Redesigned for the 2022 model year, the Lx 600 continues to solidify its position as Lexus’ flagship SUV, receiving thoughtful updates for the 2023 model year that further enhance its appeal to discerning drivers. Since its inception in 1995, the Lexus LX has carved a unique niche, embodying a compelling duality: it’s both a supremely comfortable and amenity-rich long-distance cruiser and a rugged, highly capable off-road vehicle, proven in over 50 countries globally. The 2023 enhancements build upon this established success, focusing on customer feedback and further refining the LX 600 experience.
Powering the LX 600 is a potent 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, delivering a harmonious blend of high output and robust torque. This advanced powertrain is complemented by sophisticated vehicle control systems, including an Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system and Electric Power Steering (EPS), ensuring confident and refined handling both on paved roads and challenging terrains.
Stepping inside the LX 600 reveals a meticulously crafted cabin, prioritizing passenger comfort and intuitive usability. The instrument panel is a centerpiece of modern design, featuring the Lexus Interface with a dual-display configuration. A prominent 12.3-inch upper screen works in concert with a 7-inch lower screen, offering a customizable and user-friendly interface for navigation, entertainment, climate controls, and vehicle settings.
The LX 600 offers a curated palette of five interior color options, allowing owners to personalize their space: Palomino, White/Peppercorn, Circuit Red, Black, and the sophisticated Sunflare.
Externally, the LX 600’s design language strikes a balance between athletic dynamism, practical functionality, and undeniable visual appeal, a design ethos first seen in the 2022 NX. The LX’s proportions are carefully optimized to project an image of both refined sophistication and powerful presence.
For exterior choices, the LX 600 is available in seven distinctive colors: 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).
*Premium paint option available for an additional fee.
Key Technical Features of the Lexus LX 600
GA-F Platform: Foundation for Superior Ride and Handling
The 2023 LX 600 continues to utilize the robust GA-F platform, introduced in the previous model year. This platform is instrumental in enhancing body rigidity, a key factor in achieving the Lexus Driving Signature – characterized by smooth composure and exceptional ride comfort. The GA-F platform contributes to the LX 600’s predictable and balanced handling during various driving maneuvers, including turning, acceleration, and deceleration, and significantly improves stability when venturing off-road.
To achieve both remarkable off-road capability and refined on-road handling, the LX 600 employs a front high-mounted double-wishbone suspension. Optimized suspension geometry and coil springs further contribute to vehicle stability and ride comfort. Crucially for off-road prowess, the suspension stroke is generously long, with 100 mm (3.93 in.) of bound and 145 mm (5.7 in.) of rebound, enabling exceptional performance across diverse terrains.
Power and Linearity: Twin-Turbo V6 Engine and Direct Shift-10AT
At the heart of the LX 600 lies a 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine (V35A-FTS). This powerhouse generates 409 horsepower (415 PS) and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is engineered to maintain peak torque across a broad rev range, up to approximately 3,600 rpm, resulting in enhanced responsiveness and control in both everyday driving and demanding off-road situations where low-speed maneuverability is paramount.
Alt text: Close-up view of the powerful twin-turbo V6 engine of the Lexus LX 600, showcasing its advanced engineering and performance capabilities.
The Direct Shift-10AT automatic transmission provides a smooth and refined start, characteristic of a torque converter, while also delivering a direct acceleration feel akin to a manual transmission. This is achieved through lockup activation across nearly the entire operating range, except during initial start-up. The transmission’s cross gear ratio setting, with closely spaced gear ratios, and rapid gear shift times contribute to crisp and rhythmic gear changes, harmonizing with the engine’s sound and performance.
A wide range of gear ratios ensures both comfortable starts and efficient high-speed cruising. The low first gear enhances driving force at lower speeds, enabling smooth starts and robust low-speed off-road performance.
For added durability in off-road environments, the automatic transmission is equipped with an oil pan guard, designed to minimize the risk of damage from impacts to the underfloor when navigating rocky terrain.
On-Road Performance: Lexus Driving Signature
The LX 600‘s on-road performance is further elevated by the Lexus Driving Signature, achieved through the seamless integration of the high-output twin-turbocharged engine, Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, and Electric Power Steering (EPS). This combination delivers a driving experience characterized by smooth transitions between deceleration, steering, and acceleration in all driving scenarios. Furthermore, the Active Height Control (AHC) system and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) work in concert to enhance grip, traction, and control, providing a sense of confidence and security behind the wheel.
Active Height Control (AHC) Suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
The AHC suspension system allows for adaptable ride height adjustment based on driving conditions. It offers a range of ride height positions: Normal, Hi1, and Hi2 for driving, and a Low setting for easier entry and exit. Ride height adjustments are managed through shock absorbers, gas and hydraulic springs, and metal springs. Rear wheels also incorporate a spring rate switching device, accelerating ride height adjustments.
The system intelligently adjusts vehicle height based on the selected Drive Mode Select or Multi-Terrain Select modes and the 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 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 depending on the road conditions. At higher speeds in Hi1 or Hi2, the system lowers the vehicle height to mitigate road surface interference and enhance handling stability.
The suspension tuning adapts to driving scenarios – softening for a comfortable ride over city bumps and stiffening for stability during cornering. The automatic vehicle height adjustment, lowering when stationary, further enhances passenger convenience.
The adoption of a linear solenoid valve system in the AVS provides rapid damping force switching, enabling nuanced and smooth control tailored to road surfaces and driving dynamics.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB)
The EPS system replaces traditional hydraulic steering with a motor and reduction gear, enabling precise steering tuning. It delivers light steering feel at low speeds, beneficial for off-road maneuvering, and progressively firms up at higher speeds for enhanced stability. The vehicle responds faithfully and linearly to steering inputs, contributing to a refined driving experience in line with the Lexus Driving Signature.
The Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system utilizes a sensor to detect brake pedal input, applying hydraulic braking force for more linear braking characteristics. In off-road driving scenarios with Multi-Terrain Select engaged, the system is engineered to maintain high driving stability through precise brake control, counteracting wheel slip or spin.
Wheels, Tires, and Rear Torsen® Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
The LX 600 offers 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, the largest in the Lexus lineup, which not only enhance its visual presence but also contribute to on-road performance.
Alt text: Close-up of the exclusive 22-inch forged aluminum wheels on the Lexus LX 600 F SPORT Handling grade, highlighting their sporty design and contribution to enhanced handling.
Exclusively on the F SPORT grade, a Torsen® LSD is employed to optimize rear tire traction. During cornering acceleration, it distributes driving force between the rear wheels based on load, achieving superior control. In straight-line driving, it responds effectively to road condition changes, enhancing overall stability.
Heritage Carried Forward
The LX 600 retains the 2,850 mm/112-inch wheelbase, a hallmark since the first generation in 1995, ensuring both exceptional off-road performance and a spacious cabin. Approach angle, departure angle, ramp break angle, maximum stable inclination angle (44 degrees), climbing ability (45 degrees), and maximum river crossing performance (700 mm/27.5 in.) remain consistent with the previous model, reinforcing its legendary off-road DNA.
Advanced Technology and Features
19.3-Inches of Screen Access
The instrument panel’s dual-screen setup features a 12.3-inch upper display and a 7-inch lower display, designed for information delivery without driver distraction. The upper screen handles navigation, audio controls, and the Multi-Terrain Monitor for off-road driving. The lower 7-inch touch display manages climate control and serves as a driving-support screen for Multi-Terrain Select. This dual-screen configuration allows drivers to view camera images on the upper screen while simultaneously monitoring real-time vehicle status on the lower screen, optimizing information access during off-road adventures.
Evolved Multi-Terrain Select (MTS)
The LX 600 is equipped with Multi-Terrain Select, offering six modes – Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock – to optimize performance across various off-road conditions. Beyond traditional brake hydraulics, MTS integrates and controls drive power and suspension settings based on the selected mode, tailoring driving performance to specific terrains.
MTS operates across both low range (L4) and high range (H4). The Auto mode utilizes sensor data to assess road conditions in real-time and automatically adjusts brake pressure, driving force, and suspension control. This intelligent system allows drivers to maintain optimal performance in diverse conditions without manually switching modes.
Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control
Crawl Control, engaged in low range, allows the LX 600 to move forward or backward at one of five driver-selectable low-speed settings (LO, MIDL, MID, MIDH, HIGH). It intuitively manages engine output and hydraulic braking to minimize tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior in challenging off-road situations.
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 chosen vehicle speed using a switch, focusing on steering without needing to manage braking and acceleration, reducing driver workload.
Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM)
The Multi-Terrain Monitor utilizes four cameras to provide comprehensive views around the vehicle. Camera feeds from the front, sides, and rear can be displayed on the 12.3-inch screen, enabling drivers to assess road conditions, particularly in blind spots.
The Back Underfloor View provides pre-captured foreground images, presented as transparent underfloor views, allowing drivers to visualize under-vehicle conditions and front wheel placement. Another view mode renders the vehicle transparent, magnifying the area around the rear wheels, aiding in obstacle assessment and distance estimation.
Ultra Luxury and F SPORT Grades: Tailored Experiences
Ultra Luxury Grade: Unparalleled Rear Passenger Experience
The four-seat Ultra Luxury grade elevates the LX 600 experience, prioritizing rear passenger comfort and amenities. The front passenger seat can move forward, and rear seat recline adjusts up to 48 degrees, maximizing rear space. The rear seat display behind the front passenger seat can fold down for forward visibility, creating an open VIP seating experience with up to 1,100 mm (43 inches) of legroom. This reclined seating posture is easily activated via a rear control panel button. A deployable footrest behind the front passenger seat enhances comfort from head to toe.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of the Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury grade, showcasing the spacious rear seating, reclining seats, and premium materials designed for ultimate passenger comfort.
Ultra Luxury-exclusive curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions gently cradle occupants, mitigating lateral G-forces and road irregularities. The seat design promotes secure posture, and soft urethane with superior vibration absorption minimizes unwanted movement, even during off-road driving.
Additional comfort features include side and quarter window sunshades, reading lights, and a rear seat entertainment 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, crafted for intuitive operation. The wireless charging space is lowered for visibility when reclined. Covered cup holders create a scratch-resistant, self-healing surface for use as a note table. A large console box provides ample storage, with DC power, USB, and headphone jacks for added convenience.
F SPORT Handling Grade: Sporty Dynamics and Design
For drivers seeking a sportier LX 600, the F SPORT Handling grade offers unique styling and enhanced handling dynamics.
F SPORT Handling styling cues include exclusive 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and an F mesh design spindle grille with a jet-black chrome frame. The interior features a textured genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter for enhanced grip and style, with F SPORT emblems throughout. Custom F-designed seats provide increased lateral support. Ultra White exterior with Circuit Red interior is an exclusive F SPORT Handling combination.
Performance enhancements for the F SPORT Handling grade include uniquely tuned front and rear performance dampers, a Torsen® LSD, and a rear stabilizer. Special EPS and AVS tuning delivers performance-focused response and handling exclusive to the F SPORT Handling grade.
Next-Generation Design and Lexus Interface
Next-Generation Design Language
The LX 600’s design merges functionality with aesthetic appeal. The A-pillars are pulled rearward for a cab-backward silhouette, while a robust torso and 22-inch wheels convey dynamic performance. The spindle grille features a three-dimensional structure of seven floating bars, creating a seamless, frame-free design. The grille’s bar thickness is precisely tuned for both visual appeal and optimal cooling for the twin-turbo engine. Large side radiator grille openings enhance cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.
L-shaped clearance lamps with daytime running light function feature a three-dimensional shape and doubled inner lenses for depth and visual interest from varying angles.
The profile showcases a strong sense of unity with a horizontal torso extending the vehicle’s length, blending into muscular rear wheel arches. The quarter pillars taper from roof to rear window, and a chiseled flow from the rocker panels extends to behind the rear tires.
The redesigned rear LEXUS logo signifies Lexus’s next generation. Rear combination lamps integrate L-shape elements and a continuous axial flow from front to rear silhouette.
Lexus Interface: Intuitive Connected Multimedia System
The North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system provides seamless connectivity and navigation. The LX 600 features a 12.3-inch upper touchscreen and an exclusive 7-inch lower touchscreen, offering intuitive technology. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhances user interaction through sight, touch, and voice, balancing accessibility.
Lexus Interface incorporates a human-centered Voice Assistant, designed as the primary interaction method. Dual microphones with speaker location capability and enhanced noise cancellation enable voice-first operation for navigation, media, phone, and vehicle settings.
Lexus Interface provides an intuitive user experience, compatible with smartphone integration. The Lexus Interface User Profile feature allows personalized settings to be stored in the cloud and accessible in other Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles via Bluetooth®, smart key, or manual login.
The native Lexus Interface navigation system prioritizes ease of use and functionality. Featuring 100% cloud capability and integrated Google Points of Interest, it delivers faster and more accurate directions and mapping. Over-the-air (OTA) updates provide real-time map updates and enriched media experiences. Native navigation is available online and offline, with offline mode proactively downloading maps and services in areas with low connectivity.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5
The LX 600 comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive suite of active safety features. The Pre-Collision System (PCS) includes Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian Detection, and Bicyclist Detection. Enhanced lens camera and millimeter-wave radar expand the response range. At intersections, the system can detect oncoming vehicles during left turns and pedestrians during left/right turns, activating PCS functions as needed. Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) aids steering within the lane when driver-initiated.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), active above 30 mph, manages vehicle-to-vehicle distance down to 0 mph and resumes from a stop. DRCC includes smooth overtaking assistance; signaling to change lanes initiates acceleration, and after lane change, the vehicle returns to the preset speed.
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) alerts the driver to unintended lane departures above 32 mph via steering wheel vibrations or audible alerts and provides minor steering corrections. Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), when DRCC is engaged, provides slight steering force to maintain lane centering using lane markers or preceding vehicles, alerting the driver visually, audibly, or via steering wheel vibration.
Additional Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 features include Intelligent High Beams, automatically switching between high and low beams based on preceding or oncoming vehicles, and Road Sign Assist (RSA), displaying road sign information on the multi-information display (MID) using camera and navigation data.
The 2023 LX 600 is set to go on sale by the end of 2022, continuing its legacy as a benchmark in luxury and capability.
Updated July 28, 2023.
