Toyota's luxury vehicle division, the Lexus has globally unvield the new-generation version of the LX full-sized sport utility vehicle after 14 years. It is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Land Cruiser, of course with a more superior appearance. The SUV could make its way to India as its previous-gen model is still on sale in the country. So, it’s appropriate we learn more about the upcoming Lexus offering.
1. Lexus LX 600 – Exterior Design, Underpinnings, and Dimensions
The 2022 Lexus LX is based on Toyota's new GA-F body-on-frame platform, which is not only 200kgs lighter than before but also offers 20 percent more rigidity. The weight reduction has been achieved by downsizing the engine displacement and employing a new & lighter Active Height Control (AHC) suspension. Besides, the brand has also used high-strength aluminum in the roof, which also helps to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Design-wise, the Lexus LX 600 displays confidence and vigorousness thanks to the wide & upright posture of the SUV along with the seven horizontal chrome bar grille that illustrates a character of prestige that helps it stand out in the crowd. A pair of sleek triple-beam LED headlamps with the brand’s signature ‘tick’ styled daytime runnings lamps, and fog lamps flank the grille. It also gets a sculpted bonnet that further enhances its overall appeal.
The side profile of the SUV is reminiscent of the new Land Cruiser, featuring smooth character lines and squared & noticeable wheel arches, which can accommodate up to 22-inch alloys wheels.
At back, it boats an upright boot lid with ‘LEXUS’ badging at the center and wide LED tail lamps that are connected by an LED light bar.
In terms of size, the new SUV continues with the earlier dimensions with the same wheelbase (2850mm), ground clearance (225mm), approach (25 degrees), departure (20 degrees), and break-over angles (25 degrees). It has a fording depth of 700mm.
2. Lexus LX 600 – Variants
Catering to a wider section of buyers, the new Lexus LX will be offered in 5 trims – Standard, Premium, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport.
3. Lexus LX 600 – Cabin & Features
The new LX is designed to provide vehicle occupants with outstanding comfort and enrich their lifestyle. It is fitted with high-quality soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery to give it a premium feel. It comes with tons of comfort, convenience, and luxury features like twin-screen set up in the center console (a 12.3-inch floating infotainment and a 7-inch unit below it for off-road data and climate control functions), Lexus’ first fingerprint-authentication push-start switch to reduce the risk of theft, a rear seat display, special reading lights, sunshades for windows & quarter glass panels, wireless charging, heads-up display, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, heated & ventilated front seats, Multi-Terrain Select system, and much more.
Also, it is the first time when Lexus has offered the LX in a 4-seater layout (only with the VIP trim), demonstrating a more personalized luxury experience. That said, it comes with four independent seats for superior and safe travel on all kinds of roads. Its electrically adjustable rear seats get a dedicated rear-seat console, concave headrests, seatbacks, cushions, and exclusive ceiling air conditioner vents. These seats can be reclined up to 48 degrees and can offer maximum legroom of 1,100mm.
On the other hand, the F SPORT trim is specially designed to allow drivers to enjoy sporty driving on winding roads. And so, it comes with specially tuned EPS (Electronic Power Steering) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), allowing the driver to experience the linear response of the vehicle. In addition, it also receives optimized cushioned seats for better hold, Flare Red interior color for sporty appearance, front & rear performance shock absorbers, and a rear stabilizer for more salutary performance.
4. Lexus LX 600 – Performance
The new Lexus LX will be available with either a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline mill that offers a whopping power output of 415PS and 670Nm of peak torque or a smaller 3.3-liter V6 diesel twin-turbo engine that belts out 309PS and 700Nm. Both mills are mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive system. Since the SUV is known for its off-roading prowess, it comes with adaptive height adjustable suspensions, multi-terrain mode (Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock), electronic differential locks for both axles, downhill assist control, crawl control function, and much more.
5. Lexus LX 600 – India Launch, Expected Price, and Rivals
While the brand is yet to reveal its launch timeline, it is likely to come by the end of 2022 in the Indian market. Expect it to command a significant price premium over the ongoing model, which retails at Rs 2.33 crore (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will lock horns with the BMW X7, Audi Q8, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and the Land Rover Discovery.
