MAIN PRODUCT FEATURES OF THE NEW LX
A newly developed hybrid system that preserves “reliability,” “durability” and “off-road performance”
Newly designed parallel hybrid system
To preserve the LX’s legendary reliability, durability, and off-road performance during the transition to electrification, we have adopted a parallel hybrid system that integrates a motor generator (MG) with a clutch positioned between the 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This configuration maintains key features like full-time 4WD, a Lo-range transfer case, and a torque converter-equipped automatic transmission, ensuring that the combined high output and torque from both the engine and motor are effectively transmitted to the road. The hybrid control system intelligently manages the transition between engine-only and motor-only modes, optimizing performance based on driving conditions.
Additionally, this is the first Lexus system to feature both an alternator and a starter as standard components, a departure from previous Lexus parallel hybrid models. In the event of a hybrid system failure, the starter enables independent engine ignition, while the alternator powers the 12V auxiliary battery, allowing the vehicle to continue driving using only the engine. Even in this emergency driving mode, essential features such as the transfer case’s Lo-range, ride height adjustment using Active Height Control (AHC*1), and Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) remain fully operational, ensuring continued off-road capability.
Water fording capability equivalent to that of traditional engine vehicles
The vehicle features a waterproof structure that encases the hybrid main battery, located in the rear floor, within a waterproof tray divided into upper and lower sections. This design effectively prevents water ingress during deep water crossings, ensuring a fording capability of 700 mm, comparable to that of conventional engine vehicles. In the unlikely event that water does enter the tray, a water sensor positioned inside will detect it and alert the driver through a meter display.
Performance that harnesses motor torque
The vehicle combines the responsive torque characteristics of the motor with a high-displacement twin-turbo engine, resulting in linear acceleration and responsive starts from low throttle operation at low speeds. At higher speeds or during full throttle, it delivers robust acceleration that leverages high torque, embodying the Lexus pursuit of “engaging driving dialogue with the car.”
In off-road conditions, the vehicle expands its capabilities beyond Hi transfer case range by adding motor-driven power to the Lo-range for the first time in a Lexus. This feature, in conjunction with the various modes of Multi-Terrain Select, enables motor-only driving in scenarios requiring precise throttle control, such as rocky paths, dirt roads, and deep snow, achieving exceptional off-road performance while ensuring ease of handling.
External power supply function
The vehicle is equipped with a waterproof AC inverter positioned under the center console, allowing for an external power supply of up to 1,500 W or 2,400 W, depending on the region. To enhance user convenience, power outlets have been installed at the rear of the center console and on the deck. This feature can be used for a range of activities or as an emergency power source in case of disasters.
GA-F Platform Upgrades
To accommodate the added weight and extended length of the powertrain resulting from the addition of the motor generator (MG), an exclusive cross member (Cross member No. 3) has been added. This design optimizes the cross-section and plate thickness, achieving a low profile while ensuring a minimum ground clearance comparable to that of the engine models. Additionally, the material used for the rear engine mount has been upgraded to a more durable option to support the increased powertrain weight.
Furthermore, a new spare tire cross has been designed to reposition the spare tire in order to facilitate the installation of the hybrid main battery in the rear floor. This adjustment optimizes the mounting angle, lowering the installation position while maintaining the departure angle, thereby balancing off-road capability with serviceability.
The 12V auxiliary battery has been relocated from the engine compartment to the side of the rear deck. A dedicated metal tray and detachable battery brace have been added to enhance ease of replacement while improving body rigidity around the rear quarter area.
