An Elevated Experience with Lexus in Napa Valley
Luxury is not just about fine materials and craftsmanship—it's an experience, a mindset, and a philosophy. Few brands understand this better than Lexus. I recently spent two days and two nights at the Bardessono Hotel in Napa Valley. This eco-luxury resort perfectly embodies Lexus' commitment to omotenashi, the Japanese principle of hospitality. My visit was part of a Lexus-organized press drive for the 2025 Lexus LX 700h, where national and international automotive journalists and social media influencers got behind the wheel of the latest iteration of Lexus' flagship SUV.
Between driving the F Sport, Overtrail, and Ultra Luxury models, I indulged in the carefully curated experience Lexus had planned—one that included a wine tasting at Burgess Cellars after a long day of road and off-road testing in The Founder's Room, showcasing a library of historic Burgess vintages. Tasting experiences start at $120 per person. I'll admit, the ride back to the resort in the Ultra Luxury trim after the tasting, with its reclining rear seats and immersive infotainment, felt like the ideal way to unwind. If I were in a tax bracket where a full-time driver made sense, the Ultra Luxury would be the model I'd want to be chauffeured in.
But this event wasn't just about relaxation—it was about understanding Lexus' latest evolution of the LX, its first-ever hybrid powertrain, and how this $106,000+ luxury SUV fits into the ultra-competitive full-size SUV segment.
The 2025 Lexus LX 700h: What's New?
The 2025 LX 700h introduces Lexus' first hybrid powertrain for its flagship SUV. It features a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with an electrified system producing 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This combination delivers a smooth and immediate power delivery, making it ideal for both on-road cruising and off-road adventures.
Key mechanical highlights include:
• Nickel-metal hydride battery positioned beneath the rear floor.
• 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission for seamless power transitions.
• Full-time 4WD with an electronically controlled limited-slip center differential.
• EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined, an improvement over its non-hybrid counterpart.
One of the standout features of the Overtrail trim is the addition of front and rear locking differentials, an asset for off-road enthusiasts who demand more control over rugged terrain. However, this level of off-road hardware may be excessive for the average urban luxury buyer. Lexus expects about 25% of LX buyers in the U.S. to opt for the Overtrail trim, suggesting there is an appetite for adventure within the LX customer base.
Interior Excellence: The Ultra Luxury Experience
If true luxury is what you seek, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury is the clear winner. Lexus has crafted a first-class rear-seat experience featuring reclining seats with an ottoman, individual climate controls, massaging functions, and dual screens for rear passengers (which allow phone mirroring via HDMI). The attention to detail in this trim is unmatched, making it ideal for those who prefer to be driven rather than to drive.
- The Ultra Luxury trim is meticulously designed for those who prefer to be driven. It offers a first-class experience in the rear cabin. Every detail has been carefully curated to provide unparalleled comfort, technology, and craftsmanship.
• Seating Capacity: Four-Passenger Ultra Luxury Configuration
• Upholstery & Materials:
- Semi-Aniline Leather in Exclusive Color Options
- Open-Pore Wood and Aluminum Trim Accents
- Quilted Leather Door Panels with Contrast Stitching
• Rear Executive Seating:
- Two individually power-adjustable captain’s chairs with heated, ventilated, and massaging functions
- Reclining functionality with power-adjustable footrests for true relaxation
- Rear-seat ottoman with extended leg support
- Soft-close doors for a seamless entry and exit experience
• Rear Passenger Controls & Entertainment:
- Dual 11.4-inch rear-seat entertainment screens with HDMI and wireless mirroring
- 7-inch touchscreen control panel in the center armrest for adjusting seat positions, climate, and audio
- Mark Levinson® 25-speaker Reference Surround Sound System for immersive audio
- Rear privacy screens and power sunshades for an undisturbed environment
- Rear wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports for device connectivity
• Climate & Comfort:
- Four-zone automatic climate control with rear VIP adjustments
- Exclusive cabin fragrance system with custom Lexus scent selections
- Acoustic glass and additional sound insulation for whisper-quiet travel
• Exclusive Ultra Luxury Features:
- Cool box for refreshments
- Rear vanity mirrors with LED illumination
- Ambient lighting with customizable color options
- Premium floor mats and exclusive badging
However, there are trade-offs. The Ultra Luxury trim does not offer a third row, and for those who need maximum seating capacity, that could be a deal breaker. The third row in other trims, while present, is still tight for adult passengers—more of an occasional-use feature than a true selling point.
The standard console cooler on all trim levels is a unique addition. Still, in my opinion, it feels like a wasted space in the center console. Perhaps Lexus should have left this as an optional feature, allowing for a larger storage compartment instead.
Driving Impressions: Capability Meets Refinement
I put the LX 700h Overtrail through the paces on both paved and off-road routes. Lexus' engineering team has excellently maintained the brand's signature quiet cabin across all models, even with the Overtrail's off-road wheel and tire package. Our drive in the Overtrail trim took us through a carefully designed off-road course by the Lexus team, simulating extreme terrain conditions that tested the vehicle's capabilities. We began by traversing muddy hills, where the LX 700h's all-terrain tires and full-time 4WD system provided ample traction. As we ascended the off-road track, we engaged the electronically controlled center differential lock to distribute torque evenly between the front and rear axles.
The most demanding section featured a series of boulders, tree trunks, and loose, slippery rocks—conditions that most LX owners will rarely encounter in everyday driving. The Overtrail's hill descent control proved invaluable as we maneuvered steep declines with minimal brake input, allowing the SUV to maintain composure while navigating treacherous paths. Even on uneven surfaces, the combination of adaptive height control and Multi-Terrain Select modes ensured confidence and stability. This experience highlighted the true off-road potential of the Overtrail trim, reinforcing its position as the most adventure-ready Lexus LX yet.
The F Sport Handling model strikes the best balance between luxury and dynamic driving with its performance dampers, Torsen rear differential, and sport-tuned suspension. If I were choosing an LX for everyday use, this would likely be my pick—its 20 MPG rating across the lineup makes it relatively efficient, while its refined ride and aggressive styling give it an edge over competitors.
For those prioritizing serious off-road ability, the Overtrail is more than capable. Still, triple-locking differentials might be overkill for the average American buyer.
Lexus' Thought Process: Insights from Chief Engineer Takami Yokoo
During the event, I interviewed Lexus Chief Engineer Takami Yokoo-san, who provided valuable insight into the challenges and philosophy behind electrifying the LX.
"The LX has always represented ultimate reliability, durability, and off-road performance. Adding hybrid technology was not as simple as just putting a battery in it—we had to ensure that those core values remained intact. Our goal was to create a hybrid system that enhances the LX experience, not compromises it."
Yokoo-san also emphasized Lexus' omotenashi philosophy, ensuring every design decision—down to cargo space and seating adjustments—was made with user comfort in mind.
"Omotenashi is not about being bold and brazen. It's about the little details. Even small changes, like adjusting the third-row seating mechanism, reflect our commitment to making every interaction with the LX as seamless as possible."
When asked about why Lexus pushed the Overtrail model, given that the LX is widely used in urban environments, he responded:
"We see an evolving customer base—one that enjoys luxury but also craves adventure. The Overtrail expands our reach, allowing the LX to serve both urban luxury buyers and off-road enthusiasts."
How It Stacks Up: Competitor Comparison
The full-size luxury SUV market is highly competitive, with contenders from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Infiniti, and Genesis. Here's how the LX 700h measures up:
Key Lexus Advantages:
• Resale Value: Lexus LX models hold their value significantly better than most competitors.
• Reliability: Lexus’ reputation for long-term durability remains unmatched.
• Hybrid Efficiency: At 20 MPG combined, it’s more efficient than most V8-powered competitors.
Final Thoughts: Is the Lexus LX 700h Worth It?
With an entry price of $106,850, the 2025 Lexus LX 700h is not for the budget-conscious. However, if history is any indicator, this SUV will maintain its value better than most competitors. Fit and finish remain on par with the best in the industry, and Lexus has successfully integrated hybrid technology without compromising its legendary durability and refinement.
The LX remains one of the safest bets in the full-size luxury SUV space for the buyer who is not concerned with the entry price. Whether you're drawn to the urban sophistication of the F Sport, the rugged appeal of the Overtrail, or the chauffeur-ready comfort of the Ultra Luxury, there's an LX for every high-net-worth buyer.
If you're in the market for an SUV that blends reliability, technology, and luxury, Lexus just made your decision a little harder—but in the best way possible.
2025 Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury: Electrified Prestige in Full-Size Form
Basic Vehicle Information
• Year, Make, Model, Trim: 2025 Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury
• Class/Segment: Full-Size Luxury SUV
• MSRP: Starting at $106,850 | Ultra Luxury Trim: $141,350
Powertrain & Performance
• Engine Type & Displacement: 3.4L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Hybrid
• Horsepower & Torque: 457 hp | 583 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission Type: 10-Speed Direct Shift Automatic
• Drivetrain: Full-Time 4WD with Torsen Limited-Slip Center Differential
• 0-60 mph Time: Estimated 6.0 seconds
• Top Speed: Electronically limited to 130 mph
• Fuel Economy (MPG): 20 MPG Combined (EPA Estimated)
• Towing Capacity: 8,000 lbs
Chassis & Handling
• Platform: GA-F Body-on-Frame Architecture
• Suspension Type:
o Front: Double Wishbone
o Rear: Multi-Link
• Steering Type: Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Brakes:
o Front & Rear: Ventilated Disc Brakes
o Standard: Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Active Height Control (AHC)
• Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
• Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches
• Curb Weight: Approximately 6,200 lbs
Exterior & Design
• Overall Dimensions:
o Length: 200.5 inches
o Width: 78.4 inches
o Height: 74.2 inches
• Wheel & Tire Size: 22-inch Alloy Wheels, All-Season Tires
• Lighting:
o Full LED Lighting with L-Shaped DRLs
o Adaptive High-Beam System
o Sequential LED Turn Signals
• Body Material: High-Strength Steel and Aluminum Panels
• Aerodynamic Features: Spindle Grille with Active Airflow Management
Interior & Technology
• Seating Capacity: Four-Passenger Ultra Luxury Seating
• Upholstery & Materials:
o Semi-Aniline Leather
o Open-Pore Wood and Aluminum Trim
o Rear Massage Seats with Reclining Ottoman
• Infotainment System:
o 12.3-inch Touchscreen with Lexus Interface
o 7-inch Lower Screen for Climate & Off-Road Controls
o Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Audio System: 25-Speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound
• Driver Display: Fully Digital 12.3-inch Instrument Cluster & Head-Up Display (HUD)
• Climate Control: Four-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Cargo Space:
o Behind Rear Seats: 15.5 cubic feet
o With Rear Seats Folded (Other Trims): 71 cubic feet
Safety & Driver Assistance Features
• Crash Ratings: Pending NHTSA & IIHS Testing
• Standard Safety Features (Lexus Safety System+ 3.0):
o Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
o All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
o Lane Tracing Assist & Lane Departure Alert
o Road Sign Assist & Proactive Driving Assist
o Front Cross-Traffic Alert
o Traffic Jam Assist (Hands-Free in Slow Traffic)
o Safe Exit Assist (Prevents Door Opening in Dangerous Situations)
• Parking Assistance:
o 360-Degree Camera System
o Advanced Park with Remote Park (LX 700h Only)
o Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Connectivity & Convenience Features
• Wireless Charging: Standard
• USB Ports & Outlets:
o Multiple USB Type-C & Type-A Ports
o 120V AC Power Outlet in Cargo Area
• Keyless Entry & Remote Start: Standard
• Sunroof/Panoramic Roof: Panoramic Moonroof (Ultra Luxury Trim)
• Smartphone App Connectivity: Lexus App for Remote Start & Vehicle Status
Electrification & Hybrid Features
• Battery Type & Location: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), Under Rear Floor
• Hybrid Driving Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, Custom
• Regenerative Braking: Yes
• Motor-Only Low-Range Off-Road Mode: Exclusive to LX Hybrid
• Fording Depth: 27.5 inches (Waterproof Hybrid Battery Casing)
2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail: Electrified Adventure with Off-Road Mastery
• Year, Make, Model, Trim: 2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail
• Class/Segment: Full-Size Off-Road Luxury SUV
• MSRP: Starting at $115,350
Powertrain & Performance
• Engine Type & Displacement: 3.4L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Hybrid
• Horsepower & Torque: 457 hp | 583 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission Type: 10-Speed Direct Shift Automatic
• Drivetrain: Full-Time 4WD with Electronically Controlled Front & Rear Locking Differentials
• 0-60 mph Time: Estimated 6.0 seconds
• Top Speed: Electronically limited to 130 mph
• Fuel Economy (MPG): 20 MPG Combined (EPA Estimated)
• Towing Capacity: 8,000 lbs
Chassis & Handling
• Platform: GA-F Body-on-Frame Architecture
• Suspension Type:
o Front: Double Wishbone
o Rear: Multi-Link
• Steering Type: Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Brakes:
o Front & Rear: Ventilated Disc Brakes
o Standard: Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Active Height Control (AHC) and Off-Road Calibration
• Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
• Ground Clearance: 9.1 inches (Adjustable via AHC)
• Curb Weight: Approximately 6,300 lbs
Exterior & Design
• Overall Dimensions:
o Length: 200.5 inches
o Width: 78.4 inches
o Height: 74.2 inches
• Wheel & Tire Size: 18-inch Alloy Wheels with 33-inch All-Terrain Tires
• Lighting:
o Full LED Lighting with L-Shaped DRLs
o Adaptive High-Beam System
o Sequential LED Turn Signals
• Body Material: High-Strength Steel and Aluminum Panels
• Off-Road Enhancements:
o Front Skid Plate
o Matte Gray Grille and Dark Chrome Trim
o Black Overfenders and Roof Rails
o Off-Road Ready All-Weather Floor Liners
Interior & Technology
• Seating Capacity: Five-Passenger Configuration
• Upholstery & Materials:
o Semi-Aniline Leather with Stone Brown Stitching
o Black Open-Pore Wood Trim
• Infotainment System:
o 12.3-inch Touchscreen with Lexus Interface
o 7-inch Lower Screen for Climate & Off-Road Controls
o Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Audio System: 10-Speaker Premium Lexus Audio System
• Driver Display: Fully Digital 12.3-inch Instrument Cluster & Head-Up Display (HUD)
• Climate Control: Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Cargo Space:
o Behind Rear Seats: 15.5 cubic feet
o With Rear Seats Folded: 71 cubic feet
Safety & Driver Assistance Features
• Crash Ratings: Pending NHTSA & IIHS Testing
• Standard Safety Features (Lexus Safety System+ 3.0):
o Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
o All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
o Lane Tracing Assist & Lane Departure Alert
o Road Sign Assist & Proactive Driving Assist
o Front Cross-Traffic Alert
o Traffic Jam Assist (Hands-Free in Slow Traffic)
o Safe Exit Assist (Prevents Door Opening in Dangerous Situations)
• Parking Assistance:
o 360-Degree Camera System
o Advanced Park with Remote Park (LX 700h Only)
o Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Connectivity & Convenience Features
• Wireless Charging: Standard
• USB Ports & Outlets:
o Multiple USB Type-C & Type-A Ports
o 120V AC Power Outlet in Cargo Area
• Keyless Entry & Remote Start: Standard
• Sunroof/Panoramic Roof: Available
• Smartphone App Connectivity: Lexus App for Remote Start & Vehicle Status
Electrification & Hybrid Features
• Battery Type & Location: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), Under Rear Floor
• Hybrid Driving Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, Custom, Off-Road
• Regenerative Braking: Yes
• Motor-Only Low-Range Off-Road Mode: Exclusive to LX Hybrid
• Fording Depth: 27.5 inches (Waterproof Hybrid Battery Casing)
The Overtrail trim transforms the Lexus LX 700h into a true adventure-ready luxury SUV, blending refined elegance with hardcore off-road capability. Whether navigating rocky trails or cruising through city streets, the Overtrail ensures drivers experience the pinnacle of Lexus engineering, reliability, and performance
2025 Lexus LX 700h F Sport: Performance and Precision in a Luxury SUV
• Year, Make, Model, Trim: 2025 Lexus LX 700h F Sport
• Class/Segment: Full-Size Performance Luxury SUV
• MSRP: Starting at $117,850
Powertrain & Performance
• Engine Type & Displacement: 3.4L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Hybrid
• Horsepower & Torque: 457 hp | 583 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission Type: 10-Speed Direct Shift Automatic
• Drivetrain: Full-Time 4WD with Torsen Limited-Slip Center Differential
• 0-60 mph Time: Estimated 6.0 seconds
• Top Speed: Electronically limited to 130 mph
• Fuel Economy (MPG): 20 MPG Combined (EPA Estimated)
• Towing Capacity: 8,000 lbs
Chassis & Handling
• Platform: GA-F Body-on-Frame Architecture
• Suspension Type:
o Front: Double Wishbone
o Rear: Multi-Link
• Steering Type: Electric Power Steering (EPS) with F Sport Tuning
• Brakes:
o Front & Rear: Ventilated Disc Brakes
o Standard: Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Performance Tuning
o F Sport Exclusive: Larger Performance Brakes with High-Friction Pads
• Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
• Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches
• Curb Weight: Approximately 6,250 lbs
Exterior & Design
• Overall Dimensions:
o Length: 200.5 inches
o Width: 78.4 inches
o Height: 74.2 inches
• Wheel & Tire Size: 22-inch Forged Aluminum F Sport Wheels, High-Performance Tires
• Lighting:
o Full LED Lighting with L-Shaped DRLs
o Adaptive High-Beam System
o Sequential LED Turn Signals
• Body Material: High-Strength Steel and Aluminum Panels
• Aerodynamic Enhancements:
o Unique F Sport Front Grille and Bumper Design
o Rear Spoiler for Improved Stability
o Gloss Black Exterior Trim Accents
Interior & Technology
• Seating Capacity: Five-Passenger Configuration
• Upholstery & Materials:
o Perforated Leather with F Sport Embossed Headrests
o Hadori Aluminum Trim with Sport Accents
• Infotainment System:
o 12.3-inch Touchscreen with Lexus Interface
o 7-inch Lower Screen for Climate & Drive Mode Controls
o Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Audio System: 25-Speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound
• Driver Display: Fully Digital 12.3-inch Instrument Cluster & Head-Up Display (HUD)
• Climate Control: Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Cargo Space:
o Behind Rear Seats: 15.5 cubic feet
o With Rear Seats Folded: 71 cubic feet
Safety & Driver Assistance Features
• Crash Ratings: Pending NHTSA & IIHS Testing
• Standard Safety Features (Lexus Safety System+ 3.0):
o Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
o All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
o Lane Tracing Assist & Lane Departure Alert
o Road Sign Assist & Proactive Driving Assist
o Front Cross-Traffic Alert
o Traffic Jam Assist (Hands-Free in Slow Traffic)
o Safe Exit Assist (Prevents Door Opening in Dangerous Situations)
• Parking Assistance:
o 360-Degree Camera System
o Advanced Park with Remote Park (LX 700h Only)
o Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Connectivity & Convenience Features
• Wireless Charging: Standard
• USB Ports & Outlets:
o Multiple USB Type-C & Type-A Ports
o 120V AC Power Outlet in Cargo Area
• Keyless Entry & Remote Start: Standard
• Sunroof/Panoramic Roof: Available
• Smartphone App Connectivity: Lexus App for Remote Start & Vehicle Status
Electrification & Hybrid Features
• Battery Type & Location: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), Under Rear Floor
• Hybrid Driving Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, Custom
• Regenerative Braking: Yes
• Motor-Only Low-Range Off-Road Mode: Exclusive to LX Hybrid
• Fording Depth: 27.5 inches (Waterproof Hybrid Battery Casing)
The F Sport trim of the Lexus LX 700h brings an edge to the flagship SUV, enhancing driving dynamics with performance-tuned suspension, aggressive styling, and sportier interior finishes. Designed for enthusiasts who want both luxury and agility, the LX 700h F Sport offers a bold alternative in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
