New Lexus LX a luxurious beast boasting V6 power

The Lexus LX has long been a luxury SUV icon distinguished by an indomitable duality.

On the one hand, its comfortable ride quality and long list of luxury amenities have defined it as the ultimate long-range cruiser, while on the other hand, its tried-and-tested off-road specifications and equipment have taken it far beyond the pavement in more than 50 countries around the globe.

For its fourth generation, however, Lexus has upped the ante even more by endowing the new LX with unparalleled refinement, thanks to a full optimisation of nearly every component and the integration of state-of-the-art human-centered technology.

It adopts an all-new 20% more rigid GA-F platform, which serves as a robust foundation for its body-on-frame build alongside two brand-new twin-turbo petrol and diesel powertrains.

Weight is reduced by a staggering 200kg when compared to its predecessor, despite the enhanced body rigidity. And it’s all competently packaged in a radical, almost brutalist design.

V6 power

The Lexus LX 600 is powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with a twin turbocharger.

In terms of power and torque, it marks an increase in the performance of the previous 5.7-litre V8 engine, developing 305kW at 5200rpm and peak torque of 650Nm from 2000 to 3600rpm.

The twin-turbo system helps secure a flat torque curve, giving extra boost at low engine speeds and easily controllable power when travelling off-road.

The diesel V6 engine in the new LX 500d uses a two-way turbocharger and low-flow combustion technology to achieve higher output and performance than the previous V8 unit, with a maximum of 225kW and 700Nm of torque.

Both engines use a new 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. Lexus says the gearbox is designed with close gears for rhythmical shifting, while the wide ratio range supports both power and fuel efficiency.

Across-the-range features

Every Lexus LX includes a suite of advanced infotainment technologies featuring two central screens – a 12.3-inch touch display and 7.0-inch display – complemented by a driver display and a colour head-up display (HUD).

Voice control with “Hey Lexus!” natural speech recognition is another standard feature, as is a DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and wireless smartphone charging.

A first to debut on Lexus is the fingerprint identification for the ignition – up to 10 fingerprints can be registered to authorise engine start.

In terms of spec, the list is endless but a few highlights include four-zone climate control, leather-accented seats with Shimamoku wood ornamentation, 10-way driver and 4-way front passenger seat power adjustment, as well as heated/ventilated front seats.

A 25-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System – the most comprehensive in any Lexus – is the symbolic cherry on the cake.

A trailer wiring harness with towing hitch is fitted to all grades, helping to make the most of the LX’s effortless 3500kg braked towing capacity.

Only the petrol LX 600 model comes standard with seven seats.