechanical quality and 4 stars for overall design quality. Problems with the first generation included exhaust noise, brake noise, suspension noise, wind noise and speaker noise. It was recalled twice. The current generation’s problems include inefficient air conditioning, engine stalling, vacuum leaks and flaky automatic windows. It was recalled once in 2004 for defective clips that hold in the center console. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The RX earned perfect government crash tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for frontal impacts and “Poor” for rear collisions. Anti-lock brakes, a full array of airbags, plus stability and traction control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Good fuel economy
+ Thrilling acceleration
+ Reliable
Cons
– Pricey
– Lacking in interior space
– AWD not standard
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid costs several thousand less, has more interior space and standard AWD. The Mercury Mariner Hybrid is nearly half price, but has 100 less hp, a four-cylinder engine, and lacks stability control. The Ford Escape Hybrid also costs much less, though it has over 100 less hp, it doesn’t include 4WD.
What Others Are Saying:
“Lexus blends different shades of green, proving luxury and economy aren’t mutually exclusive.” – Forbes
“The Lexus RX400h provides the well-to-do with a sacrifice-free ride to social responsibility and also points toward a new high-performance pecking order.” – Automobile Magazine
“The RX 400h is America’s first gasoline-electric hybrid luxury SUV. Lexus says it hopes to snare several thousand well-heeled ecologically aware early adapters who might otherwise not have considered an SUV. More likely it’ll grab conspicuous consumers attracted by the fab acceleration, luxury interiors, eco-trendy badging.” – About.com
Read more about the 2008 Lexus RX 400h at the Lexus manufacturer web site.
