Lexus is proud to introduce exciting new enhancements to the LX line-up, including the debut of the LX 700h, featuring the brand’s newly developed hybrid system.
Since its inception in 1989, Lexus has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, always striving to deliver cutting-edge technology and exceptional value to customers.
In line with our ongoing pursuit of a carbon-neutral society and our desire to enrich the automotive experience, Lexus continues to expand its diverse range of vehicles to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.
The LX is Lexus’ flagship SUV, defined by the concept of ‘effortless and refined driving on any road around the world.’ It blends exceptional driving performance with the signature Lexus comfort, handling diverse terrains while providing a luxurious driving experience.
Available in three striking grades – Overtrail, F SPORT, and VIP – the LX 700h delivers exhilarating performance. The 3.5-litre V6 hybrid engine in the petrol variant generates an impressive 341kW of power, making this LX the most powerful model to date.
For those seeking a diesel option the LX (F SPORT and Overtrail) delivers 225kW. With a 10-speed automatic transmission, drivers enjoy quick, seamless shifts, whether navigating city streets or rugged terrain.
Introducing the LX 700h
With the introduction of the LX 700h, Lexus has developed a new parallel hybrid system that maintains all the amazing virtues that the LX is renowned for, even as the automotive world shifts towards electrification.
The new system utilises motor torque to provide the signature Lexus driving experience, while also significantly reducing annual CO2 emissions across all global vehicles, further enhancing environmental performance.
The vehicle is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System + (LSS+) to further improve safety and provide peace of mind to drivers.
A New Era in Overtrail
In line with its commitment to meet the diverse needs of global customers, Lexus has introduced the new Overtrail series.
The Lexus Overtrail Project
Lexus continues its commitment to offering vehicles suited for diverse customer lifestyles through the Overtrail. The new LX 700h will be available in an exclusive Overtrail edition, featuring unique equipment, design, and colour options tailored to adventurous, outdoor-oriented customers.
- Exterior Design: The Overtrail model features a black gloss spindle grille, matte grey wheels, and blacked-out components to create a rugged, professional look.
- Exclusive Colour: “Moon Desert” is a new, unique body colour designed to evoke a premium, off-road aesthetic.
- Interior Design: The interior is enhanced with a refined “monolith” colour scheme, including ash burl black ornamentation.
- Exclusive Equipment: The Overtrail edition includes front and rear differential locks and all-terrain tyres for enhanced off-road performance.
Takami Yokoo, Lexus International Chief Engineer
“In 2021, the LX underwent a full model change based on the concept of ‘effortless and refined driving on any road.’ The positive reception from customers worldwide was immensely gratifying.
However, it presented a challenge within the Lexus lineup as it remained the only model without an electrified option – despite our commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society. For those of us involved in the LX’s development, electrifying this model for global environments was both a formidable challenge and a long-held goal.
Throughout development, we prioritised ensuring that the LX’s core qualities – reliability, durability, and off-road capability – would not be compromised with the introduction of electrification. Our goal was to develop a solution that would allow customers to return home safely while still delivering the true Lexus driving experience. This led us to the development of a new parallel hybrid system and enhancements to the GA-F platform, bringing the next chapter of electrification to the LX.”
New Parallel Hybrid System
The LX 700h’s hybrid system features a parallel hybrid configuration, integrating a motor generator with a clutch positioned between the 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This system retains critical off-road features such as full-time 4WD, a Lo-range transfer case, and a torque converter-equipped automatic transmission. These features ensure that the combined power and torque from the engine and motor are effectively transmitted to the road, optimising performance across various driving conditions.
The hybrid control system intelligently manages the transition between engine-only and motor-only modes, optimising performance based on driving demands. Notably, this is the first Lexus system to incorporate both an alternator and a starter as standard components. In case of hybrid system failure, the starter enables independent engine ignition, and the alternator powers the 12V auxiliary battery, allowing the vehicle to continue driving on engine power alone.
Despite operating in this mode, critical off-road features such as the transfer case’s Lo-range, ride height adjustment via Active Height Control (AHC), and Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) remain fully operational, ensuring continued off-road capability.
Water Fording Capability and Performance
The LX 700h is equipped with a waterproof structure encasing the hybrid main battery in a sealed tray, preventing water ingress during deep water crossings. This design enables a fording capability of 700mm, comparable to that of traditional engine vehicles. If water does enter the tray, a sensor detects the presence of water and alerts the driver.
Harnessing both motor torque and the high-displacement twin-turbo engine, the LX 700h delivers responsive acceleration and powerful performance across all speed ranges. In off-road conditions, the vehicle can leverage motor-driven power in Lo-range, providing enhanced control on challenging terrains like rocky paths, dirt roads, and deep snow.
Enhanced External Power Supply
The LX 700h also features a waterproof AC inverter beneath the centre console, providing an external power supply of up to 1500W. This allows users to power various devices or serve as an emergency power source in the event of a disaster.
GA-F Platform Upgrades
To accommodate the additional weight and length from the motor generator, the LX 700h’s GA-F platform has been upgraded with new components. This includes a specially designed cross member to ensure optimal ground clearance and enhanced durability to support the increased powertrain weight. A new spare tyre cross member and the relocation of the 12V auxiliary battery also help balance off-road capability with serviceability.
The Pursuit of a Unified Driving Experience: Lexus Driving Signature
At Lexus, we are dedicated to achieving a unified driving experience across our entire lineup, embodied by the Lexus Driving Signature. This philosophy emphasises “engaging driving dialogue” with the car, ensuring that drivers feel in tune with the vehicle. For the LX 700h, extensive testing on various surfaces and environments has led to enhancements that ensure a seamless driving experience both on and off-road.
Rigidity and Comfort Enhancements
The new LX features improvements in rigidity, including the adoption of reinforced components such as the radiator support and instrument panel, resulting in more precise steering responses.
Additionally, newly designed cab mount cushions reduce low-frequency vibrations, improving ride comfort while retaining the durability and off-road performance of a body-on-frame vehicle. The evolution of the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system further enhances ride comfort by improving dampening force control for a smoother and more stable ride over rough terrain.
Enhanced Features and Equipment
The introduction of the hybrid model brings additional features to both the hybrid and traditional engine models, enhancing comfort and convenience for all drivers.
- 12.3-inch Full LCD Meter: Customisable displays enhance driver focus and provide important driving information.
- Front Refresh Seats: Available in VIP models, these new air bladder-based seats help reduce fatigue with multiple massage options and adjustable intensity.
- Upgraded Wireless Charging: The wireless charging pad now supports faster charging and is available both in the front and rear centre consoles of VIP models.
In Conclusion: With the introduction of the LX 700h, Lexus is once again setting new standards in the luxury SUV market. This hybrid model embodies the brand’s commitment to sustainability, driving performance, and customer satisfaction, offering a refined driving experience that remains true to the legendary LX spirit.
PRICING
- 500 DIESEL F SPORT – R2 557 500
- 500 DIESEL OVERTRAIL – R2 577 400
- 700h F SPORT – R2 666 500
- 700h OVERTRAIL – R2 703 600
- 700h VIP – R3 092 100
The Lexus LX boasts a 7-year/100 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. Vehicle service intervals are pegged at 10 000km for both HEV and diesel models – alternatively once a year. 700h models come with an additional 8-year/195 000km hybrid battery warranty.
