Lexus confirms LX Overtrail for Australia

LEXUS Australia has confirmed the arrival of its LX Overtrail in Australian showrooms within the first half of this year.

The variant promises even greater off-road capacity than the derivative model, joining the LandCruiser Prado-based GX Overtrail in the Lexus line-up.

The luxury Japanese importer says the Overtrail duo reinforce its commitment offering customers an expanded range of vehicles tailored to their diverse needs.

Visually, the LX Overtrail is defined by black highlights for the spindle grille, front and rear bumpers, wheelarch mouldings, wing mirrors, door handles, window frames, and roof rails.

The Lexus LX Overtrail brings not only more rugged visuals, but “bespoke mechanical components and enhancements that improve ground-covering ability and traction in the most difficult terrain”.

Lexus says the inclusion of front-, centre-, and rear locking differentials add to the low-speed tractability of the LX Overtrail, the trio of lockers joining an “already impressive suite of off-road traction aids”, including Multi-Terrain Select, Downhill Assist Control, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Monitor, and Active Height Control.

The all-terrain LX Overtrail will further benefit from unique 18-inch alloy wheels shod with Toyo Open Country A/T tyres in 265/70 sizing.

Engine options include a twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6 diesel producing 227kW and 700Nm (as per current LX 550d) or a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol making 305kW and 650Nm (as per current LX 600).

A 10-speed automatic transmission is offered exclusively with both options.

A petrol-electric hybrid option is also understood to be under evaluation for the Australian market. The LX 700h, as it will be known, offers a parallel hybrid system integrating a motor/generator with a clutch between the twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol and 10-speed automatic transmission.

Lexus says this configuration maintains key features like full-time 4WD and a low-range transfer case, while delivering instantaneous torque, and “linear and powerful acceleration”.

A hybrid control system modulates the transition between engine-only and motor-only modes, optimising performance based on driving conditions. In this way, the electric motor can be used independent of the ICE for low-range driving.

The LX 700h is also fitted with a waterproof AC invertor located under the centre console for external power supply of up to 1500W or 2400W, depending on the region.

Lexus Australia says its decision to import the LX 700h, as well as pricing and full specifications on the incoming LX Overtrail, will be announced soon.

“Since its introduction to the Lexus Australia range in 1998, the LX has enabled customers to navigate Australia’s tough terrains with unwavering reliability and unparalleled comfort,” said Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas.

“The LX combines luxurious appointments and thoughtful comfort features with the rugged performance of a full-size luxury SUV, delivering outstanding off-road, towing and hauling capability.”