Americans have a soft spot for the Lexus LX, thanks to its genuine off-road capability and bulletproof reliability while still offering a high degree of luxury. The all-new 2022 Lexus LX 600 carries on that tradition whilst also debuting a number of firsts for the Lexus brand.
Same GA-F Platform As Land Cruiser 300
The discontinuation of the Land Cruiser for the U.S. market certainly disappointed the iconic SUV’s fans, but the Lexus LX - whose price tag nearly matches that of its Toyota sibling - will proudly fill this missing void. Because this is effectively a more luxurious Land Cruiser 300, the Lexus LX 600 rides on Toyota’s latest TNGA platform. In this case, it’s called the GA-F that’s designed for body-on-frame applications. This also means that the all-new LX inherits the Land Cruiser 300’s 441-lb diet.
More Power In A Smaller Displacement Engine
Unsurprisingly, the 2022 Lexus LX 600 is powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 gasoline engine from the Land Cruiser 300, and it replaces the 5.7-liter V-8 naturally-aspirated engine of the previous model.
This engine produces 409 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, and these figures are a significant increase of 26 hp and 76 lb-ft despite it being a smaller engine. Lexus is proud to highlight that its maximum torque figure is maintained even at 3,600 rpm.
All of that power is sent through a 4WD system via a 10-speed automatic transmission that features a very low first gear for smooth acceleration and improved low-speed off-road driving. On the other hand, the extra two gears allow for better fuel economy.
Surely, There's A Lexus LX Behind That Grille
Lexus has re-sculpted the window line for a more distinct side profile compared to the more upright Land Cruiser 300. The wheel arches are also more prominent than before. Lastly, the rear end ditches the “L” badge in favor of the “Lexus” lettering as seen in the all-new NX compact crossover SUV. Likewise, the LED bar connecting the two L-shaped LED taillights is also from the NX.
Revolutionary New Interior Design
While the exterior design is evolutionary, the interior looks completely different from its predecessor. The build quality has been improved, and then it also inherits the new Lexus Interface 12.3-inch infotainment system from the NX. from the NX.}}
Unique to the LX, however, is a secondary 7-inch touch screen. This, according to Lexus, allows drivers to use the main screen for the camera systems while still being able to see off-road information through the secondary screen. In addition, the all-new LX also debuts the brand’s first-ever engine start button with built-in fingerprint authentication as a way to prevent vehicle theft.
2 New Variants, F Sport And Ultra Luxury
New for the 2022 Lexus LX are two variants called F Sport and a four-seater version called Ultra Luxury. Starting with the F Sport, this model features distinct exterior elements such as the mesh grille, black chrome detailing, exclusive 22-inch forged alloy wheels, sports seats, and a "textured" leather steering wheel.
The F Sport variant's enhancements are also skin deep due to its uniquely-tuned adaptive variable suspension, enhanced electric power steering, and a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD) for better handling.
On the other hand, the Ultra Luxury variant only has four seats instead of the usual seven. In lieu of the second-row bench seats are two individual chairs that are shaped to help maintain a secure posture. The use of soft urethane with superior vibration absorption prevents unwanted movement even in off-road conditions. There's also a function that allows the front passenger seat to move forward in a single push of a button, increasing legroom by 43 inches.
Separating those two seats is a wide permanent center console with an integrated touch screen that controls the AC and the seats. The center console also houses a storage bin with a DC outlet, USB ports, and headphone jack for the rear entertainment system. Lastly, the ceiling-mounted aircon vents let rear passengers enjoy a "full body comfort breeze experience".
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 Comes As Standard
As with most modern cars nowadays, the 2022 Lexus LX comes with a suite of advanced safety systems. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 comes with a Pre-Collision System with Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, full-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beams, Emergency Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist.
The Lexus LX will arrive in dealerships in the first quarter of 2022, with pricing to be announced closer to its retail date.