I bought a 2006 Hybrid Lexus 400h on the recommendation of my mechanic who owns 2 and is also a wholesaler.
Two other mutual friends have also bought the same model. Never though I’d buy a hybrid, especially and old one. It rates as one of the best used vehicles to own in regards to minimal repairs needed. You can expect 300,000 miles if taken care of.
Gets 20 MPG, burns regular gas and is very comfortable and loaded with all the goodies.
Funny thing is people often pay more for comparable Toyota models where the Lexus is built better and is usually better taken care of by the original owners because they paid so much for it.
As long as other buyers reject the idea of owning an older Lexus hybrid the prices will remain low.
Toyota has been building hybrids since 1997. If I happen to see you broke down on the road I’ll give you a lift or a tow! Mine came with a factory hitch and All Wheel Drive.
There are other considerations, such as maintenance costs, parts costs and insurance costs. Ever heard the old saying, “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride”? There’s a reason the Camry LE is (was) so popular, and that’s best bang for the buck in all categories including longevity.
I drive a 2023 Lexus RX350h. 2.5L Atkinson cycle Hybrid. The battery is NiMH, not Li-Ion. No worries about fires. I get 40+ mpg in the summer, but 32-35 in the colder months in mixed mode driving. Great car. Not easy to get and $$$$. But Toyota pioneered Hybrid technology and they are the wizards at it. They also are being dragging kicking and screaming towards BEVs. Toyota also is the biggest player in hydrogen cars, which I think is even better, and a simpler infrastructure with fast refueling times. This is a smart move for them. The battery boost at takeoff is sweet really, even for a heavy car like the RX. If you want something beefy with a V8 - get a GX. Those are terrific SUVs.