The Lexus LX has long stood as a paragon of luxury and capability in the SUV market. For the 2023 model year, the Lexus Lx600 continues to build on its reputation, introducing a suite of customer-focused updates that further refine this flagship vehicle. Since its inception in 1995, the LX has carved out a unique identity, seamlessly blending opulent comfort with rugged off-road prowess, making it a global icon across more than 50 countries.
At the heart of the Lexus LX600 lies a potent 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, engineered for both high output and robust torque. Complementing this powerful engine is an Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system and Electric Power Steering (EPS), working in harmony to provide refined vehicle control whether navigating city streets or tackling challenging terrains.
Stepping inside the Lexus LX600 reveals a sanctuary of comfort and intuitive design. The instrument panel is dominated by the Lexus Interface, featuring a dual-display configuration. A 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen work in tandem to offer a wealth of information and control, enhancing the overall driving experience. The cabin ambiance can be tailored with five interior color options: Palomino, White/Peppercorn, Circuit Red, Black, and the newly available Sunflare.
The exterior design of the Lexus LX600 strikes a balance between athletic dynamism and functional elegance, a design ethos first seen in the 2022 NX. The LX boasts optimized proportions that convey both sophistication and a commanding presence on the road. Prospective owners can choose from seven exterior colors, including Eminent White Pearl, Atomic Pearl, Manganese Luster, Nori Green Pearl, Caviar, Ultra White (exclusive to F SPORT Handling), and Black Onyx (exclusive to F SPORT Handling). Eminent White Pearl and Manganese Luster are available for an additional premium paint fee.
Key Technical Enhancements of the Lexus LX600
GA-F Platform: Foundation for Superior Ride and Handling
The 2023 Lexus LX600 retains the robust GA-F platform introduced in the previous model year. This platform is instrumental in enhancing body rigidity, leading to a smoother, more composed ride and a heightened level of comfort that aligns with the Lexus Driving Signature. The GA-F platform ensures predictable and balanced handling during various driving maneuvers, including cornering, acceleration, and deceleration, while also improving stability in off-road conditions.
To achieve both exceptional off-road capability and refined on-road handling, the Lexus LX600 employs a front high-mounted double wishbone suspension. Optimized suspension geometry and coil springs contribute to excellent vehicle stability and ride comfort. The suspension stroke, critical for off-road performance, is generously sized with 100 mm (3.93 inches) of bound and 145 mm (5.7 inches) of rebound. This design allows the Lexus LX600 to confidently navigate diverse terrains while maintaining passenger comfort.
Power and Performance: Twin-Turbo V6 and Direct Shift-10AT
Powering the Lexus LX600 is a 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine (V35A-FTS engine) that delivers an impressive 409 horsepower (415 PS) and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is engineered to maintain peak torque across a broad rev range, extending up to approximately 3,600 rpm. This characteristic enhances drivability in both everyday on-road scenarios and demanding off-road situations that often require low-speed power.
The Direct Shift-10AT automatic transmission in the Lexus LX600 provides a smooth and refined driving experience. It leverages a torque converter for smooth starts while offering the direct acceleration feel of a manual transmission by engaging lockup across almost the entire operating range, except during initial vehicle start-up. The transmission’s close-ratio gear spacing and rapid shift times result in crisp gear changes, creating a driving rhythm that harmonizes with the engine’s sound. The wide gear ratio range ensures both comfortable starts and efficient high-speed cruising. The low first gear enhances starting force at low speeds, facilitating smooth starts and potent low-speed off-road performance.
For added durability in off-road environments, the Lexus LX600 transmission is equipped with an oil pan guard. This protective feature minimizes the risk of damage to the oil pan from impacts that might occur when traversing rocky terrain.
Lexus Driving Signature: On-Road Dynamics
The Lexus LX600 further embodies the Lexus Driving Signature through the integration of its high-output twin-turbocharged engine, Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB), and Electric Power Steering (EPS). These systems work synergistically to deliver a driving experience characterized by seamless transitions between deceleration, steering, and acceleration in all driving conditions. The inclusion of the Active Height Control (AHC) system and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) further enhances grip, traction, and control, instilling a sense of confidence and security behind the wheel.
Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
The Active Height Control (AHC) suspension system in the Lexus LX600 allows for ride height adjustments based on the driving environment. It offers a range of ride height positions, utilizing shock absorbers, gas and hydraulic springs, and metal springs. A spring rate switching device on the rear wheels reduces the time needed for ride height adjustments. The system provides three on-road height settings (Normal, Hi1, and Hi2) and a Low setting for easier entry and exit.
The Lexus LX600 automatically adjusts vehicle height in response to Drive Mode Select or Multi-Terrain Select settings and the transfer case status. Ride height information is displayed on both the gauge panel and the 7-inch touch display. Beyond height adjustments, AHC also responds to changes in vehicle posture, such as pitch and roll, optimizing spring rates to stabilize the vehicle during cornering, acceleration, and braking.
In coordination with the transfer case in L4 range or Multi-Terrain Select mode, the suspension automatically adjusts to Hi1 or Hi2 based on road conditions. When Hi1 or Hi2 is engaged, the system automatically lowers the vehicle height at higher speeds to minimize road interference and enhance handling stability. The suspension tuning adapts to driving scenarios – softening for a comfortable ride over city bumps and stiffening for a stable, flat ride during cornering. The automatic vehicle lowering at standstill further improves passenger accessibility.
The adoption of a linear solenoid valve system in the AVS provides rapid damping force switching, enabling refined and smooth control across various road surfaces and driving conditions.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB)
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the Lexus LX600 replaces traditional hydraulic systems with a motor and reduction gear. This allows for precise steering tuning, providing light steering feel at low speeds, beneficial for off-road maneuvering, and increased steering weight at higher speeds. The vehicle responds faithfully and linearly to steering inputs. The light low-speed steering reduces driver fatigue, while the speed-sensitive steering force enhances the Lexus Driving Signature experience at higher speeds.
The Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system in the Lexus LX600 utilizes a sensor to detect brake pedal input and modulates hydraulic brake force for more linear braking characteristics. When Multi-Terrain Select is active for off-road driving, the ECB system ensures high driving stability through precise braking control to mitigate wheel slip or spin.
Wheels, Tires, and Rear Torsen® Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
The Lexus LX600 offers 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, the largest in the Lexus lineup, enhancing both off-road capability and on-road performance.
Exclusively on the F SPORT grade, a Torsen® Limited Slip Differential (LSD) is employed to optimize rear tire traction. During cornering acceleration, the Torsen® LSD distributes driving force optimally between the rear wheels based on load, achieving a high level of control. In straight-line driving, it reacts effectively to road condition changes, contributing to overall stability.
Heritage and Innovation in Design and Technology
Inheritance of Heritage
The Lexus LX600 proudly maintains the 2,850 mm/112-inch wheelbase, a golden ratio carried over from the first generation in 1995. This wheelbase ensures both exceptional rough terrain performance and a spacious interior. The ground obstacle angles (approach angle, departure angle, and ramp break angle), a maximum stable inclination angle of 44 degrees, a climbing ability of 45 degrees, and a maximum river crossing performance of 700 mm/27.5 inches are all retained from the previous model, underscoring its enduring off-road pedigree.
Advanced Display and Multi-Terrain Select
The instrument panel of the Lexus LX600 features a driver-centric design with a 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen, providing information without distraction. The upper screen displays navigation, audio controls, and the Multi-Terrain Monitor during off-road driving. The lower 7-inch touch display is dedicated to climate control and serves as a driving-support screen for Multi-Terrain Select. This dual-screen setup allows drivers to monitor camera views and real-time vehicle status simultaneously during off-road adventures.
The Lexus LX600 is equipped with an evolved Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system, offering six modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock. This system integrates and controls drive power and suspension in addition to conventional brake hydraulics, optimizing performance for the selected terrain. The Auto mode intelligently estimates road conditions using sensor data and optimizes brake pressure, driving force, and suspension control, allowing drivers to maintain ideal performance across varying conditions without manual mode switching. The Multi-Terrain Select system operates in both low range (L4) and high range (H4).
Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control
Crawl Control, engaged in low range, enables the Lexus LX600 to move forward or reverse at one of five driver-selectable low-speed settings (LO, MIDL, MID, MIDH, and HIGH). Crawl Control manages engine output and hydraulic braking to minimize tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior.
Downhill Assist Control automatically regulates hydraulic brake pressure on all four wheels during steep descents, ensuring stable downhill progress without wheel lockup. The driver can maintain a selected vehicle speed, focusing on steering without needing to manage braking or acceleration.
Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM)
The Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) system in the Lexus LX600 utilizes four cameras to provide comprehensive visibility around the vehicle. Camera views from the front, sides, and rear can be displayed on the 12.3-inch screen, helping drivers assess road conditions in blind spots.
The Back Underfloor View provides pre-captured foreground images, presented as transparent underfloor views. Overlaying vehicle and wheel position on this image allows drivers to check underfloor conditions and front-wheel placement. Another view mode makes the vehicle appear transparent, magnifying the area around the rear wheels to aid in obstacle assessment and distance estimation.
Ultra Luxury and F SPORT Handling Grades
Ultra Luxury Grade: Redefining Rear Passenger Experience
The four-seat Ultra Luxury grade of the Lexus LX600 prioritizes rear passenger comfort and experience. The front passenger seat can move forward, and rear seat recline angle can reach up to 48 degrees, maximizing relaxation. The rear seat display behind the front passenger seat can fold down for forward visibility, creating an airy VIP seating experience with up to 1,100 mm/43 inches of legroom. A single button press on the rear control panel activates this seating posture. A deployable footrest behind the front passenger seat further enhances comfort.
Ultra Luxury-exclusive curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions gently cradle occupants, mitigating lateral G-forces and road surface irregularities. The seats are designed to maintain secure posture, and soft urethane with superior vibration absorption minimizes unwanted movement, even during off-road driving. Standard comfort features include side and quarter window sunshades, reading lights, and a rear seat display. An Ultra Luxury-exclusive air conditioning system features overhead ceiling vents for a full-body comfort breeze.
The rear control panel centrally manages all rear passenger functions. The wireless charging space is positioned low for visibility in reclined seating positions. Cup holders have lids, creating a scratch-resistant self-healing surface when closed, usable as a note table. A large console box offers ample storage, with DC power supply, USB, and headphone jacks for added functionality.
F SPORT Handling Grade: Sportier Dynamics and Style
For those seeking a sportier Lexus LX600, the F SPORT Handling grade delivers unique design elements and enhanced handling.
F SPORT Handling styling cues include exclusive 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and an F mesh design spindle grille with a jet-black chrome grille frame. The steering wheel and shifter are wrapped in textured genuine leather, and F SPORT emblems are featured throughout the interior. 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 for the F SPORT Handling grade is enhanced by uniquely tuned front and rear performance dampers, a Torsen® LSD, and a rear stabilizer. EPS and AVS are specially tuned for performance-focused response and handling.
Next-Generation Design and Lexus Interface
Striking Exterior and Interior Design
The Lexus LX600 design blends functionality and aesthetics. A-pillars are pulled rearward for a cab-backward profile, and a robust torso and 22-inch wheels convey dynamic driving intent. The spindle grille features a three-dimensional structure of seven floating bars, optimized for cooling performance of the twin-turbo engine. Large side radiator grille openings also enhance cooling and airflow rectification.
L-shaped clearance lamps with daytime running light function feature a three-dimensional design with doubled inner lenses for depth and visual interest. The side profile emphasizes unity and mass with a horizontal torso flowing into muscular rear wheel arches. Quarter pillars narrow towards the rear window, and a chiseled flow from the rocker panels extends behind the rear tires.
The redesigned rear LEXUS logo signifies the next Lexus generation. Rear combination lamps feature an L-shape and continuous axial flow from front to rear.
Lexus Interface: Intuitive Connectivity
The North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system in the Lexus LX600 provides seamless connectivity. 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, speaker location capability, and enhanced noise cancellation enable voice-first interaction for navigation, media, phone, and vehicle settings.
Lexus Interface User Profiles allow drivers to save personalized settings in the cloud, accessible in other Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles via Bluetooth® device, 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. Over-the-air (OTA) updates deliver real-time map updates and enriched media experiences. Offline mode ensures navigation availability in areas with limited connectivity by pre-downloading relevant maps and services.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5
The Lexus LX600 comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a suite of active safety features. The Pre-Collision System (PCS) includes Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian Detection, and Bicyclist Detection, with enhanced lens camera and millimeter-wave radar range. At intersections, the system can recognize oncoming vehicles during left turns or pedestrians during left/right turns, activating PCS functions as needed. Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) aids steering within the vehicle’s lane when driver-initiated.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) operates above 30 mph, managing vehicle-to-vehicle distance down to 0 mph and resuming from a stop. DRCC includes smooth overtaking assistance. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) alerts drivers to lane departures above 32 mph and provides corrective steering. Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), when DRCC is engaged, provides slight steering force to keep the vehicle centered in the lane.
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).
The 2023 Lexus LX600 is available for sale starting at the end of 2022.
Updated July 28, 2023.
