LEXUS WILL INTRODUCE A PERFORMANCE HYBRID and an Overtrail grade for off-road enthusiasts when it launches the updated LX in 2025.
The two exciting global additions to the flagship Lexus SUV model show how Lexus continues to evolve its luxury lineup to meet the needs of customers.
The headline is the LX 700h – the first Lexus SUV with a powerful hybrid powertrain designed specifically for the strenuous demands of off-roading.
Both the LX 700h and Overtrail grades will be considered for when the updated LX comes to Australia.
Alongside the LX 600 petrol and LX 500d diesel, the LX hybrid gives customers the choice of three distinctive powertrains to suit their diverse needs.
Lexus chose a newly-designed high-performance parallel hybrid unit for LX 700h to preserve the reliability and durability customers expect when heading deep into bush or snow.
It is the first Lexus hybrid SUV with a wading depth (700mm) comparable to ICE off-roaders, and the first Lexus parallel hybrid to feature both an alternator and a starter motor, reducing reliance on the electric motor for selected vehicle functions.
The Overtrail grade, which bolsters the LX’s already well-established off-road credentials, will be offered with all LX powertrains.
The addition of Overtrail to LX comes off the back of its successful introduction on the recently launched second-generation GX.
Lexus International Chief Engineer, Takami Yokoo, says the LX 700h embraces the next chapter of electrification for the brand.
“During development, we were determined in our commitment not to compromise the reliability, durability, and off-road performance that has defined previous LX models, even with electrification,” Mr Yokoo said.
“For those of us who have been deeply involved with the LX over the years, electrifying it for use in demanding global environments seemed both an immense challenge and a long-held aspiration.
“Our goal was to preserve the true Lexus driving experience. The solution we reached, as a unified development team, was the development of a new parallel hybrid system along with upgrades to the GA-F platform.”
Lx 700h 2024 
First parallel hybrid system for LX
The LX 700h’s parallel hybrid system integrates the motor/generator with a clutch between the 3.5L V6 twin-turbo petrol engine and 10-speed automatic transmission with torque converter. This configuration maintains key features like full-time 4WD and a low-range transfer case.
The benefit for drivers with a parallel hybrid is combining the instant torque of an electric motor with a torque-rich, high-displacement engine for smooth, linear and powerful acceleration from standstill and at cruising speeds.
The hybrid control system also intelligently manages the transition between engine-only and motor-only modes, optimising performance based on driving conditions.
In this way, the electric motor can be used independently of the ICE for low-range driving. In conjunction with the various modes of Multi-Terrain Select, this setup is ideal for when conditions require precise throttle control, such as on rocky trails, chopped-up dirt roads, and in deep snow.
The LX 700h’s suitability across all types of driving conditions – both on and off road – further enhances the Lexus Driving Signature (LDS) with predictable vehicle dynamics faithful to the driver’s input.
Importantly, fitting a starter motor to the parallel hybrid unit enables engine ignition independent of the electric motor, while the alternator powers the 12V auxiliary battery to allow the LX 700h to continue driving using the ICE only if required.
Essential off-road functions including ride height adjustment using Active Height Control2 (AHC), and Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) remain fully operational, ensuring continued off-road capability when the electric motor is not in use.
The LX 700h loses no capability when faced with deep water crossings. A specially designed waterproof casing for the main hybrid battery helps prevent water ingress to an impressive wading depth of 700mm.
It is also fitted with a waterproof AC invertor located under the centre console for external power supply of up to 1500W or 2400W, depending on the region.
Introducing LX Overtrail
Overtrail builds upon the LX’s already outstanding off-road credentials by adding further practicality, convenience and style into the mix.
The new grade, available in five-seat configuration, adds front and rear locking differentials to provide equal power transfer across the front and rear driveshafts for better traction over soft and loose terrain.
Exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres maximise off-road grip, with serious adventurers now able to go deeper into the wilds thanks to a 30-litre auxiliary fuel tank increasing total capacity to 110 litres.
Bespoke exterior design enhancements include black radiator grille with front and rear bumpers, wheel arches, outer mirrors, door handles and roof rails also in black tones. Overtrail grade seats and ornamentation create interior differentiation, while Moon Desert exterior colour is now offered with Overtrail.
A larger 12.3-inch full LCD display screen replaces the current eight-inch version on all LX grades, along with added functionality. Overtrail customers are able to further personalise the display with hybrid battery charge status.
Improved Body and Safety
The LX’s body-on-frame GA-F platform is improved to accommodate the parallel hybrid powertrain. An additional, third crossmember with an optimised cross-section and greater plate thickness supports the powertrain’s added length and weight, together with upgraded rear engine mounts.
A redesign of the mounting cushions that attach the upper body deliver improved strength and torsional rigidity, with the added benefit of reducing low-frequency vibrations inherent in this type of design, further suppressing road noise to create an even quieter cabin.
The latest iteration of the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+) adds further protection for vehicle occupants and other road users alike. Highlights include Emergency Driving Stop System2 (EDSS), Driver Monitor Camera (DMC) and Safe Exit Assist (SEA).
Lexus Australia will share further news on the upgraded LX model in due course.
2025 LX 700h prototype specifications
| Overall Length | 5100mm |
| Overall Width | 1990mm |
| Overall Height | 1885-1895mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850mm |
| Weight | 2780kg |
| Powertrain | 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo hybrid system with full-time four-wheel drive. |