Toyota LandCruiser Hybrid one big step closer with Lexus LX700h twin's debut
10/11/2024 04:00 PM
A hybrid LandCruiser 300 Series is closer than ever, following the reveal of the Lexus LX700h hybrid – which adds an electric boost to a twin-turbo petrol V6.
The chances of a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series hybrid have become significantly stronger with this week’s addition of petrol-electric power to its Lexus LX luxury twin.
If a LandCruiser 300 Series hybrid does come to fruition – and is sold in Australia – it would become the first petrol-fuelled version of Toyota’s flagship 4WD to be sold locally in more than five years.
Toyota does not typically comment on future model speculation, with a spokesperson telling Drive the brand has “nothing to announce” when asked about a hybrid 300 Series based on the new Lexus LX700h.
However, the synergies between the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series and Lexus LX mean it is a no-brainer for the 4WDs to share hybrid technology.
MORE: 2025 Lexus LX hybrid revealed – LX700h added with Australia-bound tech upgrade
Toyota has previously announced every vehicle in its line-up – excluding Gazoo Racing performance cars – will be available with hybrid or electric power by the end of this decade.
It has previously shown electric LandCruiser concept vehicles, but concerns over driving range, charging infrastructure and price are expected to push a battery-only model closer to 2030.
The Lexus LX700h combines a 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 with an electric motor, a configuration derived from the Toyota Tundra pick-up due on sale in Australia next month.
Power outputs have not been disclosed, but the Tundra develops 325kW and 790Nm – with the LX700h retaining its 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
In the Tundra, the electric motor develops just 36kW – so it is designed for short bursts of low-speed driving on battery power, or taking the load off the engine at other times, rather than propelling the vehicle in most scenarios like an electric car.
Fuel use for the LX700h is yet to be confirmed, but in the Tundra, the hybrid system cuts consumption in mixed driving by around five per cent – or 10 per cent in the city – compared to a standard petrol version.
Lexus says the LX700h’s wading depth is unchanged from the regular petrol and diesel versions at 700mm, while changes have been made under the skin to incorporate the hybrid battery without affecting ground clearance or departure angle.
Reports suggest an update for the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series is due in Japanese showrooms by the end of this year, with an updated infotainment system, and improved advanced safety systems also offered in the Lexus LX.
“Toyota is always looking at ways to add excitement to our line-up and we would be keen to assess any new variants should they become available globally, but we have nothing to announce today,” a company spokesperson told Drive.
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