Review
The Lexus LX is a large, modern, full-size luxury SUV that hasn’t sacrificed its off-road prowess. Based on the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which is no longer offered in North America, the LX600 is powered by a 409-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Rivals such as BMW X7 and Cadillac Escalade offer a greater experience with a more adult-friendly third row, but the LX600 has other merits. Instead of cold and corporate, it’s made for people who don’t mind getting sand between their toes. The LX600 is the epitome of gliding with a supple ride, adjustable air suspension and comfortable seats. But its rugged body-on-frame construction and Land Cruiser DNA make it a luxury SUV that’s happy to drive in the dirt.
What’s new in 2023?
Last year, Lexus released a completely new generation of the LX and does not make any major changes to it or the 2023.
Pricing and which one to buy
We think the Luxury trim represents the best value here—value is a relative term when you’re talking six-figure SUVs—as it adds niceties like semi-aniline leather upholstery, a Mark Levinson stereo, and handsome 22-inch wheels, among other features. If you’re looking for luxury that rivals the Range Rover or the top models from BMW and Mercedes, you’ll want to opt for the Ultra Luxury trim, but that limits the cabin to just four seats.
Engine, transmission and performance
The LX600 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine that produces 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive are standard. This power unit is launched in new Toyota Land Cruiser, which shares its mechanical underpinnings with the LX. Given Lexus’ penchant for hybrid powertrains, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a gas-electric setup similar to the one used in the LX under the hood 2022 Tundra pickup truck, but for now the company only offers this non-hybrid powertrain. A twin-turbo V-6 is on the way provides sufficient power as well as a refined character befitting a luxury vehicle like the LX. In our testing, the LX600 went from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is more than enough for most drivers. Most models provide a compliant ride, but those swooning over the F Sport model and its more aggressively tuned suspension will have to put up with some harshness in the ride.
Towing and load capacity
Every Lexus LX600 has an impressive towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
Fuel economy and real mpg
The LX600 earned fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway from the EPA, but we didn’t get a chance to test it on our 75 mph highway fuel economy route. For more information on the fuel economy of the LX, visit EPA website.
Interior, comfort and cargo
Inside, the luxurious makeup of the new LX is evident, starting with the wide center console between the front seats that creates a cozy cabin environment. Quilted leather upholstery, a leather dashboard, wood trim, and smoked chrome accents give the LX an upscale look and luxurious vibe. Standard entry-level equipment provides space for five people in two rows of seats; Premium, Luxury and F Sport trims come with a third row of seats that increases passenger capacity to seven. The top-of-the-line Ultra Luxury model is only offered in a four-seat configuration with twin captain’s chairs in the second row, separated by a center console, as well as rear-seat entertainment displays and wireless smartphone charging.
Infotainment system and communication
The LX’s dashboard comes with three standard displays: an 8.0-inch screen for the instrument panel, a 12.3-inch one for the infotainment system, and a separate 7.0-inch screen for the climate and vehicle controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Wireless charging is offered, and Lexus says audiophiles can upgrade the stereo to a 25-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system — if they’ve opted for the LX Luxury or LX Ultra Luxury.
Safety features and driver assistance
A suite of driver assistance features is standard on the LX and includes automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. For more information on the LX crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Road Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features include:
- Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Standard lane departure warning with assistance system
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and maintenance
The LX comes with the same warranty package as all other new Lexus models, including free scheduled maintenance for a year.
- The limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- The transmission is warrantied for 6 years or 70,000 miles
- Free maintenance is covered for 1 year or 10,000 miles
Technical characteristics
Technical characteristics
2022 Lexus LX600
Vehicle type: front engine, four-wheel drive, 4-7 passenger, 4-door station wagon
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $88,245 / $127,940
Ultra Luxury base price: $127,345; Manganese Luster premium paint, $595
ENGINE
24-valve DOHC twin-turbo intercooled V-6, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 210 inches33445 cm3
Power: 409 horsepower at 5200 rpm
Torque: 479 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm
TRANSMISSION
10-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, Front/Rear: Control Arms/Split Axle
Brakes, front/rear: 13.9-inch ventilated disc/13.2-inch ventilated disc
Tires: Dunlop Grandtrek PT5A
F: 265/50R-22 112V M+S with extra load
R: 265/50R-22 112V M+S with extra load
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 200.6 inches
Width: 78.3 inches
Height: 74.6 inches
Passenger volume: 109 feet3
Cargo volume: 41 feet3
Curb weight: 5,901 lbs
C/D EXAMINATION RESULTS
60 mph: 6.1 sec
1/4 mile: 14.6 seconds at 96 mph
100 mph: 15.7 sec
130 mph: 31.4 sec
The results above are omitted 1-foot sweep 0.4 sec.
Start from 5–60 mph: 6.6 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.4 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 4.4 sec
Maximum speed (C/D estimate): 130 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 194 feet
Road grip, 300-foot pad: 0.73g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 17 mpg
FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 19/17/22 mpg
https://www.caranddriver.com/lexus/a27436482/lx/
