Several Lexus models have already been electrified. But this seemed like an impossible feat with the LX, though. That’s because, in the current crop of the Japanese luxury automaker’s hybrid powertrains, none can offer the power and the ruggedness that it needs.

That is why even the first iteration of the current fourth-generation model can only be had with a twin-turbocharged V6 petrol or diesel engine. But at a time when almost all vehicles are electrified, Lexus knew that the full-size SUV should have new-energy powertrains sooner or later.

Like the insane dedication the brand has put in developing its first and widely successful model (the LS), the company dug deep in its hat of tricks to make an electrified powertrain worthy of being installed in its flagship SUV.

The result is a unique system that breaks conventions as far as hybrid electric vehicles are concerned. But what makes it different?

The new LX now comes in two variants. The base LX600 uses the same 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 409hp and 650Nm of torque. A new trim, the LX700h, uses the new hybrid system that Lexus has made.

The new variant uses the same engine as the base trim, but now comes with an electric motor. And while most Lexus hybrids are fitted with a CVT, the hybrid LX uses a 10-speed Electro-Shiftmatic transmission.

Most hybrid powertrains focus on improving fuel efficiency and lessening emissions—and this one is no different. The new system also enhances the vehicle’s performance while driving on or off the road.

Just like before, the use of the electric motor over the engine is prioritized. The generous amount of torque this offers proves useful in setting this behemoth in motion and during hard acceleration.

It also works with the Multi-Terrain Select feature for more precise throttle control, enabling it to tackle tricky trails easily.

The platform has been modified to fit hybrid components into the vehicle. The rear engine mount was beefed up—a cross member was added and was made more rigid.

The spare tire cross was also altered to give room to the hybrid battery while helping the LX retain its departure angle.

The company made a special waterproof enclosure for the hybrid main battery on the rear floor. This enables the LX700h to have a water-fording capability of 700mm, just like the normal ICE-only version.

When water does enter the enclosure, a special sensor detects it to notify the driver through the instrumentation. Furthermore, a conventional starter can still fire up the engine, and an alternator can keep the 12V auxiliary battery juiced up so you can still drive the hybrid LX like a regular ICE-only version if the hybrid system fails.

This makes the LX700h the most capable Lexus SUV yet. But the automaker isn’t done yet, as there’s a special version called the Overtrail.

Here, the spindle grille, the roof rails, the window and wheel arch moldings, the door handles, the outer mirrors, the rear-bumper side garnish, and the fog lamps are either blacked out or finished in dark tones, which looks good with the new Moon Desert finish.

It also gets a front and rear differential lock and a choice between a set of 265/70 R18 all-terrain tires or 265/65 R18 mud-and-snow rubber. Combined with tweaks to the Adaptive Variable Suspension, the LX is even more capable of tackling trickier trails.

The SUV also receives an improved suite of advanced driver-assist features such as proactive driving assist, pre-collision safety, radar cruise control with all-speed follow, lane departure warning, and driver abnormality response system.

Despite facing production challenges, the new LX is now available in Japan and will soon be sold in other markets worldwide. We believe it’s just a matter of time before this makes it to our shores.