With its hi-tech petrol-electric powerplant, the Lexus RX400h aims to be an eco-friendly large SUV.

Styling/Image
At first glance there’s little to distinguish the petrol-electric Lexus from other models in the firm’s RX line-up. There’s the same high-riding stance, long overhangs and unusually steeply raked rear. However, take a closer look at the big off-roader and you’ll notice small hybrid badges on the flanks and one on the tailgate. Overall, the design looks a little dated and lacks the visual impact of prestige rivals, such as the BMW X5 or Mercedes M-Class. Buyers can pick from five trim levels – SE, SE-L, SR, Limited Edition and Executive Limited Edition.

Interior/practicality
Despite its premium price and pretensions, the RX400h’s cabin feels a little low rent. Build quality is excellent, but some of the shiny plastics look and feel cheap. As a result it lacks the feelgood factor that you’d expect in a luxury car. At least the interior is well equipped, with entry-level models getting leather trim, sat-nav and climate control. The interior is spacious too, with room for five adults and useful 439-litre boot. Sadly, a fixed rear bench that doesn’t fold flat hampers the Lexus’s load-lugging ability.

Engine/performance
Given its eco-friendly billing, the RX400h delivers surprisingly strong straight-line pace. Its hybrid powerplant uses a 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine and electric motor to deliver 269bhp. Mated to CVT auto gearbox and permanent four-wheel drive system, it allows the Lexus to sprint from zero to 62mph in a hot hatch-rivalling 7.6 seconds. But it’s the refinement that really impresses. At low speeds, the car can run on electricity alone, meaning near silent progress. Prod the throttle pedal a little harder and the smooth internal combustion engine fires unobtrusively into life. Unfortunately, the performance at the pumps is less impressive, and most owners can expect a disappointing return of 25mpg.

Driving experience
As you’d expect of a big SUV, the Lexus offers little in the way of driver involvement. While the steering is light and direct, it lacks feedback. However, turn into a sharp bend and you’ll find that body roll is well controlled and there’s plenty of grip. The high set driving position offers a commanding view of the road, while the suspension serves-up a cosseting ride over poor road surfaces. Low wind noise and excellent mechanical refinement mean the RX400h is relaxing long distance companion.

Ownership costs
If you thought efficient hybrid powerplants automatically resulted in low running costs, then think again. The RX400h is every bit as pricy to own as a traditional large SUV. Apart from the high list price, there’s also the prospect of 25mpg fuel consumption – a diesel-engined BMW X5 can add around 10mpg to that figure. On the plus side, buyers can expect residuals of around 40 percent and the range-topping Limited Edition versions come with a free two-year servicing package.

Safety/Environment
It’s been around for five years now, but the RX still features plenty of safety kit. All versions get eight airbags, ESP and powerful xenon headlamps. Sadly, the Lexus’s environmental credentials can’t live up to the promise of its petrol/electric powertrain. In isolation its 192g/km CO2 figure looks impressive, but traditional oil-burning rivals aren’t far behind and manage to deliver better fuel returns.

Source: autoexpress.co.uk