What the RX 400h Was / Its Key Specs
- Launched in 2005, it was one of the first luxury hybrid SUVs.
- Powertrain: a 3.3-L V6 + electric motors, all-wheel drive (via an electric motor on the rear axle) hybrid system. Total approx. 268 horsepower.
- 0-60 mph in ~7.3 seconds stock; with careful driving/after some break-in maybe slightly quicker.
- Fuel economy: EPA rated ~ 31 mpg city / 27 mpg highway. Real world a bit less (depending on driving style, maintenance).
What It Does Well — What’s Still Impressive
- Build quality & comfort
- Lexus is known for very good interiors, quiet ride, luxury touches, solid materials. For its time and still reasonable even now.
- Suspension and ride comfort hold up well. It was praised in long-term tests for having “expensive-feeling interior and cushy, upscale seats.”
- Hybrid tech ahead of its era
- The hybrid AWD system was innovative in 2005. Having both front and rear electric motors plus V6 gives it good power off the line and better torque for passing.
- In city driving, regeneration + electric assist can reduce fuel consumption.
- Reliability when well maintained
- Owner reports suggest many RX 400h hold up well over high mileage if serviced properly; problems are more about wear, battery health, hybrid system maintenance.
Where It Falls Behind Modern Cars
- Efficiency & emissions
- Modern hybrids / plug-in hybrids / EVs are significantly more efficient. Battery tech has improved, lighter materials, better aerodynamics. So in fuel usage, emissions, and especially in electricity usage, the old RX 400h lags.
- Performance & driving dynamics
- Although it was quick in its day, new fast compact crossovers / electric SUVs out-accelerate it (0-60 in <6 s) more smoothly. Also new cars have better handling, lower center of gravity, better braking, advanced driver aids.
- The RX 400h’s hybrid transitions (gas ↔ electric) have been criticized for being less smooth.
- Technology & features
- Modern cars have superior infotainment (touchscreens, connectivity, driver assist, safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep, adaptive cruise etc.) that old RXs simply don’t match.
- Safety standards have advanced (crash protection, pedestrian detection, etc.).
- Maintenance / aging issues
- Battery degradation, hybrid system wear, potential for more frequent repairs simply due to age. Replacement batteries or components may be expensive or harder to source.
- Rust, electrical issues, suspension wear etc. are more likely.
Can It “Beat” Modern Cars?
| If you care most about... | The RX 400h might still hold up if... | Modern car still better if... |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort, luxury feel, smooth ride in everyday driving | It’s been well maintained; interior and ride quality preserved | You need advanced driver assist / connectivity etc. |
| City fuel savings over older non-hybrids | You drive a lot in city, use regen, maintain the hybrid system well | You want top efficiency (modern hybrids/EVs) or emissions compliance |
| Reliability over long term use | Maintenance history is good; hybrid battery in good condition | You want lower repair risk, newer warranties, cheaper parts |
| Performance & advanced safety / tech | You accept modest acceleration; don’t need latest safety features | You want fast acceleration, modern safety tech & driver assistance |
Verdict
A 20-year-old Lexus RX 400h can still impress, especially when compared to old gas SUVs or non hybrids. It's a solid car with good comfort and hybrid innovation for its time. But it cannot fully “beat” modern cars in all respects; tech, efficiency, safety, performance have moved on a lot.
If you buy one, expect it's a niche choice: good if you appreciate older craftsmanship, want hybrid benefit, but willing to compromise on tech and efficiency. If your benchmark is modern hybrids / EVs, then newer models are likely safer bet overall.