2025 Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury Review: Hybrid Power and Executive Comfort in a Capable Off-Road SUV

Without a doubt, this is the most expensive and most luxurious SUV I've ever driven. When I saw the $140,000 price tag on the Monroney sticker, I was curious about what on Earth could justify such an astronomical price compared to top competitors like the Escalade, Navigator, GLS, and X7. After spending time with the 2025 Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury through Toledo's streets and Ohio's rural back roads, I discovered the answer lies in an almost absurd level of refinement that somehow doesn't scream for attention.

Hybrid Power That Actually Delivers Performance

The heart of the LX 700h combines a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine with Lexus' first hybrid system to feature both an alternator and starter as standard components. This setup produces an impressive 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic transmission that delivers smooth acceleration whether merging onto highways or navigating country roads.

During my drives around Toledo and through rural Ohio, the hybrid system provided exactly what I'd expect from both Lexus and this trim level - smooth, quiet operation with virtually no vibration. The vehicle delivered plenty of power to accelerate confidently onto highways and even have some fun on back roads, though this is definitely a heavy vehicle that prioritizes comfort over canyon carving.

The hybrid system's unique capability extends beyond efficiency. In off-road conditions, it expands capabilities by adding motor-driven power to low range for the first time in a Lexus, enabling motor-only driving in scenarios requiring precise throttle control like rocky paths or deep snow.

Executive Transport Comfort With Real-World Compromises

The Ultra Luxury grade transforms the LX into a four-seat executive transport rather than a traditional family hauler. The rear seats feature curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions that gently wrap around passengers, with crafted VIP seating designed to offset lateral G-forces and irregular road surfaces.

However, my experience revealed some practical limitations. The legroom and seat height in the second row is absolutely terrible unless you kick back and recline - then it becomes extremely comfortable. The catch? You need to push the front passenger seat all the way forward so the leg rest can extend properly. I'm not sure how this would work behind the driver's seat, since I needed my seat positioned all the way back for comfortable driving.

This configuration makes sense if the trim is designed for a driver transporting VIPs between meetings or from office to home, but it limits versatility for weekend getaway scenarios or guys trips where everyone needs reasonable space.

Technology and Convenience Features That Actually Matter

The LX 700h comes equipped with dual touchscreen setup - a 12.3-inch upper display and LX-exclusive 7-inch lower screen that handles climate control and Multi-Terrain Select functions. The interface operates similarly to smartphones and tablets, though I encountered some frustrating control placement issues.

The door handle positioning awkwardly blocks easy access to window, door lock, and mirror adjustment buttons. I found myself accidentally hitting the wrong window control several times during coffee runs, which became genuinely annoying during daily driving.

Additional impressive features include the waterproof 2400W AC inverter positioned under the center console, five massage options for the front seats with adjustable intensity levels, and Ultra Luxury-exclusive overhead ceiling vents for providing full-body climate comfort. The rear control panel centrally manages the passenger experience through audio, climate, seat adjustment, and lighting controls.

Off-Road Capability That Sets It Apart From Luxury Competitors

One aspect that truly distinguishes the LX 700h from competitors like the Escalade or X7 is its Land Cruiser-based platform foundation. This means genuine off-road capability that extends far beyond mall parking lots and gravel driveways.

The vehicle features a Torsen limited-slip locking center differential standard across all models, splitting engine power 50:50 for exceptional control in low-grip situations. Multi-Terrain Select offers nine different modes between high range (Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow) and low range (Auto, Sand, Mud, Rock) to optimize drive power, hydraulic brake pressure, and suspension control.

Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension come standard, providing improved grip, traction, and control while maintaining the sense of strength and security expected in this price range. Crawl Control with Turn Assist allows forward or reverse movement at five driver-selected low speeds, while the Multi-Terrain Monitor uses four cameras to provide underfloor visibility during challenging terrain.

At this price point and interior configuration, however, I find it hard to believe owners will be tackling the Mojave Trail or exploring Joshua Tree's Old Dale Mining District while passengers watch movies in the back seat with the massage seats kneading away any stress they might feel at the time. The risk of scratching or denting a vehicle worth as much as a house seems prohibitive for serious off-road adventures.

Regardless though ... I'd love to try that experience just for the absurdity of it!

Fuel Economy and Space Trade-offs vs Off-Road Capability

The Land Cruiser-based platform delivers genuine capability but requires compromises in fuel economy and interior space compared to unibody luxury competitors. The EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined represents decent efficiency for a hybrid system producing 457 horsepower, but it trails some competitors focused purely on on-road performance.

The robust platform and always-on four-wheel-drive system contribute to the substantial curb weight that impacts both efficiency and agility. While the 8,000-pound towing capacity enables hauling boats or trailers for weekend adventures in Northern Michigan, the overall package feels more suited to executive transport than recreational utility.

Understated Luxury That Doesn't Demand Attention

What struck me most during my time with the LX 700h was its understated presence. Despite the astronomical price tag, it's less conspicuous than you might expect from a quick glance. I appreciate this approach because it doesn't scream wealth - it simply provides exceptional comfort for the occupants rather than impressing onlookers.

The particular green sparkly paint on my test vehicle was genuinely beautiful, though photos simply can't communicate how stunning it looked in person. This exemplifies the LX's approach to luxury - quality and refinement that reveals itself through experience rather than flashy exterior displays.

Virtually every surface features soft padded leather or equally luxurious accent materials. The attention to detail and material quality justifies much of the premium, though the overall experience feels tailored to a specific use case rather than general luxury transportation.

Why the LX 700h Ultra Luxury Earns Its Place in Executive Garages

The 2025 Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury represents an almost absurd level of refinement wrapped in an understated package that prioritizes substance over flash. At $141,350, it commands serious money but delivers genuine capability that extends far beyond typical luxury SUV territory.

This vehicle excels as executive transport for professionals who value quiet luxury and authentic capability. The hybrid powertrain provides guilt-free performance while the Land Cruiser foundation offers weekend adventure potential that competitors cannot match. However, the Ultra Luxury configuration makes specific compromises that limit versatility for family hauling or recreational use.

If you love Lexus and want to experience peak luxury without ostentation, the LX 700h Ultra Luxury deserves serious consideration. For those simply curious about life as a tech company chairman, it offers an excellent glimpse into that lifestyle. Please note that this level of luxury is associated with specific use case assumptions that may not align with every buyer's needs.

Ultimately, what it comes down to is what you're looking for in your luxury SUV experience. The LX 700h delivers uncompromising executive comfort with genuine off-road capability, but at a price point that demands careful consideration of how you'll actually use such an extraordinary vehicle.

Manufacturer Information: Learn more about the 2025 Lexus LX lineup on Lexus's official website.