Redesigned for the 2022 model year, the Lexus Lx 600 continues to refine its legacy as a flagship luxury SUV with key updates for 2023. Since its inception in 1995, the Lexus LX has embodied a unique duality: offering unparalleled comfort and sophistication for long journeys, while possessing robust off-road capabilities proven in over 50 countries globally. The 2023 model year enhances this reputation with customer-focused improvements, solidifying the Lexus LX‘s position at the pinnacle of the luxury SUV segment.
The heart of the Lexus LX 600 remains its potent 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, delivering both high output and torque. Complementing this powerful engine are the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system and Electric Power Steering (EPS), ensuring refined vehicle control across diverse driving conditions, from city streets to rugged terrains.
Stepping inside the Lexus LX reveals a meticulously crafted cabin prioritizing comfort and intuitive usability. The instrument panel is dominated by the Lexus Interface, featuring a dual-display configuration. A 12.3-inch upper screen works in tandem with a 7-inch lower screen to provide a seamless and informative driving experience, offering a wide array of views, vehicle data, and control adjustments.
The interior of the Lexus LX is offered in a sophisticated palette of five color options: Palomino, White/Peppercorn, Circuit Red, Black, and the elegant Sunflare. Exterior aesthetics of the Lexus LX strike a balance between athletic dynamism, practical functionality, and captivating beauty, a design philosophy first showcased in the 2022 NX. The Lexus LX‘s optimized proportions exude both sophistication and a powerful road presence.
Exterior color choices for the Lexus LX include seven distinctive options: Eminent White Pearl*, Atomic Pearl, Manganese Luster*, Nori Green Pearl, Caviar, Ultra White (F SPORT Handling), and Black Onyx (F SPORT Handling).
*Premium paint available for an additional fee of $595.
Key Technical Features of the Lexus LX 600
GA-F Platform: Foundation of Superior Ride and Handling
The 2023 Lexus LX 600 retains the robust GA-F platform introduced in the previous model year. This platform is instrumental in enhancing body rigidity, resulting in a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, a hallmark of the Lexus Driving Signature. Drivers of the Lexus LX will appreciate the predictable and balanced handling during cornering, acceleration, and braking, along with improved stability when venturing off the beaten path.
To achieve this blend of exceptional off-road performance and refined on-road handling, the Lexus LX employs a front high-mounted double-wishbone suspension. The carefully engineered suspension geometry and optimized coil springs contribute to both excellent vehicle stability and superior ride comfort. The suspension travel, a crucial factor for off-road prowess, is generously configured with 100 mm (3.93 in.) of jounce and 145 mm (5.7 in.) of rebound, ensuring exceptional performance both on and off the road for the Lexus LX.
Power and Linearity: Twin-Turbo V6 Engine and Direct Shift-10AT
Under the hood, the Lexus LX 600 boasts a 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine (V35A-FTS). This powerhouse delivers 409 horsepower (415 PS) and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque. Crucially, the engine maintains peak torque across a broad rev range, up to approximately 3,600 rpm. This characteristic enhances drivability in various scenarios, from everyday on-road driving to demanding off-road situations that often require low-speed maneuvering.
Alt text: Powerful Lexus LX 600 twin-turbo V6 engine, highlighting performance and innovation.
The Direct Shift-10AT transmission in the Lexus LX provides a smooth and refined start, characteristic of a torque converter system. It also delivers the direct acceleration feel of a manual transmission by engaging lockup across nearly its entire operating range, except from a complete stop. The transmission’s close-ratio gear spacing and rapid shift times contribute to crisp and rhythmic gear changes, harmonizing with the engine’s sound and enhancing the driving experience in the Lexus LX.
A wide gear ratio range ensures both comfortable starts and efficient high-speed cruising. The low first gear amplifies driving force at lower speeds, enabling smooth starts and potent low-speed off-road performance for the Lexus LX.
To further enhance off-road durability, the automatic transmission of the Lexus LX is equipped with an oil pan guard. This protective feature minimizes the risk of oil pan damage from impacts with underfloor obstacles encountered during off-road adventures.
On-Road Performance: Lexus Driving Signature Refinement
The Lexus LX 600’s on-road performance is further elevated by the Lexus Driving Signature philosophy. The combination of the high-output twin-turbocharged engine, Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB), and Electric Power Steering (EPS) delivers a driving experience characterized by seamless transitions between deceleration, steering, and acceleration in all driving situations. The Active Height Control (AHC) system and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) further enhance grip, traction, and control, instilling a sense of confidence and security behind the wheel of the Lexus LX.
Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
The AHC suspension system in the Lexus LX allows for adjustable ride height to suit various driving environments. It offers a range of ride height positions, utilizing shock absorbers, gas and hydraulic springs, and metal springs. A spring rate switching device for the rear wheels reduces ride height adjustment time. Three on-road height settings (Normal, Hi1, and Hi2) and a Low setting for entry and exit are available.
Alt text: Lexus LX 600 AHC system adjusting vehicle height for different driving conditions.
The system intelligently adjusts vehicle height based on Drive Mode Select or Multi-Terrain Select settings and transfer case status. Ride height information is displayed on both the gauge panel and the 7-inch touch display. Beyond height adjustment, AHC responds to vehicle posture changes like pitch and roll, optimizing spring rates to stabilize the Lexus LX during cornering, acceleration, and deceleration.
In coordination with the transfer case (L4 range) or Multi-Terrain Select mode, the suspension automatically adjusts to Hi1 or Hi2 based on road conditions. At higher speeds in Hi1 or Hi2, the system lowers the vehicle to prevent road interference and enhance handling stability.
Spring rates are softened for a comfortable ride over urban bumps and stiffened for a flat, stable ride through curves. The automatic height adjustment also lowers the Lexus LX when stationary for easier passenger access.
The linear solenoid valve system in the AVS provides rapid damping force switching, enabling precise and smooth control based on road surface and driving conditions. This contributes to the refined ride quality of the Lexus LX.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB)
The EPS system in the Lexus LX replaces traditional hydraulic systems with a motor and reduction gear. This allows for fine-tuning and provides light steering feel at low speeds, beneficial for off-road driving, and a more substantial feel at higher speeds. The vehicle responds faithfully and linearly to steering inputs. The light steering at low speeds reduces driver fatigue, while the moderate steering force at higher speeds aligns with the Lexus Driving Signature.
The Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system uses a sensor to detect brake pedal input and applies hydraulic braking force for more linear braking characteristics in the Lexus LX. When Multi-Terrain Select is engaged for off-road driving, the system ensures high driving stability through precise braking control to mitigate wheel slip or spin.
Wheel, Tire, and Rear Torsen® Limited Slip Differential (LSD) Performance
The Lexus LX 600 offers 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, the largest in the Lexus lineup, enhancing both off-road capability and on-road performance.
The F SPORT grade of the Lexus LX features a Torsen® LSD to optimize rear tire traction. During cornering acceleration, it distributes driving force between rear wheels based on load, enhancing control. In straight-line driving, it adapts to road changes, promoting stability.
Heritage of Capability: Maintaining Core Strengths
The Lexus LX retains the golden ratio 2,850 mm (112 in.) wheelbase from the first generation (1995), ensuring both off-road prowess and interior spaciousness. Approach, departure, and ramp break angles, a 44-degree maximum stable inclination angle, a 45-degree climbing ability, and a 700 mm (27.5 in.) maximum river crossing depth are all maintained from the previous model, reinforcing the Lexus LX‘s legendary off-road heritage.
19.3-Inches of Screen Access: Intuitive Information at a Glance
The instrument panel of the Lexus LX features a 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen designed for clear information without driver distraction. The upper screen displays navigation, audio, and the Multi-Terrain Monitor (off-road). The lower 7-inch touch display manages climate control and serves as a driving-support screen for Multi-Terrain Select. Simultaneous display of camera views on the upper screen and real-time vehicle status on the lower screen allows drivers to monitor off-road conditions without display switching in the Lexus LX.
Alt text: Lexus LX 600 interior dual screens displaying navigation and vehicle status information.
Evolved Multi-Terrain Select (MTS)
The Lexus LX features Multi-Terrain Select with six modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock. This system optimizes drive power, suspension, and braking for selected conditions. “Auto” mode uses sensor data to estimate road conditions and automatically optimize settings, allowing drivers to maintain ideal performance across varied terrains without manual mode switching in the Lexus LX.
Multi-Terrain Select operates in both low (L4) and high (H4) ranges.
Crawl Control
Engaged in low range, Crawl Control in the Lexus LX manages engine output and hydraulic braking to minimize tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior at low speeds (five driver-selectable settings: LO, MIDL, MID, MIDH, and HIGH).
Downhill Assist Control
Downhill Assist Control automatically manages hydraulic brake pressure on all four wheels to ensure stable descent on steep slopes without wheel lockup in the Lexus LX. Drivers can concentrate on steering, as the system maintains a selected vehicle speed.
Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM)
The Multi-Terrain Monitor uses four cameras to provide drivers with comprehensive views around the Lexus LX. Front, side, and rear camera images can be displayed on the 12.3-inch screen, aiding visibility in blind spots.
Back Underfloor View uses pre-captured foreground images to create transparent-underfloor views, helping drivers check underfloor conditions and front-wheel position. Another view makes the vehicle transparent and magnifies the area around the rear wheels, aiding in obstacle distance estimation and rear wheel condition assessment in the Lexus LX.
Ultra Luxury and F SPORT Grades: Tailored Experiences
Ultra Luxury: Redefining Rear Passenger Experience
The four-seat Ultra Luxury grade of the Lexus LX prioritizes rear passenger comfort. The front seat can move forward, and rear seat recline reaches 48 degrees, maximizing relaxation. The rear seat display behind the front passenger seat can fold down for forward visibility, creating a VIP seating experience with up to 1,100 mm (43 in.) of legroom in the Lexus LX. A single rear control panel button activates this posture. A footrest extends from behind the front passenger seat for full-body comfort.
Alt text: Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury interior showcasing spacious rear seating and premium comfort features.
Ultra Luxury rear seats feature curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions that gently cradle the head, hips, and lower body. VIP seating helps mitigate lateral G-forces and road irregularities. Soft urethane with vibration absorption minimizes unwanted movement, even during off-road driving in the Lexus LX.
Standard comfort features include side and quarter window sunshades, reading lights, and a rear seat display. An Ultra Luxury-exclusive air conditioning system includes overhead ceiling vents for a full-body comfort breeze.
The rear control panel in the Lexus LX Ultra Luxury grade manages all rear passenger functions intuitively. The wireless charging space is lowered for visibility when reclined. Cup holders have lids, and the scratch-resistant, self-healing lid surface functions as a note table. A large console box, DC power supply, USB, and headphone jacks add functionality.
F SPORT Handling: Sportier Dynamics and Design
The F SPORT Handling grade of the Lexus LX offers a sportier aesthetic and driving experience.
Exterior styling includes exclusive 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and an F mesh spindle grille with a jet-black chrome frame. Inside, the steering wheel and shifter are wrapped in textured genuine leather, and F SPORT emblems are present throughout the Lexus LX. Custom F-designed seats enhance lateral G-force support. Ultra White exterior with Circuit Red interior is exclusive to the F SPORT Handling grade.
Driving performance enhancements for the Lexus LX F SPORT Handling include uniquely tuned front and rear performance dampers, a Torsen® LSD, and a rear stabilizer. EPS and AVS are specially tuned for focused response and handling.
Next-Generation Design: Function and Aesthetics Harmonized
The Lexus LX 600’s interior and exterior design blends superior function with striking aesthetics. A-pillars are pulled rearward for a cab-backward design, and a robust torso and 22-inch wheels create a dynamic image. The spindle grille features a three-dimensional shape with seven floating bar sets, creating a seamless, frame-free structure. Millimeter-precise bar thickness tuning achieves both a new look and essential cooling for the twin-turbo engine. Large side radiator grille openings enhance cooling and airflow rectification.
Alt text: Front view of Lexus LX 600 exterior emphasizing the signature spindle grille and headlight design.
L-shaped clearance lamps (with daytime running lights) have a three-dimensional shape and doubled inner lenses with varying levels for depth and changing appearance.
The sides convey unity and mass with a horizontal torso extending to muscular rear wheel arches. Quarter pillars narrow from the roof to the rear window, and a chiseled flow runs from the rocker panels to behind the rear tires on the Lexus LX.
The redesigned rear LEXUS logo symbolizes Lexus’s next generation. Rear combination lamps combine an L-shape and continuous axial flow from front to rear silhouette.
LEXUS INTERFACE: Intuitive and Connected Multimedia
The North American-developed Lexus Interface in the Lexus LX provides seamless connectivity and navigation. The 12.3-inch upper touchscreen and LX-exclusive 7-inch lower touchscreen offer intuitive technology. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhances user interaction through sight, touch, and voice.
Lexus Interface incorporates a human-centered Voice Assistant. Dual microphones with speaker location and noise cancellation enable voice commands for navigation, media, phone, and vehicle settings in the Lexus LX.
Lexus Interface offers an intuitive smartphone-like experience. The User Profile feature stores personalized settings in the cloud, accessible in other Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles via the Lexus App, Bluetooth®, smart key, or manual login.
The native navigation system is cloud-based with integrated Google Points of Interest, providing faster, more accurate directions and mapping in the Lexus LX. Over-the-air (OTA) updates provide real-time map and media updates. Offline mode downloads maps and services in low-connectivity areas.
LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+ 2.5
The Lexus LX 600 comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including active safety features. Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian Detection, and Bicyclist Detection has enhanced lens camera and millimeter-wave radar for expanded range. At intersections, it can recognize oncoming vehicles during left turns or pedestrians during left/right turns, activating PCS functions if needed. Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) aids steering within the lane as prompted by the driver in the Lexus LX.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) activates above 30 mph, managing vehicle-to-vehicle distance down to 0 mph and resuming from stops. DRCC includes smooth overtaking: signaling to change lanes initiates acceleration, and after lane change, the vehicle returns to preset speed in the Lexus LX.
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) alerts drivers to unintended lane departures above 32 mph via steering wheel vibrations or audible alerts. It can provide minor steering corrections to maintain lane position. Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) (when DRCC is engaged) provides slight steering force to keep the vehicle centered in the lane using lane markers or preceding vehicles in the Lexus LX. LTA alerts drivers with visual and audible warnings or steering wheel vibrations.
Additional Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 features include Intelligent High Beams and Road Sign Assist (RSA), which displays road sign information on the multi-information display (MID) in the Lexus LX.
The 2023 Lexus LX 600 is available for sale since the end of 2022, offering a continued legacy of luxury, performance, and unparalleled capability.
Updated July 28, 2023.
