Texas-Sized Luxury, Trail-Ready Power: 2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail

Back in 2019, when I reviewed the Lexus LX 570, I didn’t hold back: it was a big SUV, but also a big waste. Sure, it had the right bones and real Lexus luxury, but the tech was outdated and the thirsty V8 punished you at the pump. Fast-forward to 2025, and Lexus has made a move that changes the LX’s story entirely: a new hybrid powertrain, a properly modernized interior, and a rugged new trim called Overtrail.

This tester — a three-row LX 700h Overtrail in Earth with the optional Mark Levinson audio — stickered at $118,510. That’s no small number. But this SUV isn’t about small anything. It’s Texas-sized luxury paired with trail-ready power.

The Overtrail Edge

Lexus introduced the Overtrail name as part of its “Overtrail Project,” meant to celebrate outdoor adventure while keeping refinement intact. The LX 700h is the only trim to get it, and it’s loaded with the hardware to match the badge: front and rear locking differentials, 33-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a front skid plate, and a 2,400-watt waterproof AC inverter. On top of that, you get a look that’s more rugged than blingy, with matte gray grille, black overfenders, dark chrome trim, and functional roof rails.

Exterior: Boxy, Bold, and Earthy

The LX has always been a statement piece, but the Overtrail tweaks shift the tone from luxury-only to luxury-with-purpose. The Earth paint has a military sand-like vibe, fitting the Overtrail’s outdoors persona perfectly. The big spindle grille is still here, and while the design may feel a little dated, the matte gray treatment helps soften the flash and adds toughness.

Those all-terrain tires instantly change the look of this SUV — they give it real presence, a bit of Texas swagger, and make it clear that this isn’t just another mall-parking-lot luxury piece. The stance is boxy, but compared to the more squared-off GX, the LX still feels more refined and flagship-worthy.

Rear Hatch and Cargo: The Shelf Story

Out back, a power liftgate with a kick sensor opens to reveal the LX’s most polarizing feature: cargo space. With the third row up, room is minimal — think grocery bags, maybe a small suitcase. With the seats folded flat, space improves, but here’s the catch: the load floor is high due to hybrid battery packaging.

Lexus added a shelf system to level the folded third row with the floor, and it’s handy for dividing gear. You can store smaller items beneath and stack larger items above. But it also means lifting heavy items at least six inches higher than you would in many rivals, and on an already tall SUV, that’s no small thing. If hauling is your priority, you’ll find more cubic feet and easier loading in something like a Tahoe or Escalade.

The Hybrid Heart

The 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid paired with a 10-speed automatic delivers 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. That torque figure dwarfs the old V8 and transforms how this SUV moves. Whether merging onto a highway or passing slower traffic, the LX feels powerful and composed.

The hybrid system has off-road smarts too — for the first time in a Lexus, the electric motor can provide power in low range. That means more precise throttle control when crawling over rocks or trudging through snow. And because Lexus tucked the hybrid battery in a waterproof tray, the LX is rated to ford 27.5 inches of water. That’s serious capability baked into a Lexus flagship.

Inside: Flagship Comfort Meets Overtrail Grit

Step inside and the LX finally feels like a true Lexus flagship. Gone are the forests of buttons and outdated Enform system from 2019. In their place: a dual-screen setup. A 12.3-inch upper touchscreen handles infotainment and navigation, while a 7-inch lower screen runs climate and off-road controls.

Now, I’ll be honest: it reminds me of Infiniti’s old two-screen system — a setup I used to complain about a lot. But Lexus did this one better. Both screens are touch-capable, clean, and logical. It’s not my favorite look, but it works.

The tech experience is rounded out with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that connect seamlessly, two USB-C ports up front, and a wireless phone charger that just works — drop your phone in, it doesn’t slide, and it charges reliably. It’s such a small thing, but it makes a big difference in day-to-day use.

My tester’s cabin includes semi-aniline leather seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions up front, heated and ventilated outboard second-row seats, and rear manual sunshades. Lexus even kept the center console cool box, a classic LX party trick. And the optional Mark Levinson 25-speaker system is one of the best in the segment — crystal clear and immersive.

The Drive

On the road, the LX 700h Overtrail is extremely comfortable. The Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension work together to smooth out bumps and expansion joints, and the SUV feels planted and calm. Even with the chunky A/T tires, the cabin remains impressively quiet.

Steering is light at low speeds, making parking manageable, and firms up nicely on the highway for stable cruising. The hybrid torque makes this SUV feel lighter than it should, with effortless acceleration when you need it. It’s not a vehicle you push through corners, but it never feels clumsy or out of sorts.

Fuel Economy Reality Check

On paper, the hybrid LX is rated at 20 mpg combined. But here’s the reality from my tester: the display showed an average of 14.4 mpg. I tried to reset it, but the system wouldn’t clear, so it’s possible the low number comes from extended idling before I picked it up. Still, it’s concerning to see mid-teens in something that’s supposed to be Lexus’ more efficient flagship. Is the hybrid working overtime just to push around all this weight? Maybe. It’s something prospective buyers should note.

Off-Road Credibility

The Overtrail isn’t just about looks. Between its front and rear lockers, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control with Turn Assist, and those 33-inch A/T tires, it has the chops to back up the name. The hybrid’s ability to add motor assist in low range is unique in this class, and with the waterproof battery setup, the LX 700h has the specs to handle deep water crossings and serious terrain.

I didn’t take it rock crawling during my week, but the systems engage smoothly, the cameras give a clear view around the truck, and it always feels composed. For buyers with ranch land or a lease, or just those who want confidence in their luxury SUV, the LX 700h Overtrail delivers.

Luxury Touches

What I appreciate most about Lexus is how it mixes serious hardware with small conveniences. This SUV has a 360-degree camera system that makes parking simple, even in tight urban spaces. When you lock it, the side mirrors fold in automatically, a great cue that the vehicle’s secure and a nice protection against parking lot scrapes. They’re little touches, but at $118K, you notice when brands skip them.

Price and Competition

This one’s pricey: base LX 700h Overtrail starts at $114,000, and with premium paint, Mark Levinson audio, and destination, mine landed at $118,510. That puts it nose-to-nose with the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes GLS, and Range Rover, as well as Toyota’s returning Land Cruiser.

The American luxury SUVs beat the Lexus on cargo and sometimes on flash, but they don’t have factory lockers or hybrid low-range motor assist. Range Rover competes most closely, but you’ll pay even more to match this capability. The Land Cruiser is cheaper and honest, but it doesn’t bring this level of Lexus luxury or refinement.

Final Thoughts

So, is it Overtrail or Overkill? For me, Lexus has finally delivered the LX that makes sense. The comfort, technology, torque, and off-road hardware put it in a class of its own. Yes, the cargo compromises are real, the styling is divisive, and the price is steep. And yes, that fuel economy readout has me raising an eyebrow. But for buyers who want a flagship SUV that’s every bit as trail-capable as it is luxurious, the LX 700h Overtrail is the most convincing LX yet.

Watch the Video

For a closer look at how the LX 700h Overtrail drives, the suspension raising and lowering, and the off-road tech in action, check out our full video review: “Overtrail or Overkill? Lexus’ $118K LX 700h Tested” on the TXGarage YouTube channel.