Would you forego hybrid if it was an option?

[lcat63]

I’m still kind of on the fence regarding how I feel about the hybrid powertrain. Would you go for the same powertrain sans the hybrid pieces, if that was an option?

Looking at Tacoma prices, I’m amazed at how little the hybrid option costs over the ICE version of the same trim level. Looks like less than a replacement hybrid battery alone would cost.

 

[RideWithYanu]

No, I probably would have just gotten a GX550 if I wanted a different powertrain. The turbo hybrid electric engine was one of the most compelling features of the J250.

I’d be tempted by the mild hybrid diesel though.

 

[jpto]

If I had my choice I’d go for the diesel version

 

[pnwlc250]

I appreciate the additional power and torque that the hybrid system provides and am very satisfied with the power unit in the first 9000 miles. The ICE is a bit buzzy, especially when not up to operating temperature, and I think the hybrid system makes for a smoother overall experience. I’d be a bit concerned about not having the assistance of the electric motor given the weight and aerodynamics of the vehicle. I am firmly pro-hybrid in this particular application.

 

[Lineman]

I would have not bought the LC if it was a “plugin hybrid.” A diesel LC in the US would have been my choice. In my experience, a diesel vehicle is superior to a gas vehicle in just about every way.

 

[DPM81]

Piling on here - gas 4 banger without the hybrid, hard no. The torque boost of the battery can be felt (and seen with the gauge) as well as long stretches around town in battery only now its broken in and warmer out.

I have some fomo for the v6 turbo but I ran into a guy last week who wants to ditch his GX550 for a LC because he’s getting 13 (!!!) mpg. (Although suspect he would be in the LC 17mpg club as he must have a heavy foot, but still.)

And lastly, yes this vehicle and diesel would be peaches and cream, a little bit of diesel noise with all the low end torque - but the hybrid assisted 4 somewhat sounds and feels “diesely” so it works for me

 

[NoMe cruiser]

I would like to try the non hybrid 4Runners. To be honest this set up in the lc is impressive. Deep snow and mud and this things power band is wherever you need it to be. Just seems like it’s such a good match to the tranny I doubt the non hybrid would be better for me personally.

 

[TakaraLC]

I will take a hybrid over a diesel any day.

 

[cvx5832LC]

Alter 27k miles I concur, the T24A + hybrid + 8-speed combo is an awesome combo

 

[APIOQM]

Of all the 250 powertrains, I like the T24A-HEV the most, as it is the best of both worlds. Diesel low end torque, but also strong top end performance. The 120v inverter is a nice added bonus. If I could have the V35A, I’d probably opt for that.

 

[jcdeng]

I am pretty ok with it. Feels slow on the get go but I am coming from a tuned audi S4 with 450 at the crank. I actually wouldn't mind if they had a LC with a V6 hybrid (no turbo), same hybrid technology but connected to a NA v6.

 

[6-funk]

I'm happy with it, one of my favorite things is to cruise silently thru parking lots. I'm starting to get more elec. cruising at neighborhood speeds as well. Haven't had a chance at any off road shenanigans yet. The smooth rush of torque is really satisfying.

 

[Area 51]

The current 4cyl turbo battery assist power train is bitchen in all ways, really glad i sent with this vsd the boring Lexus.
Its very entertaining and keeps me interested with all the gadgetry and fun stuff to play with on the longer days.I am enjoying this vehicle immensely.
They will just keep getting better.

 

[D-Train]

I would have not bought the LC if it was a “plugin hybrid.” A diesel LC in the US would have been my choice. In my experience, a diesel vehicle is superior to a gas vehicle in just about every way.

Agree to disagree... Maybe this was true years ago pre-DEF. I own a diesel van and I don't recommend folks get the diesel version. The bolt on after treatment now required by the EPA is a complete disaster. Ask me about the AEM recall over it. Take to the VW owners about it.

They can take their DEF and shove it!

 

[n0m@d]

If instead of the hybrid there was i6(BMW’s b58 from supra/ineos grenadier) or v6 (from lc300/gx550/lx600/tundra/sequoia) option, then I would definitely go with that and willing to pay more.

Why?:

• less complexity -> peace of mind yeah, I'm aware of recall,
• maybe a tad lighter?
• better payload?! (I have 2 kiddos and big dog, any long-ish road trip we are maxing out our payload or maybe even going a bit over)
• bigger trunk (dog alone takes almost entire space)

Why not GX550/LX600/Sequoia:

• LX600 is too expensive
• LX600 doesn't have some off-roady features/trims (I'm aware of LX700h, but again, it is hybrid and I'm not huge fan of compromises coming with it)
• Both LX600 and GX550 have compromised approach angle and I'm a bit skeptical about steel aftermarket front bumpers (fam's and pedestrians' safety)
• GX550 inferior AC (doesn't have roof vents and less AC zones (1(2?) instead of LC's 2(3?))
• GX550 has adaptive suspension and e-kdss (too much complexity for my primitive anxious brain)
• Sequoia is compromised off-roader/road-tripper (too long wheelbase, too wide, too heavy, has 3rd row and battery -> tiny trunk) and its exterior design is a bit polarizing

With 4runners hitting the market now I'm somewhat tempted with non-hybrid SR5/TRD Off Road non-premium, but only as a second vehicle for summer adventures (lack of full time four wheel drive doesn't inspire too much confidence for winter driving ).

 

[D-mac]

Agree to disagree... Maybe this was true years ago pre-DEF. I own a diesel van and I don't recommend folks get the diesel version. The bolt on after treatment now required by the EPA is a complete disaster. Ask me about the AEM recall over it. Take to the VW owners about it.

They can take their DEF and shove it!

Like it or not diesel is almost completely dead for new light duty vehicles in the USA. The only ones available for MY25 are GM pickups the last time I checked. I thought SUVs /4x4s with 500+ mile cruising range were cool but the US market disagrees.

 

[DoMoCruiser24]

No. I was already going for the GX550. But after test driving the LC250, I was impressed and got the Toyota instead. There wasn’t even a significant price delta either.

 

[bkral]

Piling on here - gas 4 banger without the hybrid, hard no. The torque boost of the battery can be felt (and seen with the gauge) as well as long stretches around town in battery only now its broken in and warmer out.

I have some fomo for the v6 turbo but I ran into a guy last week who wants to ditch his GX550 for a LC because he’s getting 13 (!!!) mpg. (Although suspect he would be in the LC 17mpg club as he must have a heavy foot, but still.)

And lastly, yes this vehicle and diesel would be peaches and cream, a little bit of diesel noise with all the low end torque - but the hybrid assisted 4 somewhat sounds and feels “diesely” so it works for me

I just test drove a used 2024 550 Overtrail and it had 15000 miles on it.

The gauge read……..

TWELVE mpg.

I mentioned it when I got back with it and the manager of the lot says he drives it like an asshole because it’s just a loaner he takes from the lot.

And then they still wanted $82,000 for a used overtrail that’s been driven that hard in only 8 months.

 

[AlexGates]

I would have gotten a 6 if they offered it. That said, this is my first hybrid of any type and I do like sitting with the a/c running and the engine isn't running, pretty nice.

 

[Piggy]

I’d be tempted by the mild hybrid diesel though.

If I had my choice I’d go for the diesel version

You guys underestimate how under-powered the 1GD really is...

You're losing 125hp and 130nm/94lb.ft...