By Staff Reporter

Lexus South Africa has added a new grade to its flagship SUV range with the introduction of the LX 700h Urban. The new model brings a more accessible hybrid option to the local LX line-up, expanding the brand’s electrified offerings while maintaining the craftsmanship and capability associated with Lexus’ top-tier SUV.

The LX range is built around the idea of refined and effortless driving across varied road conditions. The introduction of the LX 700h Urban follows strong customer interest in the hybrid powertrain that debuted earlier in the refreshed LX line-up.

Expanded hybrid and diesel range

The LX 700h Urban joins the existing models that include the LX 500d F Sport, LX 500d Overtrail, LX 700h F Sport and LX 700h Overtrail. It replaces the discontinued VIP grade and becomes the seven-seater hybrid option within the updated line-up.

The LX 700h models are powered by a 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo hybrid system. The petrol engine produces 305 kW and 650 Nm, while the electric motor adds 36 kW and 250 Nm for a combined output of 341 kW. Lexus has made no mechanical changes to the hybrid setup for the Urban model. Diesel options for the F Sport and Overtrail grades remain available at 225 kW. All models use a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Design and model differences

While the LX 700h Urban shares the core design language of the LX portfolio, it receives premium exterior and interior finishes tailored for daily urban use. The Urban grade features a centre differential lock, while the Overtrail grade is fitted with front, centre and rear differential locks for enhanced off-road capability.

The Urban rides on 22-inch alloy wheels with 265/50 R22 tyres. In comparison, the Overtrail uses 18-inch wheels designed for off-road use. Exterior detailing also differs, with the Urban using chrome and stainless-steel finishes and colour-coded mirrors, while the Overtrail features black mirror caps and dark exterior accents.

Inside, the Urban receives trim elements aligned with Lexus’ luxury focus, including Shimamoku wood, while the Overtrail uses Black Ash interior accents.

Colour options

The LX 700h Urban will be available in White Quartz, Sonic Titanium and Manganese Luster as standard colours. Terrane Khaki and Graphite Black will be available through customer order.

Capability and durability

The LX 700h Urban maintains the towing capability expected from Lexus’ flagship SUV range, offering a braked towing capacity of 3500 kg and an unbraked capacity of 750 kg.

Pricing and warranty

• LX 500d F Sport – R2 608 700
• LX 500d Overtrail – R2 628 900
• LX 700h F Sport – R2 719 800
• LX 700h Urban – R2 746 300
• LX 700h Overtrail – R2 757 700

All Lexus LX models are sold with a 7-year/100 000 km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. Service intervals are every 10 000 km or once a year. LX 700h models also receive an 8-year/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.