By Steve Laser
Lexus is gearing up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its flagship LX SUV this year by introducing an array of product enhancements and new technologies for 2025 models. The LX 600 gains a new LX 700h sibling that features the model’s first hybrid system.
A new off-road inspired Overtrail joins the lineup as an LX 700h model. Additional hybrid grades include F SPORT Handling, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury. On the outside, Overtrail is dressed with a matte gray grille, and offers a unique body color called Earth (above and below).
The rugged Overtrail theme continues with additional exterior features finished in dark tones, including the roof rails, fender moldings, mirrors, door handles, and rear bumper garnish.
Overtrail rides on beefy 33-inch all-terrain tires and 18-inch matte gray alloy wheels. While all LX models have a locking center differential and Multi-Terrain Select, Overtrail adds electronically controlled, driver-selectable, front and rear locking differentials.
The LX 700h parallel hybrid teams a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 gas engine with a motor generator, 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, nickel-metal hydride battery, and control system. Total system output is 457 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. (The non-hybrid LX 600 is rated at 409 hp and 479 lb.-ft.).
Lexus says the LX 700h is the first hybrid in its vehicle lineup with an alternator and a starter. If the hybrid system becomes inoperative during extreme off-road use, for example, the starter can start the gas engine, while the alternator can supply power to a 12-volt battery. The journey can continue with gas engine power alone.
Overtrail is fitted with standard three-row 7-passenger seating, while two-row 5-passenger seating is optional. The semi-aniline leather-trimmed interior provides massaging seats for the driver and front passenger. Amenities include a cool box, 2,400-watt AC inverter, wireless phone charger, and six USB-C ports.
The driver is treated to a 12.3-inch multi-information display, plus a separate Lexus Interface with 12.3-inch upper center touchscreen. A Head-Up Display, Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus a 10-speaker Lexus premium sound system are standard. Mark Levinson® 25-speaker premium surround sound is available.
A separate 7.0-inch lower touchscreen includes displays for the climate control system, Multi-Terrain Select, Drive Mode Select, Downhill Assist Control, vehicle height control, Crawl Control, and differential lock status.
All LX models include the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist.
Note: Features and specifications apply to U.S. market models and are subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Lexus
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