Auto review By Veeno Dewan
The Lexus LX 600 is the premium luxury brands full-size flagship SUV and has been given a proper makeover for 2022. Design wise this 5,600-pound behemoth remains a tall, wide, heavyweight cruiser with a few exterior changes. There are revisions to the front grille – now a larger more prominent chrome-clad affair. The new rear fascia along with big, flared wheel arches make the LX even more imposing in the flesh. The rear-end now has a full-length rear taillight with big “LEXUS” lettering – a signature tick that will appear in other Lexus vehicles as well.
The biggest changes are in the engine department and the interior. The previous generation big V8 engine is gone, now replaced by a 3.5 litre twin-turbo V6 shared with the Tundra pickup. With 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque it has an extra 76 lb-ft hike over the old V8 and can do the zero-100 km/h time dash in of around six seconds. The transmission is a ten- speed automatic unit linked to All- Wheel Drive and true off- road capability is offered, but why you would want to take a $100,000 plus premium luxury vehicle off -road is anyone’s guess!
As expected for this price point the LX comes fully loaded with big with 20-inch wheels and a super-plush interior to die for. There are a number of LX Models to choose from in Canada, the F Sport Series 1 ($119,950), Luxury Package, ($127,200, and the Executive VIP Package as tested at a heady $151,200.
Each model has a very opulent cabin with big, sumptuous leather seats and trim. A 10-speaker sound system is standard, or you can opt for the superb audiophile 25-speaker Mark Levinson setup with 2,400 watts of audio power. Other luxury touches include heating and ventilation for the front and outboard second-row seats, powered moonroof, power-folding seats, head-up display, and six USB ports. In terms of the dash, fixtures, and fittings there are finely crafted knob, controls, and buttons. The biggest change is the new 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display. This infotainment system in the LX 600 is the latest version and is very clear, effective, and fast in operation. It is now an all-touch or voice-activated unit, instead of a previous a fiddly touch pad affair.
Note there is also a smaller 7.0-inch screen below with the controls for the Multi-Terrain Select, Drive Mode Select, and Downhill Assist Controls. Also new is a digital rear-view mirror. The front seats are excellent. with comfort and firm support and the same applies to the second row. There is a remote power operated tailgate and rear cargo capacity is 1,812L. Have a camper, trailer, or boat? No problem as the LX 600 has a towing capacity of 3,630 kg.
My tester had the Executive VIP package that comprises: Semi-Aniline Leather Seats, 22-inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels, 25 Speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio System, head up display, Heated Leather Wrapped Wood Steering Wheel, 2nd Row Power Folding Auto Arranging Seats, Dual Rear Seat Entertainment System, 4-Zone Independent Automatic Climate Control, Wood Door Trim, Rear Seat Massage Settings, Rear Wireless Charging, and passenger Seat Power Cushion Extender. The Executive version loses the third row of seats and instead offers super plush fully- reclining rear passenger seat as well as displays for each passenger and a central-mounted unit for the rear climate controls and relaxation settings such as massaging seats. Think business class on an airliner!
On the road, the LX 600 offers excellent acceleration from the smooth V6 engine that possesses a wide powerband and lots of torque. Highway cruising is serene and comfortable with a hushed cabin. In urban settings the LX 600 proves to be a supremely comfortable family cruiser. With its multiple drive modes, and adjustable suspension the LX can handle just about any road with utter confidence. Throttle response is instant and the ten-speed automatic transmission’s shifts are smooth and quick. Handling is good, cornering is well controlled, although you can’t toss this tall, large SUV like it’s a smaller compact SUV in the twisties. On the other hand, the LX has potential off-road ability. A Drive Mode dial can select up to six modes — Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, 4Lo-exclusive Mogul Control, and there is also a customizable mode. If that’s not all- the adjustable hydraulic suspension offer more ground clearance with its four settings. Fuel economy is rated at: Est. City/Hwy L/100km. 11.5/8.3.
Overall, the LX 600 is a super premium family cruiser that offers amazing levels of refinement and features. It sadly an expensive proposition for most, but its quality and build is up there with the best from the premium European and US automakers. Highly recommended if perfection is what you desire.
2022 Lexus LX 600 – Priced from MSRP: $106,950 – As tested MSRP: $151,700
More info at: www.lexus.ca
