I have a RX300 2001 w/navigation with 40,000 miles. I am considering purchasing a hybrid SUV and wanted to know what you suggest. I never buy NEW. I try to find older cars with low mileage. Please tell me the pros and cons of buying the RX400h. What is the cost of replacing the battery, what is the average mileage to expect before replacing the battery, what are the MPG w/the hybrid vs my RX300 AWD 2001? If not the RX400h, what other SUV hybrid would you suggest? Is Volvo coming out with a SUV or station wagon hybrid that would be better?
Thanks for your help!
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Dear Cythnia,
Take a look at these sites:
http://www.edmunds.com/lexus/rx400h/review.html
http://www.hybridcars.com/suvs-minivans/lexus-rx-400h-overview.html
It looks like the Lexus warranty is the standard 8 years 100K miles on the battery. Check with the dealership on cost of the battery, but most of these batteries sell for $2000 or more.
Obviously as they become more advanced at building hybrids these prices will go down.
To compare mileage, go to this website
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/