By Otsile Kadiege

The Lexus brand is gradually transitioning to electrification and their latest model to get electrified is the brand’s flagship LX SUV. Dubbed the LX700h, the newly added derivative ushers in a new parallel hybrid system as well as numerous other updates like platform updates, enhanced features and equipment, enhanced safety features, and a new Overtrail edition featuring specialized equipment and unique interior and exterior colors inspired by the Lexus Overtrail Project.

Hybridised V6 twin-turbo engine

In a bid to preserve the LX’s legendary reliability, durability, and off-road performance during the transition to electrification, Lexus have adopted a parallel hybrid system that integrates a motor generator (MG) with a clutch positioned between the 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission (total system outputs are yet to be announced). This configuration maintains key features like full-time 4WD, a Lo-range transfer case, and a torque converter-equipped automatic transmission, ensuring that the combined high output and torque from both the engine and motor are effectively transmitted to the road. The hybrid control system intelligently manages the transition between engine-only and motor-only modes, optimizing performance based on driving conditions.

Additionally, this is the first Lexus system to feature both an alternator and a starter as standard components, a departure from previous Lexus parallel hybrid models. In the event of a hybrid system failure, the starter enables independent engine ignition, while the alternator powers the 12V auxiliary battery, allowing the vehicle to continue driving using only the engine. Even in this emergency driving mode, essential features such as the transfer case’s Lo-range, ride height adjustment using Active Height Control (AHC), and Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) remain fully operational, ensuring continued off-road capability.

GA-F Platform Upgrades

To accommodate the added weight and extended length of the powertrain resulting from the addition of the motor generator (MG), an exclusive cross member (Cross member No. 3) has been added. This design optimizes the cross-section and plate thickness, achieving a low profile while ensuring a minimum ground clearance comparable to that of the engine models. Additionally, the material used for the rear engine mount has been upgraded to a more durable option to support the increased powertrain weight.

Furthermore, a new spare tyre cross has been designed to reposition the spare tyre in order to facilitate the installation of the hybrid main battery in the rear floor. This adjustment optimizes the mounting angle, lowering the installation position while maintaining the departure angle, thereby balancing off-road capability with serviceability.

The 12V auxiliary battery has been relocated from the engine compartment to the side of the rear deck. A dedicated metal tray and detachable battery brace have been added to enhance ease of replacement while improving body rigidity around the rear quarter area.

The cab mount cushions used to attach the body to the frame have been completely redesigned. Strengthening the joint rigidity during frame and body twisting significantly reduces low-frequency vibrations typical of body-on-frame based vehicles. This new design maintains the frame vehicle’s inherent advantages, such as high durability and excellent road noise insulation, while delivering a responsive and more refined ride.

Interior upgrades

Inside, the LX700h adopts a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster which displays essential driving support information. long with standard information like auxiliary battery voltage and engine oil pressure, drivers can customize the display to include features such as a boost meter or hybrid battery charge status (hybrid models only). Additionally, the vehicle animations for mode transitions in Drive Mode Select and Multi-Terrain Select have been completely redesigned. The wireless charging pad on the center console has been upgraded to support fast charging.

A new air bladder-based refresh seat has been added to help alleviate front-seat occupant fatigue. Accessible through the center display, users can activate or deactivate the function and choose from five massage options―two full-body and three targeted area courses. Additionally, the intensity can be adjusted across five different levels for a customized experience.

Safety and driver assistance systems upgrades

The new LX is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System +. This updated system includes Proactive Driving Assist that offers appropriate support based on driving conditions, as well as optimized control tailored to the driver’s behavior through integration with a driver monitoring system. Other noteworthy assistance systems include Radar Cruise Control (with all-speed follow function), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Driver Abnormality Response System.

Availability

Lexus South Africa is yet to announce local availability.