Some vehicles do more than turn heads – they command respect. They move with the quiet authority of a monarch, a symbol of prestige and excellence. The Lexus LX has long been one such vehicle, a name synonymous with luxury, power and adventure. Now, Lexus South Africa (Lexus SA) has unveiled its latest flagship, the Lexus LX 700h, a masterpiece of engineering and craftsmanship that aims to set a bold new standard for premium SUVs.
To mark this momentous occasion, Lexus SA curated an exclusive lunch at Akido, a refined Japanese restaurant in Sandton, Johannesburg, where precision, artistry and attention to detail mirror the very essence of the brand. Over an exquisite dining experience, we were introduced to the newest expression of Lexus innovation, a fusion of hybrid power and uncompromising luxury.
A New Chapter for an Icon
For 36 years now, Lexus has been redefining automotive luxury, seamlessly blending the evolution of technology with handcrafted precision. The LX range has always been the brand’s crown jewel, a favourite among executives, statesmen and discerning adventurers. The latest iteration – the Lexus LX 700h – ushers in a new era, where power meets sustainability.
Bongani Mhlophe, Lexus SA’s Product Planning Manager, noted that while South Africa remains a key market, Nigeria has emerged as a dominant player for this commanding SUV. The new LX arrives in three distinctive grades – Overtrail, F Sport, and VIP – each designed for a different type of luxury seeker.
Under the hood, the 3.5-litre V6 hybrid petrol engine generates a commanding 341 kW of power and 650 Nm of torque, making this the most powerful LX ever built. For those who prefer diesel power, the LX 500d in F SPORT and Overtrail variants deliver 225kW, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for seamless performance across cityscapes and rugged landscapes alike.
Revolutionary Power Meets Responsible Luxury
The LX 700h is not just about power – it is a statement of intent. As the world shifts toward sustainable mobility, Lexus remains committed to innovating without compromise. The new parallel hybrid system retains the legendary Lexus refinement and off-road prowess, while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and enhancing efficiency.
Lexus has also aligned itself with its parent company’s (Toyota) multi-pathway strategy, offering a range of electrified solutions that extend beyond traditional hybrids to include Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV), Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines, and advanced Cetane Number Fuels. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Lexus stays ahead of the curve, catering to both eco-conscious drivers and luxury enthusiasts alike.
Where Safety Meets Serenity
Luxury is more than what you see – it’s also about peace of mind. The Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) is the most advanced iteration yet, offering intelligent driver-assist technologies designed to protect both occupants and pedestrians. Whether cruising down a boulevard or navigating the untamed wilderness, the LX 700h ensures that every journey is as secure as it is exhilarating.
The Spirit of Overlanding: Lexus Overtrail
For those whose definition of luxury includes the great outdoors, Lexus has introduced the Overtrail series, an all-new overlanding-inspired sub-brand catering to adventure seekers. The Overtrail edition of the LX 700h arrives with bespoke equipment, rugged styling elements, and exclusive colour palettes designed to embrace the wild without sacrificing Lexus refinement.
The Lexus Overtrail Project underscores the brand’s commitment to crafting vehicles that cater to diverse lifestyles. Whether conquering uncharted terrain or commanding the streets of Sandton, the LX 700h Overtrail represents the ultimate blend of rugged capability and uncompromising elegance.
Challenging the Throne
The new Lexus LX 700h doesn’t merely step into the ring – it challenges the very notion of what a flagship SUV should be. Set to take on icons like the Range Rover, BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Audi Q7, it brings an unrivalled fusion of power, luxury and sustainability.
Will it redefine the segment? We will soon find out when we take it for an exclusive test drive in April. Stay tuned!
Pricing & After-Sales Package
For those looking to claim a seat on the throne, here’s what the new Lexus LX range will cost in South Africa:
- 500 Diesel F Sport – R2 557 500
- 500 Diesel Overtrail – R2 577 400
- 700H F Sport – R2 666 500
- 700H Overtrail – R2 703 600
- 700H VIP – R3 092 100
Each LX model comes with a 7-year/100 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan, with service intervals every 10 000km or once a year. Additionally, 700h hybrid models benefit from an 8-year/195 000km hybrid battery warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind.
Final Word: A Vision of Luxury Reimagined
The Lexus LX 700h is a bold stride into the future where luxury meets responsibility, and where performance is redefined by innovation. Whether you seek sophistication, adventure, or eco-conscious power, this latest Lexus masterpiece seems ready to set new benchmarks in the world of luxury SUVs.
