Overview

Lexus’s flagship LX SUV has been redesigned for 2022, sporting an upgraded interior and riding on a modernized platform and powered by a twin-turbocharged engine. Based on the new Toyota Land Cruiser—which, sadly, will not be sold in the U.S.—the LX600 takes off-road capability seriously but doesn’t skimp on the luxury. The previous generation came with a burly V-8 engine, but the new version will make do with a 409-hp twin-turbo V-6. Four-wheel drive remains standard and the LX can be equipped with a number of off-road goodies, including a height-adjustable suspension system. Lexus richened the new LX600’s interior to compete with plusher contemporaries—large luxury SUVs such as the BMW X7, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-class.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The LX600 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine that makes 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive are both standard. This powertrain launched in the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which shares its mechanical underpinnings with the LX. Given Lexus’s penchant for hybrid powertrains, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a gas-electric setup under the LX’s hood, similar to the one used in the 2022 Tundra pickup, but so far the company has only revealed information on this non-hybrid powertrain. On the road, the twin-turbo V-6 provides ample power as well as a refined nature suitable for a luxury application such as the LX. Most models deliver a compliant ride, but those swooning over the F Sport model and its more aggressively-tuned suspension will have to put up with some ride harshness. When we get a chance to test the LX600, we’ll update this story with test results.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The LX600 earned fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway from the EPA, but we haven’t had a chance to test it on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route. For more information about the LX’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the new LX receives a modern and luxurious makeover, with a wide center console between the front seats that creates a cozy cockpit environment. Quilted leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped dashboard, wood trim, and smoked-chrome accents gives the LX a high-end appearance and luxe ambiance. The entry-level Standard trim comes with room for five across in two rows of seats; the Premium, Luxury, and F Sport trims come with a third row of seats that increases passenger capacity to seven. The top-spec Ultra Luxury model is only offered as a four-seat layout, with dual captain’s chairs in the rear divided by a center console, plus rear-seat entertainment displays, wireless smartphone charging capability, and specially designed seats to maximize comfort.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The LX’s dashboard comes with three standard displays, an 8.0-inch screen for the gauge cluster, a 12.3-incher for the infotainment, and a separate 7.0-inch screen for climate and vehicle controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both expected to be standard and could even be offered with wireless connectivity. Wireless charging will be offered, and Lexus says audiophiles will be able to upgrade the stereo to a 25-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

A suite of driver-assistance features is standard on the LX and includes automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. For more information about the LX’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

•  Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian-and-bicyclist detection
•  Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
•  Standard adaptive cruise control