The Lexus Lx has long been an icon in the luxury SUV market, and the 2023 model year builds upon this legacy with carefully considered updates. Since its inception in 1995, the Lexus LX has carved out a unique identity, seamlessly blending opulent comfort with robust off-road capabilities. This duality has made the Lexus LX 600 a sought-after vehicle in over 50 countries, appealing to drivers who demand both refined daily driving and the ability to conquer challenging terrains.
The heart of the Lexus LX remains its powerful and responsive 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, delivering both high output and substantial torque. Complementing this engine is a suite of advanced control systems, including the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) and Electric Power Steering (EPS), ensuring refined vehicle management whether navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails.
Stepping inside the Lexus LX 600 reveals a cabin meticulously crafted for passenger comfort and intuitive usability. The instrument panel is dominated by the Lexus Interface, featuring a dual-screen configuration. A 12.3-inch upper display works in concert with a 7-inch lower screen to provide a wealth of information and control options, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of the 2023 Lexus LX 600 showcasing the dual-screen Lexus Interface and premium materials.
The Lexus LX offers a curated palette of five interior color options, allowing owners to personalize their space: Palomino, White/Peppercorn, Circuit Red, Black, and Sunflare.
The exterior design of the Lexus LX embodies a harmonious blend of athletic dynamism, practical functionality, and striking aesthetics, a design language first seen in the 2022 NX. The proportions of the Lexus LX are carefully optimized to project both sophistication and a commanding presence.
Exterior color choices for the Lexus LX include seven distinctive options: Eminent White Pearl*, Atomic Pearl, Manganese Luster*, Nori Green Pearl, Caviar, Ultra White (F SPORT Handling), and Black Onyx (F SPORT Handling).
*Premium paint fee of $595 applies.
Key Enhancements and Technical Features of the Lexus LX 600
GA-F Platform: Foundation for Superior Ride and Handling
The 2023 Lexus LX 600 continues to utilize the robust GA-F platform, introduced in the previous model year. This platform is instrumental in enhancing body rigidity, resulting in a composed and exceptionally comfortable ride, a hallmark of the Lexus Driving Signature. The GA-F platform allows the Lexus LX to exhibit predictable and balanced behavior during cornering, acceleration, and braking, while also contributing to improved stability in off-road environments.
To achieve this delicate balance of both on-road refinement and off-road prowess, the Lexus LX employs a high-mounted double wishbone front suspension, optimized suspension geometry, and carefully tuned coil springs. These elements work in concert to provide both excellent vehicle stability and a plush ride. Crucially for off-road performance, the suspension stroke is generous, with 100 mm (3.93 in.) of bound and 145 mm (5.7 in.) of rebound, ensuring exceptional capability across diverse terrains.
Power and Responsiveness: Twin-Turbo V6 Engine and Direct Shift-10AT
Under the hood of the Lexus LX 600 resides a potent 3.4-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine (V35A-FTS). This powerplant generates an impressive 409 horsepower (415 PS) and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque. Notably, peak torque is sustained across a broad rev range, extending up to approximately 3,600 rpm. This characteristic enhances drivability in various scenarios, from everyday on-road driving to demanding low-speed off-road maneuvers.
The Direct Shift-10AT automatic transmission further refines the driving experience. It delivers smooth and seamless starts, characteristic of a torque converter, while also providing the direct acceleration feel of a manual transmission by engaging lockup across nearly its entire operating range (excluding initial start-up). The transmission’s closely spaced gear ratios and rapid shift times contribute to crisp gear changes and a driving rhythm that harmonizes with the engine’s sound.
The Lexus LX benefits from a wide range of gear ratios, optimizing both initial acceleration and high-speed cruising. The low first gear amplifies starting force, enabling smooth launches and powerful low-speed off-road performance. Recognizing the demands of off-road driving, an oil pan guard is integrated into the lower section of the automatic transmission, mitigating the risk of damage from impacts encountered on challenging terrain.
Alt text: Close-up view of the powerful twin-turbo V6 engine of the Lexus LX 600, highlighting its advanced engineering.
Lexus Driving Signature: On-Road Performance and Refinement
The Lexus LX 600 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) systems. These technologies work in synergy to deliver a driving experience characterized by seamless transitions between deceleration, steering, and acceleration in all driving situations. 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 AHC suspension system allows for dynamic ride height adjustments based on driving conditions. The Lexus LX offers a range of ride height positions to optimize for various scenarios. While ride height is modulated through shock absorbers, gas and hydraulic springs, and metal springs, a spring rate switching mechanism is incorporated for the rear wheels, accelerating ride height adjustments. Three on-road height settings are available (Normal, Hi1, and Hi2), along with a Low setting for easier entry and exit.
The system intelligently adjusts ride height in response to Drive Mode Select or Multi-Terrain Select activation, as well as transfer case selection. Ride height status is conveniently displayed on both the gauge panel and the 7-inch touch display. Beyond ride height, AHC also responds to vehicle posture changes, such as pitch and roll, and stabilizes the vehicle during cornering, acceleration, and deceleration by optimizing spring rates as needed.
In conjunction with the transfer case in L4 range or Multi-Terrain Select modes, the suspension automatically adjusts to Hi1 or Hi2 based on road conditions. In Hi1 or Hi2 settings, the system further refines vehicle height based on speed to minimize ground interference and enhance handling stability.
The suspension characteristics are also dynamically adjusted, softening for a comfortable ride over urban bumps and stiffening for a flat and stable feel during cornering. The automatic vehicle height adjustment, lowering when stationary and adjusting when in motion, further enhances convenience. The adoption of a linear solenoid valve system in the AVS provides precise and responsive damping force control, adapting seamlessly to road surface and driving conditions.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB)
The EPS system in the Lexus LX 600 replaces conventional hydraulics with a motor and reduction gear. This enables nuanced steering tuning, providing light steering effort at low speeds, beneficial for off-road maneuvering, and progressively increasing steering weight at higher speeds. The vehicle responds faithfully and linearly to steering inputs, contributing to the Lexus Driving Signature feel. The light steering at low speeds reduces driver fatigue, while the moderate steering force at higher speeds enhances driver confidence and control.
The Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system utilizes a sensor to precisely detect brake pedal input, translating this into hydraulic braking force for more linear braking performance. When Multi-Terrain Select is engaged for off-road driving, the ECB system is designed to ensure exceptional stability through finely tuned braking control, mitigating wheel slip or spin.
Wheels, Tires, and Rear Torsen® Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
The Lexus LX 600 features 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, the largest in the Lexus lineup, enhancing both off-road capability and on-road performance. Exclusive to the F SPORT grade, a Torsen® LSD is employed to optimize rear tire traction. During cornering acceleration, the LSD intelligently distributes driving force between the rear wheels based on load, enhancing control. In straight-line driving, the LSD responds to changing road conditions, contributing to overall stability.
Heritage and Off-Road Prowess
The Lexus LX 600 proudly inherits the 2,850 mm (112 in.) wheelbase golden ratio, a legacy tracing back to the first generation in 1995. This wheelbase underpins both the vehicle’s exceptional rough terrain performance and its spacious interior. The ground obstacle angles (approach, departure, and ramp break-over), the maximum stable inclination angle of 44 degrees, the climbing ability of 45 degrees, and the maximum river crossing depth of 700 mm (27.5 in.) are all maintained at the same impressive levels as the previous model, reinforcing the Lexus LX‘s legendary off-road credentials.
Advanced Display and Multi-Terrain Monitoring
The instrument panel of the Lexus LX 600 features a 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen, designed to provide information without driver 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 on the upper screen while simultaneously observing real-time vehicle status on the lower screen, eliminating the need to switch displays during off-road excursions.
Evolved Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and Off-Road Assistance Systems
The Lexus LX 600 is equipped with Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), offering six selectable modes – Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock – to optimize performance across diverse off-road conditions. Beyond conventional brake hydraulics, MTS integrates and controls drive power and suspension settings, tailoring vehicle behavior to the selected mode and terrain. The operational range of MTS extends across both low range (L4) and high range (H4).
The Auto mode leverages sensor data to intelligently assess road conditions and dynamically optimize brake hydraulic pressure, driving force, and suspension control. This feature allows drivers to maintain optimal performance across varying terrains without manual mode switching.
Crawl Control, engaged in low range, enables the Lexus LX to move forward or backward at one of five driver-selectable low-speed settings (LO, MIDL, MID, MIDH, and HIGH). Crawl Control orchestrates engine output and hydraulic braking to minimize tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior, enhancing control in challenging situations.
Downhill Assist Control (DAC) 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 via a switch, focusing on steering without needing to modulate braking or acceleration, reducing driver workload.
The Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) utilizes four cameras to provide comprehensive visibility around the vehicle. Front, side, and rear camera views can be displayed on the 12.3-inch screen, eliminating blind spots and enhancing awareness of surrounding conditions. The Back Underfloor View provides a transparent underfloor perspective by overlaying a pre-recorded foreground image with vehicle and wheel position, aiding in obstacle avoidance. Another view magnifies the area around the rear wheels, assisting in obstacle assessment and distance estimation.
Ultra Luxury and F SPORT Handling Grades: Tailoring the LX Experience
Ultra Luxury Grade: Elevated Rear Passenger Experience
The four-seat Ultra Luxury grade elevates the Lexus LX experience, prioritizing rear passenger comfort and amenities. The front passenger seat can move forward, and the rear seat recline angle can be adjusted up to 48 degrees, creating a spacious and relaxing environment. The rear seat display, positioned behind the front passenger seat, can be folded down for enhanced forward visibility, offering a truly airy and VIP seating experience with a maximum legroom of 1,100 mm (43 inches). This reclined seating posture is easily achieved with a single button press on the rear control panel. A deployable footrest behind the front passenger seat further enhances comfort.
Alt text: The opulent Ultra Luxury interior of the Lexus LX 600, showcasing the spacious rear seating and advanced comfort features.
The rear seats feature Ultra Luxury-exclusive curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions that gently cradle the head, hips, and lower body. This VIP seating design helps to mitigate lateral G-forces and road irregularities. The seat shape promotes a secure posture, while 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 display. An Ultra Luxury-exclusive air conditioning system provides overhead ceiling vents for a full-body comfort breeze.
The rear control panel, centrally located, manages all rear passenger functions and equipment. Wireless charging is positioned for visibility in reclined seating positions. Cup holders are equipped with lids, and the closed lid surface, finished in scratch-resistant self-healing paint, can serve as a small table. A large console box provides ample storage, and DC power supply, USB, and headphone jacks offer added convenience.
F SPORT Handling Grade: Sportier Dynamics and Styling
For drivers seeking a sportier aesthetic and driving experience, the F SPORT Handling grade offers unique design elements and performance enhancements. Styling features 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 for enhanced grip and style, and exclusive F SPORT emblems are applied throughout the cabin. Custom-crafted F designed seats provide enhanced lateral support. Ultra White exterior with Circuit Red interior is offered exclusively for the F SPORT Handling grade.
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 further optimizes responsiveness and handling, providing a distinct F SPORT Handling driving experience.
Next-Generation Design and Lexus Interface
The Lexus LX 600 exterior and interior design seamlessly blend superior functionality with striking aesthetics. The front A-pillars are positioned rearward, creating a cab-backward silhouette, while a robust stance and 22-inch wheels convey a dynamic presence. The spindle grille features a three-dimensional design with seven sets of floating bars, creating a seamless and frameless structure. The grille design is functional, with millimeter-precise bar thickness adjustments optimizing cooling performance for the twin-turbo engine. Large side radiator grille openings further enhance cooling and airflow.
The headlamps feature L-shaped clearance lamps with daytime running light functionality. The inner lenses are doubled and layered, creating depth and visual interest. The sides of the Lexus LX convey a sense of solidity and mass, with a strong horizontal body line extending along the profile and merging into muscular rear wheel arches. The quarter pillars taper from the roofline to the rear window, and a chiseled flow extends from the rocker panels to behind the rear tires.
The redesigned rear LEXUS logo signifies the next generation of Lexus design. The rear combination lamps incorporate L-shaped tail lamps with a continuous axial flow from the front to the rear silhouette.
The North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system provides intuitive connectivity and navigation. The 12.3-inch upper touchscreen and LX-exclusive 7-inch lower touchscreen offer user-friendly technology. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhances interaction through sight, touch, and voice, prioritizing accessibility. The Lexus Interface incorporates a Voice Assistant designed for natural voice interaction. Dual microphones with speaker location capability and enhanced noise cancellation enable voice-first access to navigation, media, phone, and vehicle settings.
The Lexus Interface User Profile feature allows drivers to personalize settings and access them in other Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles via the Lexus App. The native navigation system features cloud-based functionality and integrated Google Points of Interest, providing accurate directions and mapping. Over-the-air (OTA) updates ensure real-time map updates and enriched media experiences. Offline mode provides navigation even in areas with limited connectivity.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5
The Lexus 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, with enhanced lens camera and millimeter-wave radar elements for expanded range. At intersections, the system can recognize oncoming vehicles during left turns or pedestrians during left and right turns, activating PCS functions as needed. Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) provides steering support within the vehicle’s lane.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) operates above 30 mph and maintains vehicle-to-vehicle distance down to 0 mph, with stop-and-resume functionality. DRCC includes smooth overtaking assistance. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) alerts drivers to unintended lane departures above 32 mph and provides corrective steering input. Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), when DRCC is engaged, provides gentle steering to keep the vehicle centered in the lane.
Additional Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 features include Intelligent High Beams and Road Sign Assist (RSA).
The 2023 Lexus LX 600 is available for sale.
Updated July 28, 2023.
