2025 Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Launches As Cadillac Escalade Rival

The 2025 Lexus LX gets a major update that makes it more competitive against the Cadillac Escalade in the full-size luxury SUV class. This model year continues the same “J310” generation that began for the 2022 model year, but with the addition of a hybrid V6 powertrain and a new Overtrail grade that emphasizes off-road capability.

The powertrain in the new LX 700h is the hybrid version of Toyota’s V35A-FTS V6, rated at 457 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. It’s a twin-turbo V6 like the one in the standard LX 600, but the hybrid version produces 11 percent more horsepower and 21 percent more torque while boasting the same tow rating (up to 8,000 pounds) and achieving 5 percent better fuel economy at 20 mpg combined.

This is essentially the same mill as the i-FORCE MAX Hybrid powertrain in the Toyota Sequoia and the hybrid version of the Toyota Tundra. Like the LX 600, the 2025 Lexus LX 700h is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive.

Compared to the 6.2L L87 V8 that powers all but the V-Series model in the 2025 Cadillac Escalade lineup, the Lexus LX 700h has a bit more power, much more torque, and significantly better fuel economy. Of course, the Escalade-V, powered by the 6.2L LT4 V8, has a performance advantage over the hybrid Lexus, but at a higher cost at the dealer and at the fuel pump. Of note, the 3.0L LM2 I6 Duramax turbodiesel that was just discontinued in the fifth-generation Escalade got better fuel economy (up to 23 mpg combined) than this new hybrid rival.

The Overtrail moniker debuted in the Lexus lineup with the 2024 Lexus GX, and now the bigger 2025 Lexus LX has its own off-road trim. Available with two- or three-row seating, the LX Overtrail boasts off-road upgrades like locking front and rear differentials, a 2,400W AC inverter, 19-inch wheels with 33-inch all-terrain tires, and a front skid plate. It’s available exclusively with the LX 700h hybrid powertrain; there’s no LX 600 Overtrail. This rugged luxury SUV rivals the GMC Yukon AT4 Ultimate more than anything in the Cadillac Escalade lineup.

Another notable update to the 2025 Lexus LX lineup is the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which is now standard across the board, upgraded from the previous 2.5 system.

We expect pricing for the 2025 Lexus LX to increase slightly from the 2024 model’s starting price of $93,915, and the hybrid model could have a starting price flirting with $100k.