Hands up everybody who sees a Lexus and immediately thinks ‘phwoarrr, off- roader’. Anybody?
Well. While the Lexus range in New Zealand tops out at the rather urban LX500 F Sport and 500d (227kW, $189,000), the USA gets a seriously big off-road-capable beast: the LX700 Overtrail.
SUVs equipped with off-road packages are now commonplace. Examples in the USA include the GMC Yukon AT4, Ford Expedition Tremor, and Nissan Armada PRO-4X. Now, there’s a new player in the game: the the 700h Overtrail. This hybrid- powered SUV combines the model’s flagship luxury with “heightened off-road capability.”
In America the LX range is now the LX 600 and the first-ever LX 700h.
Both models use the GA-F platform, introduced in 2022. The LX 700h features a three-cross frame to accommodate its extended length and heavier weight. There is also a new spare tire cross, which repositions the spare tire to facilitate the fitment of the hybrid main battery.
The suspension system is a double- wishbone set-up up front and a multi-link rear.
The GA-F platform has been tuned to provide a linear response to steering inputs and preserve wheel articulation without compromising off-road performance.
The 2025 Lexus LX 700h is the first LX to offer a hybrid powertrain system. It uses a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The transmission features an oil pan guard to help reduce the risk of damage on rocky trails.
The hybrid system produces 340kW and 790Nm of torque. A nickel-metal hydride battery powers the hybrid system, and it is encased in a waterproof structure divided into upper and lower sections. This design prevents water from entering during deep water crossings, ensuring the LX 700h’s fording capability of 700mm.
This is also Lexus’ first hybrid system to include an alternator and starter as standard components. If the hybrid system fails, the starter will start the engine, and the alternator will power the 12-volt battery, enabling the LX 700h to be driven using just the engine.
The Overtrail package adds locking front and rear differentials to the LX 700h. These combine with the standard LX full-time four-wheel-drive system and electronic locking centre differential.
Other Overtrail equipment includes 33-inch all-terrain tires, 18-inch wheels, and a front skidplate. The package features a waterproof 2,400-watt AC inverter and all-weather floor liners.
Finally, the LX 700h can be driven with the transfer case in low range, using only the electric motor for propulsion. This is a first for Lexus and works in conjunction with the Multi-Terrain Select modes. Lexus says this motor-only driving is ideal in scenarios requiring precise throttle control.
