The recently launched Lexus LX700h marks a significant step forward for Lexus’ flagship SUV, blending luxury, off-road capability, and hybrid efficiency in a way that appeals to a niche but discerning audience.
We were invited to the launch event, had a close look at the vehicle and eventually got a chance to evaluate the vehicle. Here’s our take, grounded in the details of its design, performance, and market positioning.
The combination of a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 and an electric motor delivers 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, a noticeable improvement over the non-hybrid LX600’s 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. This boost in power, paired with a slight improvement in fuel economy makes it a more refined and responsive option for buyers who want both performance and a nod toward efficiency.
The hybrid system’s design, with redundant alternator and starter features, also underscores Lexus’ commitment to reliability, ensuring the vehicle remains functional even if the hybrid system fails—a critical consideration for an SUV marketed for rugged, off-road use.
The introduction of the Overtrail trim is another highlight. Unlike many “rugged” trims that are purely cosmetic, the LX700h Overtrail offers meaningful off-road enhancements, such as front and rear locking differentials, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and skid plates.
These features, combined with the hybrid system’s ability to deliver smooth, precise torque in low-speed off-road scenarios, position the LX700h as a legitimate competitor to luxury off-roaders like the Land Rover Defender or Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while maintaining Lexus’ signature refinement.
Inside, the interior, while luxurious, feels dated in some respects, especially given the price point. The reliance on a dual-screen infotainment system and the absence of physical HVAC controls can make the cabin feel less intuitive and upscale than expected for a vehicle in this segment.
Additionally, the third-row seating is cramped, and the hybrid battery’s placement under the rear floor compromises cargo space, which could be a dealbreaker for families or those prioritizing practicality.
From an efficiency standpoint, the LX700h’s hybrid system prioritizes power over fuel economy, which is a deliberate choice but may disappoint buyers expecting more significant gains in kilometers per liter, especially when compared to hybrid SUVs in lower price brackets.
At nearly 6,200 pounds, the vehicle’s weight also limits its agility, despite efforts like the F Sport Handling trim’s suspension tuning and rear Torsen differential. This reinforces the LX700h’s identity as a luxury cruiser rather than a dynamic driver’s car, which is fine but may not meet the expectations of buyers looking for a more engaging on-road experience.
In the broader market context, the LX700h occupies a unique but narrow niche. It’s not trying to compete directly with high-volume luxury SUVs like the BMW X7 or Cadillac Escalade, which prioritize on-road comfort and tech over off-road prowess. Instead, it targets affluent buyers who value the combination of Lexus’ renowned reliability, overlanding capability, and first-class daily driving comfort. This is a small but growing demographic, fueled by the recent trend of vehicle-supported adventure travel, and Lexus has smartly capitalized on it with the Overtrail trim.
However, the LX700h’s high price and limited sales volume suggest it’s more of a halo product for the brand than a mainstream contender.
Critically, it’s worth questioning whether the LX700h’s electrification is more of a marketing move than a genuine step toward sustainability. While it reduces CO2 emissions compared to the LX600, the modest fuel economy gains and focus on performance over efficiency indicate that Lexus is catering to buyer demands for power and capability rather than pushing a truly transformative environmental agenda. This aligns with Toyota’s broader strategy of prioritizing hybrids over full EVs, which may be pragmatic but risks falling behind competitors who are more aggressively pursuing electrification.
The Overtrail trim is the standout, offering genuine off-road prowess without sacrificing comfort, making it the best choice in the range. However, its polarizing design, dated interior elements, and modest efficiency gains hold it back from being a class leader.
It’s a perfect SUV for a very specific buyer—someone who needs Land Cruiser toughness, LS-level luxury, and the ability to venture far off the beaten path—but for the broader luxury SUV market, it remains a niche, albeit compelling, option.
We were invited to the launch event, had a close look at the vehicle and eventually got a chance to evaluate the vehicle. Here’s our take, grounded in the details of its design, performance, and market positioning.
Lexus LX700h: Positives
On the positive side, the LX700h’s hybrid powertrain is a welcome addition, especially for a model that lagged behind in electrification compared to the rest of Lexus’ lineup.The combination of a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 and an electric motor delivers 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, a noticeable improvement over the non-hybrid LX600’s 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. This boost in power, paired with a slight improvement in fuel economy makes it a more refined and responsive option for buyers who want both performance and a nod toward efficiency.
The hybrid system’s design, with redundant alternator and starter features, also underscores Lexus’ commitment to reliability, ensuring the vehicle remains functional even if the hybrid system fails—a critical consideration for an SUV marketed for rugged, off-road use.
The introduction of the Overtrail trim is another highlight. Unlike many “rugged” trims that are purely cosmetic, the LX700h Overtrail offers meaningful off-road enhancements, such as front and rear locking differentials, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and skid plates.
These features, combined with the hybrid system’s ability to deliver smooth, precise torque in low-speed off-road scenarios, position the LX700h as a legitimate competitor to luxury off-roaders like the Land Rover Defender or Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while maintaining Lexus’ signature refinement.
Lexus LX700h: Negatives
The LX700h isn’t without its flaws. The exterior design, particularly the oversized spindle grille, remains polarizing and, in my view, detracts from the vehicle’s overall aesthetic appeal. While it certainly looks expensive, it lacks the cohesive elegance of competitors or even Lexus’ own smaller GX model.
Inside, the interior, while luxurious, feels dated in some respects, especially given the price point. The reliance on a dual-screen infotainment system and the absence of physical HVAC controls can make the cabin feel less intuitive and upscale than expected for a vehicle in this segment.
Additionally, the third-row seating is cramped, and the hybrid battery’s placement under the rear floor compromises cargo space, which could be a dealbreaker for families or those prioritizing practicality.
From an efficiency standpoint, the LX700h’s hybrid system prioritizes power over fuel economy, which is a deliberate choice but may disappoint buyers expecting more significant gains in kilometers per liter, especially when compared to hybrid SUVs in lower price brackets.
At nearly 6,200 pounds, the vehicle’s weight also limits its agility, despite efforts like the F Sport Handling trim’s suspension tuning and rear Torsen differential. This reinforces the LX700h’s identity as a luxury cruiser rather than a dynamic driver’s car, which is fine but may not meet the expectations of buyers looking for a more engaging on-road experience.
In the broader market context, the LX700h occupies a unique but narrow niche. It’s not trying to compete directly with high-volume luxury SUVs like the BMW X7 or Cadillac Escalade, which prioritize on-road comfort and tech over off-road prowess. Instead, it targets affluent buyers who value the combination of Lexus’ renowned reliability, overlanding capability, and first-class daily driving comfort. This is a small but growing demographic, fueled by the recent trend of vehicle-supported adventure travel, and Lexus has smartly capitalized on it with the Overtrail trim.
However, the LX700h’s high price and limited sales volume suggest it’s more of a halo product for the brand than a mainstream contender.
Critically, it’s worth questioning whether the LX700h’s electrification is more of a marketing move than a genuine step toward sustainability. While it reduces CO2 emissions compared to the LX600, the modest fuel economy gains and focus on performance over efficiency indicate that Lexus is catering to buyer demands for power and capability rather than pushing a truly transformative environmental agenda. This aligns with Toyota’s broader strategy of prioritizing hybrids over full EVs, which may be pragmatic but risks falling behind competitors who are more aggressively pursuing electrification.
What’s the final verdict?
In summary, the Lexus LX700h is an impressive evolution of the LX lineup, excelling as a luxurious, capable off-roader with the added refinement of hybrid power.The Overtrail trim is the standout, offering genuine off-road prowess without sacrificing comfort, making it the best choice in the range. However, its polarizing design, dated interior elements, and modest efficiency gains hold it back from being a class leader.
It’s a perfect SUV for a very specific buyer—someone who needs Land Cruiser toughness, LS-level luxury, and the ability to venture far off the beaten path—but for the broader luxury SUV market, it remains a niche, albeit compelling, option.
