The updated Lexus LX range has officially launched in South Africa, complete with a new LX 700h hybrid powertrain and a fresh “Overtrail” grade. Here’s local pricing…
The Lexus LX range has been updated in South Africa, gaining hybrid power thanks to a new LX 700h powertrain and a revised look courtesy of a fresh “Overtrail” grade (as applied to the incoming Lexus GX).
While the local portfolio – which is closely related to the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 – again comprises 5 derivatives, the new LX 700h interestingly replaces the purely petrol-powered LX 600. The diesel-driven LX 500d (225 kW and 700 Nm), however, carries over as the 4×4 range’s entry point.
As a reminder, the outgoing LX 600’s twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 petrol motor generated maximum outputs of 305 kW and 650 Nm. In contrast, the box-fresh hybrid derivative predictably offers more oomph.
Indeed, its newly developed “1MT-HEV” powertrain – which integrates a motor generator with a clutch positioned between the twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 petrol unit and the 10-speed automatic transmission – delivers peak system power of 341 kW. While the petrol engine alone generates 650 Nm, total system torque comes in at 790 Nm.
Claimed fuel consumption for this new LX 700h powertrain comes in at 10.0 L/100 km. The hybrid battery is located in the rear floor within a “waterproof tray” that is divided into upper and lower sections. This design, says the automaker, “effectively prevents water ingress during deep water crossings, ensuring a fording capability of 700 mm”.
So, what about local pricing (hat-tip to the ever-helpful folks over at duoporta.com for the timely heads-up)? Well, the LX 500d F Sport again kicks off the range, though now starts at R2 557 500 (some R40 000 more than before). Next comes at the LX 500d Overtrail at R2 577 400, representing a R58 400 increase over the outgoing “Urban” derivative (a grade that falls away).
The new LX 700h powertrain, meanwhile, is available in 3 forms. The LX 700h F Sport is priced at R2 666 500, while the LX 700h Overtrail comes in at R2 703 600. Finally, the LX 700h VIP tops the line-up at R3 092 100, becoming Mzansi’s most expensive Lexus SUV yet. For the record, the outgoing LX 600 variants ran from R2 553 600 to R2 997 400.
Interestingly, the F Sport derivatives come standard with 5 seats, while the Overtrail variants feature the full complement of 7 seats. Finally, the flagship VIP iteration again boasts a 4-seat cabin layout complete with independent, electrically adjustable 2nd-row pews offering plenty of legroom.
The fresh Overtrail grade is set apart by a dark grille and matte-grey alloy wheels (wrapped in chunkier, 265/70 R18 tyres), while various other exterior components – from the fog-lamp surrounds, roof rails, wheel-arch mouldings, door handles, side-mirror caps and rear-bumper garnish – likewise feature darkened tones.
A new “Moon Desert” paint colour is also exclusive to the Overtrail trim level. In addition, Overtrail derivatives ship standard with front- and rear differential locks, in additional to the centre diff lock. It also features an improved approach angle of 23 degrees (compared with the F Sport’s 21 degrees).
Other updates to the broader LX line-up include various revised driver-assistance systems, a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an upgraded wireless smartphone charging pad and an “Advanced Park” system (complete with remote function) exclusive to the hybrid.
How much does the updated Lexus LX cost in SA?
Lexus LX 500d F Sport – R2 557 500
Lexus LX 500d Overtrail – R2 577 400
Lexus LX 700h F Sport – R2 666 500
Lexus LX 700h Overtrail – R2 703 600
Lexus LX 700h VIP – R3 092 100
The prices above include a vehicle warranty and maintenance plan each spanning 7 years or 105 000 km, along with an 8-year/195 000 km battery-specific warranty.
