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Future models - Lexus - LX - 700hLexus LX700h presages LandCruiser hybridAussie debut yet to be confirmed for Lexus LX700h but local arm is all about hybrids11 Oct 2024 LEXUS has unveiled two new variants in its big LandCruiser 300-based LX range, introducing the LX700h model and Overtrail trim this week.
The two new models, one dubbed a ‘performance hybrid’ and the other a more LandCruiser-oriented variant with proper off-roading chops, will join the updated LX600 petrol and LX500d diesel sometime in 2025 – although both are still “under consideration” for Australia.
Importantly, this debut of an electrified LX suggests the brand’s hybrid-mad parent Toyota will add the option to its LandCruiser 300 range. However, like the new Prado i-Force Max hybrid now available overseas but written off for Australia, a local business case could prove too difficult.
Given the existing LX600 petrol is between $3500 and $4700 more than the equivalent diesel LX500d – apart from the petrol-only Ultra Luxury that is a cool $62K more than the least-expensive LX at $217,976 + ORC – the LX700h is likely to carry a solid premium if it joins the internal combustion versions already on sale in Australia.
The LX700h is driven by a parallel hybrid system that pairs a 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine with a motor/generator and a clutch, linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Outputs have not been confirmed, but it will likely offer the same 326kW and 790Nm produced by its Australia-bound platform mate, the Toyota Tundra pickup, which has a similar petrol-electric propulsion system.
Accommodating the hybrid powertrain required changes to the LX’s body-on-frame GA-F platform. An additional crossmember and reinforced rear engine mounts help support the increased weight and length while adjustments to the mounting cushions have also been made for improved strength and rigidity.
The Japanese luxury brand’s latest of many hybrid models is also its first electrified product with a wading depth of 700mm – matching petrol and diesel LX variants – and its first hybrid to feature both an alternator and a starter motor as a kind of failsafe that enables certain vehicle functions to operate without relying on the high voltage system.
Its hybrid system maximises efficiency and performance by adjusting between electric-only and engine-only modes depending on driving conditions.
For off-road driving, the electric motor can be used independently of the petrol engine in low-range situations. Lexus says that, combined with the Multi-Terrain Select modes, this is intended to offer better throttle control for demanding conditions.
The Overtrail grade, which will be available across all powertrain options, brings the LX closer to the capabilities of its LandCruiser 300 sibling, just as the Overtrail version of the Lexus GX does with its Prado-based modifications.
The Overtrail package – pictured here on the LX700h – adds locking differentials front and rear, 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, and a 30-litre auxiliary fuel tank for a total capacity of 110 litres.
Setting its look further apart from regular models, the Overtrail grade adds a blacked-out treatment to the grille, bumpers, mirrors, door handles and roof rails, along with a new Moon Desert exterior colour reminiscent of Apple’s Desert Titanium finish for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Beyond these two new models, the 2025 LX range gains a bigger 12.3-inch full LCD screen in all models, replacing the previous eight-inch unit. In the petrol-electric LX700h, this new screen includes the ability to monitor hybrid battery charge status.
In terms of safety, the LX700h benefits from the latest ‘Lexus Safety System +’ (LSS+), adding emergency driving stop system, driver monitor camera and safe exit assist.
Lexus Australia is expected to provide more details on local availability and pricing as the 2025 LX model approaches its launch.
According to VFACTS figures for September, Lexus has sold 354 examples of the LX so far in 2024, compared to 550 Range Rovers and a huge 12,274 for wagons in the three-model LandCruiser family – which also benefits from significant fleet volume.  Read more19th of September 2024  Tundra (finally) on-sale Down Under from NovemberToyota confirms Tundra available from November, following six-year developmentAll future models Alfa Romeo Abarth Alpine Alpina Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chery Brabham Chrysler Chevrolet Cupra Citroen DS Dodge Fiat Ferrari Foton Ford Great Wall FPV Haval GWM Honda Holden Hummer HSV Infiniti Hyundai Jaguar Isuzu Kia Jeep Land Rover Lamborghini Lexus LDV Mahindra Lotus Mazda Maserati Mercedes-AMG McLaren MG Mercedes-Benz Mitsubishi Mini Opel Nissan Peugeot Pagani Proton Porsche Renault Ram Rover Rolls-Royce Skoda Saab SsangYong Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Tesla Volvo VolkswagenLX pricingMotor industry news GoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events. |
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