Join Pursuitist’s Christopher Parr as he experiences the first drive of the Lexus LX 700h, the brand’s new flagship hybrid SUV, on the scenic roads of Napa Valley. From its 457-horsepower hybrid powertrain to its ultra-luxurious interior and rugged Overtrail trim, discover how Lexus blends cutting-edge technology, refined comfort, and off-road capability in this game-changing luxury SUV. Read our in-depth review to see if the LX 700h is the ultimate hybrid SUV of 2025.
- Big Picture: The 2025 Lexus LX 700h debuts as the brand’s first hybrid flagship SUV, blending luxury and power.
- Why It Matters: A 457-hp hybrid system boosts performance while maintaining Lexus’ signature smooth ride.
- On the Road: Built for wine country cruises and rugged trails alike, it delivers effortless capability.
There’s a new hybrid powerhouse at the top of Lexus’ SUV lineup, and it’s redefining what luxury off-roading can be. Meet the 2025 Lexus LX 700h, a bold evolution of the brand’s flagship full-size SUV.
For thirty years, the LX has stood as Lexus’ ultimate expression of power, refinement, and capability. Now, for the first time ever, it gets a hybrid powertrain, pairing a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with an advanced electric motor system. The result? More horsepower, more torque, and a smoother driving experience—without sacrificing the legendary durability that has defined the LX for decades.
I had the opportunity to drive the LX 700h through Napa Valley, a setting that perfectly suited both its grace and muscle. Winding along the vineyard-lined roads, the hybrid system revealed its magic—quiet, effortless acceleration on the straightaways, with impeccable poise on the hills that roll through wine country. This wasn’t just another luxury SUV; it felt like something new—something uniquely Lexus.
A Trim for Every Type of Driver
The 2025 LX 700h offers five distinct trims, ensuring that whether you crave rugged adventure, track-inspired handling, or pure indulgence, there’s an LX that fits your lifestyle:
- Premium – The well-equipped base trim, featuring high-end materials and Lexus’ latest tech suite.
- F SPORT Handling – A sportier take on the LX, with performance-tuned suspension and aggressive styling.
- Luxury – A balance of power and sophistication, perfect for long road trips or daily drives.
- Ultra Luxury – A chauffeur-driven experience, designed for those who prefer to be pampered in the rear seat.
- Overtrail – The most off-road-capable LX ever built, featuring triple locking differentials, 33-inch tires, and rugged Overtrail badging.
Overtrail: The Ultimate Hybrid Off-Roader
If you’re looking for a serious off-road machine with Lexus luxury, the LX 700h Overtrail is your answer.
- First-ever hybrid LX
- First Lexus/Toyota model with triple locking differentials since the ‘90s
- 33-inch all-terrain tires for maximum traction
- Starting price: $115,350
Under the hood, the LX 700h Overtrail shares its 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with the standard LX 600, but the addition of the hybrid system transforms the experience. Output climbs to 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, a huge leap over the LX 600’s 409 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.
That extra 104 lb-ft of torque isn’t just for show—it makes a difference. On steep climbs, the LX pulls effortlessly, even with the Overtrail’s hefty weight. On dirt roads, where traction is key, the triple-locked differentials work with the hybrid system’s instant torque delivery, giving you complete control.
The LX 700h is the real Land Cruiser for 2025—built for those who demand rugged capability with luxury refinement.
Behind the Wheel: The LX 700h Driving Experience
From the moment I slid behind the wheel, I could tell the LX 700h was something special.
Heading out onto the vineyard-lined backroads of Napa, the first thing I noticed was how effortless the power delivery felt. Unlike a gas-only SUV, where you have to wait for the turbo to spool up, the hybrid system delivers instant torque.
Merging onto the highway, the 10-speed automatic transmission snapped off smooth yet decisive shifts, making acceleration feel fluid and refined. The hybrid assist eliminates any sense of turbo lag, so power comes on without hesitation.
At cruising speeds, the LX 700h is whisper-quiet, thanks to exceptional sound insulation. Even as I picked up speed on long stretches of road cutting through vineyards, wind and road noise were barely noticeable.
Then, as I eased off the throttle approaching a scenic overlook, the hybrid system seamlessly transitioned into EV mode. Unlike some Toyota hybrids, where you can hear the whine of the electric motor, the LX 700h does it with absolute composure—silent, smooth, and luxurious.
When I ventured onto gravel backroads, the ride remained composed. The adaptive suspension absorbed imperfections effortlessly, keeping the LX poised even over washboard surfaces. I wasn’t just driving a luxury SUV—I was driving a vehicle that felt as comfortable on the trails as it did on the highway.
Ultra Luxury: The Pinnacle of Lexus Comfort
For those who would rather be chauffeured than drive, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury is an experience in itself.
Unlike other trims, the Ultra Luxury model removes the third row, instead transforming the second row into a sanctuary of comfort.
The individual captain’s chairs in the second row are unlike anything you’ll find in another full-size SUV. The front passenger seat folds forward, revealing an extendable leg rest that allows you to fully recline—as if you were in first class on an international flight.
Other luxury touches include:
- Vibration-absorbing seat cushions to reduce road harshness
- Curved, sculpted headrests designed for neck and shoulder support
- Rear-seat control panel, allowing passengers to adjust climate, lighting, and audio
- Wireless charging station for rear-seat passengers
Whether you’re relaxing on a long highway drive or being chauffeured to an event, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury provides one of the finest rear-seat experiences available in an SUV.
A Cabin Designed Like a Luxury Lounge
Stepping inside the LX 700h, I was immediately struck by the quality of the materials. Every surface feels purposefully crafted, from the semi-aniline leather upholstery to the beautifully detailed wood and aluminum trims.
Lexus offers a range of finishes, including Hadori Aluminum and Takanoha Wood, each adding to the cabin’s bespoke feel.
From the moment you sit down, you know you’re in something special.
Final Thoughts: The Lexus SUV You’ve Been Waiting For
The 2025 Lexus LX 700h isn’t trying to be something it’s not. It knows exactly what it is—a luxury SUV with serious capability.
If you’re looking for a hybrid alternative to traditional full-size SUVs, the LX 700h is one of the most compelling choices on the market.
- Want a rugged off-roader? The Overtrail trim is built for adventure.
- Prefer luxury overlanding? The Ultra Luxury trim is second to none.
- Need a comfortable yet powerful daily driver? The F SPORT and Luxury trims strike the perfect balance.
Driving through the rolling hills of Napa, the LX 700h proved itself as a luxury SUV with confidence, refinement, and power. You arrive in style and comfort in a dignified, premium SUV that leaves the competition behind.
For those who want a high-end SUV that can do it all, the 2025 Lexus LX 700h is one of the best options on the road today.
Disclaimer: Lexus provided travel and accommodations for this first-drive experience. All opinions are my own. I currently own three Lexus vehicles: a 17-year-old RZ, a 4-year-old GX, and a 2-year-old UX. I might just be a fan of the Lexus brand, due to their long lasting quality, heritage, and renown safety.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Lexus LX 700h
1. What is the starting price of the 2025 Lexus LX 700h?
The 2025 Lexus LX 700h is available in multiple trims, with pricing as follows:
- LX 700h Overtrail – $115,350
- LX 700h F SPORT Handling – $117,850
- LX 700h Luxury – $119,850
- LX 700h Ultra Luxury – $141,350
Pricing may vary depending on additional features, packages, and customizations.
2. What engine powers the Lexus LX 700h?
The LX 700h features a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid system, delivering 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This electrified powertrain is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering instant torque, improved fuel efficiency, and a smoother driving experience compared to its gas-powered predecessor.
3. Does the Lexus LX 700h have a third-row seat?
Yes, the LX 700h Overtrail, F SPORT Handling, and Luxury trims come with a three-row configuration, providing seating for up to seven passengers.
However, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury trim removes the third row entirely, replacing it with plush, individually adjustable second-row captain’s chairs designed for VIP comfort. This setup prioritizes rear-seat space, luxury, and advanced amenities, making it ideal for those who prefer a chauffeur-driven experience.
4. How does the Lexus LX 700h compare to the Toyota Land Cruiser?
The LX 700h is the true Land Cruiser alternative, sharing Toyota’s legendary off-road DNA while offering more power, greater refinement, and hybrid technology.
5. Is the LX 700h good for off-roading?
Absolutely. The LX 700h Overtrail trim is the most off-road-capable LX ever built, featuring:
- Triple locking differentials for maximum traction on rough terrain
- 33-inch all-terrain tires to handle dirt, rocks, and mud with ease
- Adjustable air suspension for improved ground clearance and ride comfort
- Advanced Multi-Terrain Select system with different modes for sand, mud, rock, and snow
- Crawl Control for smooth low-speed maneuvering over tough obstacles
Even with its luxurious interior, the LX 700h is built to handle extreme off-road conditions while maintaining Lexus’ signature comfort.
6. What is the expected fuel economy of the Lexus LX 700h?
Lexus has not yet released official EPA fuel economy ratings, but the LX 700h’s hybrid system is expected to provide better fuel efficiency than the gas-powered LX 600.
Hybrid technology allows the LX 700h to operate in EV mode at low speeds, reducing fuel consumption in city driving. On the highway, the twin-turbo V6 works seamlessly with the electric motor, delivering a balance of power and efficiency.
7. What luxury features does the LX 700h Ultra Luxury trim offer?
The Ultra Luxury trim is designed for rear-seat comfort, offering features found in high-end private jets and executive sedans. It includes:
- Individually reclining rear captain’s chairs with extended leg rests
- Curved headrests and vibration-absorbing cushions for ultimate relaxation
- A rear-seat control panel for adjusting climate, seat position, and ambient lighting
- Premium materials, including semi-aniline leather and handcrafted wood trims
- Rear wireless charging station for convenient device charging
For those who want an SUV that feels like a rolling luxury lounge, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury trim delivers an unmatched experience.
