Latest powerhouse vehicle on the highway: Lexus LX 700h receives rave reviews in car evaluation
Launch of the Fourth-Generation Lexus LX and Toyota Land Cruiser LC300: A 2021 Automotive Highlight Now Offered in Hybrid Form
The newest fourth-generation Lexus LX and its Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 counterpart were among the most eagerly anticipated automotive events of 2021, and ever since their release, they've been selling briskly, akin to popular shawarma stands. Now, Lexus has introduced a hybrid variant, the LX 700h, touted as the most potent and fuel-efficient LX yet, but at a steep starting price of Dh590,000, is it worth twice as much as an LC300?
Design and Aesthetics
While the LX and LC300 share familial ties, the LX carries a distinct identity of its own. This full-size SUV (5,100 mm x 1,990 mm x 1,895 mm) exudes an undeniable visual heft, rivaled only by the Escalade. And it's not just about bulk—it's about drama. The sprawling spindle grille (some might argue with one slat too many) and angular headlamps adorned with triple-eye LED units bestow a commanding presence. A tall, robust hood, adorned with a central concave indentation for enhanced forward visibility, reinforces the SUV's imposing stance. The traditional two-box silhouette further accentuates its robust persona, ultimately giving way to giant 22-inch forged multi-spoke alloy wheels, which lend the LX a touch of refined chic. At the rear, the tailpipe is discreetly concealed, subtly hinting at its green credentials.
Entry into the LX 700h is made easier with a side step and an A-pillar grab handle. Once inside, the cabin offers a luxurious ambiance, as one would expect from Lexus, boasting leather-clad surfaces, warm wood accents, and high-tech screens—all marked by impeccable craftsmanship. A unique dual-screen setup consists of a 12.3-inch screen for navigation and media and a smaller seven-inch display below for drive modes and climate control. While the centre console exudes sophistication, the abundance of buttons muddies the operational picture. The leather-and-wood steering wheel is a pleasure to grip, while large, well-positioned controls round out the interior's tactile appeal.
Comfort and Practicality
Although the second row is ample, the third row's seating position forces a knees-up posture due to the high floor, and there's no panoramic sunroof available. However, the cargo space improves considerably when the second and third rows are folded down, offering nearly 1,800 litres. Inside the boot, a versatile three-point plug is handy for a laptop or grill, and the vehicle can tow up to 3,500 kg.
Powertrain and Performance
The LX 700h can be started using a fancy fingerprint sensor on the push-start switch, but its placement may lead to confusion regarding infotainment controls. Under the hood, one will find a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6, coupled with a single electric motor powered by a small nickel-metal-hydride battery. This setup provides smooth, broad power, and the shift-by-wire transmission, along with a stubby toggle-style shifter, ensures seamless gear changes. The combined output of 457 PS and 790 Nm represents a substantial boost over the LX 600's 409 hp and 650 Nm, but the increased weight somewhat offsets the advantage. On the road, the LX 700h glides like a luxury limousine over rough patches, providing a more refined experience than the LC300, though body roll becomes evident during snappy maneuvers. In acceleration tests, it consistently clocked under 7.5 seconds, roughly comparable to its siblings, but its fuel economy, returning a dismal 5.4 kilometres per litre, was unremarkable, even for a hybrid vehicle. A plug-in hybrid powertrain may have proven a wiser choice at this price point.
Off-road capabilities remain impressive, thanks to a four-wheel drive system, a Torsen limited-slip differential, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select modes, and hydraulic suspension that adjusts ride height. However, it's unlikely that either the first or second owner will venture off-road—but if you must, opt for the Overtrail variant with 18-inch knobby tyres.
Features and Functionality
Luggage space behind the third row amounts to around 200 litres, but unfolding both the second and third rows expands it to approximately 1,800 litres. Inside, a large central cool box up front is easily accessible from the left, right, and rear, and the boot hosts a three-point plug suitable for a laptop or grill.
The 25-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivers outstanding audio quality. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay, enabling the use of preferred navigation and music apps. However, the voice assistant is less responsive, and the wireless charging speed is average. Rear passengers are treated to dual 11.4-inch screens, an HDMI port for game consoles, and two USB-C ports. The four-zone climate control is potent, while features like ventilated, heated, and five-mode massaging front seats underscore the luxury vibe.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 offers advanced driver assistance technology, but standout features include digital rear-view mirrors for unobstructed visibility and a 360-degree monitor with a clever underbody view.
In Summary
The Lexus brand's purpose was to charm luxury buyers by offering true value through exceptional build quality, executive styling, and pampering features at a reasonable price. The 2025 Lexus LX 700h attempts to follow this blueprint. However, the cluttered centre console detracts from usability, the hybrid system offers little real-world advantage, and the price tag is steep. It's a good luxury SUV on its own, but is it worth twice the price of a Land Cruiser, or better than its ICE-powered LX 600 sibling? It's a question worth pondering. Still, Lexus' renowned reliability and robust resale value make it a wiser long-term ownership decision than many rivals.
Specifications
- Body type: Seven-seater; Five-door premium full-size SUV
- Engine: Front-engine; Twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 + e-motor; Four-wheel drive
- Transmission: Ten-speed automatic
- Peak output: 457 PS (system total); 409 PS @ 5,200 rpm (ICE) + 54 PS (e-motor) - 790 Nm (system total); 650 Nm @ 2,000 - 3,600 rpm + 290 Nm (e-motor)
- 0 to 100 kmph: Under 7.5 seconds (estimated)
- Top speed: 210 kmph (estimated, limited by drag)
- Price: Starting at Dh590,000
- Editor's rating: 7.5/10
- GOOD: Imposing presence; build quality; overall comfort and features; renowned reliability and strong resale value
- BAD: Overly busy centre console; not quicker or more economical; pricey
- The automotive industry witnessed the launch of the hybrid variant, the LX 700h, in the Lexus LX and Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 series, raising questions about its worth given its steep starting price of Dh590,000, twice as much as an LC300.
- In the realm of technology, the LX 700h boasts a unique dual-screen setup for navigation and media, complemented by another for drive modes and climate control, a feature uncommon in the automotive industry.
- Financially, the hybrid system in the LX 700h offers little real-world advantage, leading to contemplation about the cost-effectiveness, particularly when compared to its ICE-powered sibling.
- In terms of transportation, the LX 700h's off-road capabilities remain impressive, making it a suitable choice for those who require vehicle functionality beyond city driving.
