Lexus LX 700h unveiled: Hybrid engine, equipped with Off-Road Trail package

With the introduction of the LX 700h model, the "flagship" SUV has been elevated to a new level, now equipped with a hybrid engine (Photo: Lexus).

The heart of the hybrid system used for the LX 700h is a twin-turbo V6 engine, with a displacement of 3.5L, combined with a generator and a clutch, located between the engine and the 10-speed automatic transmission.

Lexus states that the hybrid system of the LX 700h produces 457 horsepower and 790Nm of torque, surpassing the specifications of the Toyota Tundra i-Force Max (437 horsepower and 790Nm). This engine is also used for the Toyota Land Cruiser model.

Lexus estimates that the LX 700h will consume fuel at an average of 11.8 liters per 100km according to the US Environmental Protection Agency standards.

With a weight of around 2,780kg, the LX 700h is heavier than the non-hybrid LX 600 by 120kg. This additional weight includes a backup generator to start the engine without using the electric motor if needed.

The Moon Desert exterior paint color is only available on the Overtrail version, along with details like the bumpers, grille, wheel arches, door mirrors, and door handles in black (Photo: Lexus).

Unlike previous Lexus models with parallel hybrid systems, the LX 700h is equipped with both a generator and a starter motor. This allows the vehicle to operate solely on the gasoline engine in case the hybrid system malfunctions or does not operate.

In true Lexus fashion, important off-road systems like the Lo-range transmission, Active Height Control, and Active Traction Control are retained to ensure the off-road capabilities of the LX series.

Under the cargo bay is a high-voltage battery pack, the capacity of which is currently unknown, along with a 12V auxiliary battery. All of this is housed in a waterproof tray with water sensors, allowing the vehicle to wade through water up to 700mm deep. The waterproof AC inverter provides external power up to 1,500W or 2,400W, depending on the area, through multiple outlets.

Lexus engineers have also refined the structure of the GA-F chassis of the LX series, redesigned the cabin insulation to reduce low-frequency vibrations, and updated the AVS system and Lo-transfer gearbox to improve overall driving quality for the vehicle. The steering wheel response has also been improved.

Additionally, the LX 700h has been equipped with new cross-braces, while the rear engine mounts have been reinforced to offset the added weight of the hybrid system.

In terms of structure, the Lexus LX 700h has been supplemented with a third cross-member to support the hybrid engine system (Photo: Lexus).

In terms of exterior design, the LX 700h does not differ much from the standard versions, except for the "700h" badge on the rear door. However, Lexus introduces the Overtrail version that focuses on off-road capabilities, drawing inspiration from the smaller GX and NX models.

The Overtrail version comes with distinctive matte gray aluminum wheels, combined with 265/70R18 off-road tires - a first for the LX series.

Inside the vehicle, the Overtrail model features single-color leather upholstery along with black wood trim accents. More importantly, this special edition is equipped with front and rear differential locks, along with a center differential lock - standard equipment on all versions.

The LX 700h features a 12.3-inch digital display screen instead of the 8-inch version found in other models (Photo: Lexus).

The parallel hybrid technology allows the Lexus LX 700h to operate independently using either the gasoline or electric motor (Photo: Lexus).

On all variants, Lexus has upgraded the technology, starting with the new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and faster wireless charging pads. All Lexus LX vehicles now come with the new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and upgraded wireless charging pads to support faster charging speeds.

The VIP and Executive versions are equipped with "relaxation seats" for both the driver and front passenger, with 5 massage programs, including full-body and targeted massage options with different intensity levels.

The latest Lexus Safety System+ is also introduced, bringing along many additional safety features.

In the US, the Overtrail version will only be available on the LX700h model, with 2 or 3 rows of seats (Photo: Lexus).