Benjamin T

iTrader: (2)

I did a search, but most of the posts are old or unanswered... so if you have seen this before, please bear with me?

After 10 years of ownership, our RX300 is starting to cost us in maintenance/repairs (sigh).

We test drove an 05 RX330 and found it disappointing, especially in the transmission department. The used example we tried couldn't seem to find the right gear. After reading owner reviews online, there is a consistent complaint about the transmission (with some that have had expensive repairs/failures), which is something I do not want to deal with.

I am seeing a lot of ex-lease and US import (I am from Canada) 06/07 RX400H's showing up locally. Our budget allows us to look at maybe a 30k mi base model example in these 2 years.

Is there anyone here who is in the same boat as I am? What should I be looking out for? Those who have upgraded already... are you happy with your decision?

[edit] also, what is the lifespan of the hybrid battery?

LexRexBlue

I have a '99 RX 300 and a '06 400h. My 98 actually had the transmission replaced before the warranty wore out, but yes some parts are going. We've had it since Dec. '98 but don't drive it much--maybe 3500 miles a year. The hybrid has a lot more power, better gas mileage, amenities, smooth acceleration, etc. It doesn't need extra care and I haven't had any real problems.

Maverick16

Not in quite the same boat, as I had a Ford Explorer before this.. but, i did end up test driving a few different RXs before I ended up buying the 06 400h that I have now. In comparison between the 330 and the 400, I was actually amazed at the overall power difference. I tested an 07 330 first, took it out for a few miles on town roads and a highway. I was, shall we say, less than impressed. I actually think my Explorer accelerated better than that thing and handled better. I was a little turned off, but tested another 330 and had the same reaction. I was considering just calling it quits and checking out an Infiniti FX, but the dealer (friend of mine) happened to have the 06 400h on the lot. I gave it one last chance, and took that one out. I was amazed. The acceleration felt a whole lot better and it felt like it handled a little more smoothly as well.

Needless to say, I signed for it, and now I've had it for about 6 months and have no complaints about the driving. (Don't like the audio, but doing a major overhaul of the audio system next week)

As for the hybrid battery, I'm no expert but I've been told that it's not much of a worry, those things last a very long time.. much longer than most people would keep the car as their main transportation.

Just my 2 cents, hope it helps a little.

Benjamin T

iTrader: (2)

Thank you for your responses Maverick16 and LexRexBlue!

Jeff92se

I'm your man. We just traded in our RX300 for a 08RX400h. I see the dealer trying to sell it or $3000 more than we traded in for

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...questions.html

CometVR4

I looked at RX400h after deciding against a 330 for lack of power. I drove a 350 and Infiniti FX35. The RX350 really makes overcomes the 330 in the horsepower department but I personally liked the FX myself because I'm a car guy and love sporty ridde over comfort but since it was my wife's vehicle I decided on a 400h. It can take regular gas although premium is recommended, though we usually just run mid-grade. It has a smooth CVT transmission. I wasn't concerned about the batteries because the Prius battery life has seen over 100,000 miles no problems. The fuel mileage was a lot better than a non hybrid model.

Benjamin T

iTrader: (2)

fuel economy aside, would any of you have given consideration to the new toyota venza before buying your hybrid RX? This question is the stalemate we are at this moment...

Jeff92se

I looked at one while at the Lexus dealer. They had a white one there. I like the styling alot. But you can tell the leather and wood are a notch down from Lexus. Never drove it though. But since it didn't come with a hybrid drivetrain, we took it off the list.

You might want to look into a Highlander. They look way better than the previous gen and gained some good size. Hybrid drivetrain is available.

Benjamin T

iTrader: (2)

Taking into account the lower purchase cost, being a new vehicle with factory warranty, etc... would that offset the lower fuel economy ratings the venza has against a used RX400H?

We passed on the 2nd gen Highlander because the underground parking ceiling clearance is very low and is barely sufficient for our RX300, and the Highlander is taller. In fact, we do not want the increased size because of space limitations where we live. We did try a 1st gen Highlander and it was not very nice to drive compared to what we have now.

LexFather

My family has a 1999 RX 300 AWD with over 200k miles and it is aging. I have a lot of experience with it and my wife and I now have a 400h. We have it for 2 months now but I have driven them extensively before.

The hybrid powertrain/parts are backed by 7/100k miles and its been rare to hear of any issues. After experience with my GS 450h I am convinced with the technology. She is very happy so far. It is quieter, faster and more fuel efficient than the RX 300 or even 350. We also like the looks of the RX 400h with the different wheels and front bumper.

I've driven the RX 300/330/350/400h/450h and they all do make good leaps over the other. Thus I feel the RX 400h is a fantastic step over the RX 300 (which did create this entire segment).

Good luck!

Jeff92se

Read my review. If you are only looking at the mpg differences, you won't be able to justify it.

My wife only got about 240-260 miles to a tank on the RX300. Same driving, she got 350 miles at 13 gal. But there is alot more to the RX400h than just the mpg. CVT, AWD w/ an electric motor, no starter, alternator etc... Better performance with the 400h vs 350 etc...