The All-New 2022 Lexus LX600

The Lexus LX 600 is all-new for 2022, a model based on Toyota’s large truck architecture. The LX is the Lexus version of the Toyota Land Cruiser, a model that is no longer sold in the U.S. but is still offered in select global markets. Therefore, the LX has the distinction of replacing the Land Cruiser while upholding the Lexus banner.

For 2022, Lexus offers the LX 600 in five trims –LX 600 $88,245; Premium $96,345; F Sport $102,345; Luxury $104,345; and Ultra Luxury $127,345. Add $1,075 for the destination charge. Every model comes with standard four-wheel drive, a turbocharged V6 engine, and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Highlights of the Fourth-Generation Lexus LX

Lexus introduced the LX in 1995, calling it the LX 450. In subsequent generations, just as it did when it initially launched, the name changed to the LX 470, then the LX 570, respectively. In all three examples, the numerical designation represented the engine size. For example, the 570 matches the 5.7-liter V8 engine that powered the third-generation LX.

For 2022, Lexus calls the model the 600. This time, though, the number has nothing to do with the engine displacement. Indeed, a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 powers the current model. But it is also the most powerful LX engine to date, therefore the greater nomenclature seems justified.

Exterior Highlights

Lexus’ huge spindle grille carries forward with the latest model. In most trims, it features a multi-slat metallic design. In the F Sport, the grille is blacked out. We like the blacked-out look the best.

Everything about the Lexus LX accentuates its size, from the broad front fascia to the sculpted hood with its central valley. A high beltline with a kinked-up rear, massive wheel wells, and handsome wraparound rear lights marks this model.

Lexus dresses the LX with full LED lighting, front and back. The LX has standard 20-inch wheels or available 18-inch wheels with the Appearance Package. From the F Sport grade on up, the LX has 22-inch wheels. A power liftgate is included; a kick sensor is available.

Other features available include illuminated door sills, a rear stabilizer bar, performance dampers, and a height-adjustable suspension system. F Sport embellishments are included with, you guessed it, the F Sport grade.

Interior Highlights

The 2022 Lexus LX seats up to seven people across three rows. The standard model features two rows of seats, while all others have three rows. The first two rows are quite comfortable, while the accommodations in the third row are downright tight.

The storage space measures just 11 cubic feet behind the third row. This allows for grocery bags to sit side by side, but little else. With the third row folded, there are 46 cubic feet available. Behind the first row with the second- and third-row seats folded, there is 71 cubic feet of storage space.

Tech Features

You would expect a Lexus model to offer loads of tech features. The 2022 LX does not disappoint. Gone is the previous infotainment system scratch pad. In its place are upper and lower touchscreen displays for controlling the infotainment (12.3 inches, top) and the in-cabin (7 inches, bottom) systems.

The list of standard tech features includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. A 10-speaker audio system, four USB ports, and satellite radio are included. Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, and navigation round out the offerings.

Depending on the grade level and package chosen, Lexus supplies several upgrades, including a 25-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. Rear wireless device charging for the second row is available. Lexus also offers a rear entertainment system with a pair of 11.4-inch displays.

We are fans of Lexus styling as well as the materials used and attention to detail. The LX is a segment benchmark with its uncluttered interior, ample storage compartments, and exquisite interiors. For instance, our F Sport model features a two-tone interior with red and black trim. Stitched leather, metal pieces, and piano black trim accent the interior.

A leather interior comes standard as does a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. Full power accessories, including a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, a moonroof, and zoned climate control are included.

Moving up through the trim range extends the offerings accordingly. Features such as semi-aniline leather seats, heated and ventilated second-row seats, and a wood-trimmed steering wheel are included. Ambient lighting and a power-folding third-row seat are options. Move up to the Ultra Luxury trim and this one offers just four seats with quilted leather, reclining and massaging rear seats, power-adjustable footrests, and a rear-center armrest and table.

Safety Equipment

Lexus, along with Toyota, remains a leader in all matters of safety. A long list of standard driver-assist tech accompanies every trim.

These features include forward collision warning with forward automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. Lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and lane trace assist, are standard. Automatic high beams, traffic sign recognition, and a surround-view camera system are included. The Lexus LX also comes with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Front and rear parking sensors are standard.

There are only two optional features. These are a head-up display and a rearview mirror camera.

Engine, Transmission, and Drivetrain

You can no longer find a Toyota or Lexus product with a V8 unless it is the Lexus LC sports car. There is a replacement for displacement, in this case boosting. Specifically, the LX 600 comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Power routes to all four wheels utilizing a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Through turbocharging, the V6 is more powerful than the previous V8 which produces 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels.

On the Road

The Lexus LX has long lived within the Toyota Land Cruiser’s shadow. Typically, it is the other way around when it comes to mainstream and luxury models, but the Land Cruiser has been around decades longer than its Lexus sibling.

Lexus does not try to match the Toyota in off-road credibility, but it holds its own. Clearly, the LX is designed to be seen around town and enjoyed on city streets. Still, with standard four-wheel drive and a mode selector, it can handle off-road conditions just fine. Also, Lexus equips this model with crawl control, a feature we’ve experienced several times with Toyota products, including the Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia.

It is a great way to climb and ascend challenging terrain, enabling users to travel as much as 5 mph while controlling the steering wheel only. It is a terrific way of playing with this SUV and underscores its capabilities. Nevertheless, we are cautious when taking any large SUV off-roading. Without brush guards and other assorted protection regalia, the LX is vulnerable to dings and scratches.

On the road, the new engine spools quickly. Abundant power is always on tap, with excellent step-off acceleration and passing power at the ready. The transmission shifts smoothly, working mostly unnoticeable. The V8 is hardly missed as this Lexus moves forward quickly, in comfort, and with decent handling.

Competitive Set

The full-size luxury SUV segment is a small one that is dominated by the Cadillac Escalade. Other models include the Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz GLS, Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX80, and the BMW X7. Pricewise, the Infiniti and Lincoln start lower, but all models approach or top six figures at the high end.

Lexus LX 600 Considerations

Most definitely, the Lexus LX 600 is an expensive SUV. One of our competitors answered their question, “Should I Buy the Lexus LX?” by telling its readers that they shouldn’t. Unfortunately, that assessment is based on price alone, without considering the significance of the nameplate. We realize cost is a factor for some, but for those individuals considering the competition, its cost is nearly the same. Besides, Lexus carries copious amounts of cachet. Indeed, there is something with the name that matters.

As for our recommendation, we would consider the Premium grade for its adaptive suspension, advanced technologies, and comfort features, including the heated steering wheel. For an additional $2,670, shoppers can choose the 25-speaker Mark Levinson audio package. All told, the out-the-door price would come to around $100,000. Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and BMW are among the brands with similarly priced SUVs.

2022 Lexus LX Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — The Current-Generation Lexus RX Closes Out in Style

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