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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 27194, member: 2262"] Lexus removed the 3.5 V6 twin-turbo gas engine from the LX SUV lineup as part of its carbon-neutral goals. Instead, it added the LX 700h with brand-new hybrid technology. The company also launched the Overtrail version, designed for outdoor enthusiasts who want adventure features, special designs, and unique color choices. South Africans love diesel engines, which explains why Lexus kept the diesel option available with 225kW and 700Nm power. Buyers can pick from five versions: the LX 500d Urban F-sport with five seats, the five-seat LX 500d Overtrail, the five-seat 700h F Sport, the seven-seat 700h Overtrail, and the four-seat 700h VIP. Prices start at R2,557,500 for the Diesel F Sport and reach R3,092,100 for the fancy 700h VIP. Lexus customers have embraced hybrid vehicles dramatically - from just 15% buying them in 2019 to 55% today. The new system places a motor generator with a clutch between the 3.5L V6 twin-turbo gas engine and a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combo delivers massive power: 341kW total system power, 650Nm from the engine alone, and a combined torque of 790Nm. Fuel economy improves by 1.3l/100km compared to earlier models. Smart hybrid controls manage to switch between pure electric mode and engine-only driving based on conditions. This marks the first Lexus system to include both alternator and starter as standard parts. If the hybrid system fails, the starter can still fire up the engine independently, with the alternator powering the 12V battery, letting you continue driving on engine power. Off-road features, including low-range transfer case, height adjustment, and traction control, keep working during system failure. Engineers upgraded the GA-F platform with special cross members to handle the extra weight from the motor generator. Despite these changes, they maintained proper ground clearance. The team relocated the 12V battery and redesigned the spare tire mount to maintain off-road capability. The vehicle handles water crossings up to 700mm deep, and Lexus protects the main hybrid battery inside a sealed tray. The Overtrail stands out with its black gloss spindle grille and matte grey 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Inside, it features a "monolith" color theme, including ash burl black decorations. Front and rear differential locks come standard, and only this model offers exclusive "Moon Desert" paint. It's also the only LX available with seven seats. Interior improvements across all models include a customizable 12.3-inch digital dashboard. VIP models feature air bladder-based refresh seats, though F-Sport and Overtrail versions still offer standard massage seats. Wireless phone charging works faster than before, and VIP models add rear charging capability. Safety gets an upgrade from Lexus Safety Sense +2.5 to version +3. Every Lexus LX includes a seven-year/100,000km warranty and maintenance plan. Hybrid models receive an additional eight-year/195,000km battery warranty. March 2025 pricing runs from R2,557,500 for the 500 Diesel F Sport to R3,092,100 for the premium 700h VIP model. [/QUOTE]

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