2022 Lexus LX 600 Preview – New F SPORT and Ultra Luxury Models Join Next Generation

By Steve & Tamami Laser

When Lexus unveiled the all-new 2022 LX 600 this week, we were surprised to discover that in addition to being totally redesigned inside and out, the flagship SUV will offer F SPORT and Ultra Luxury models for the first time.

Like the new 300 Series Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX rides on a lighter and more rigid GA-F platform. It’s powered by a new twin-turbo engine, and loaded with new technology and luxury features. LX F SPORT gains enhanced handling and styling, while Ultra Luxury adds exclusive VIP rear seating.

Under the hood, the high-output 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 puts out 409 horsepower and a stout 479 lb.-ft. of torque for linear and seamless performance.

It’s teamed with a Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission, with a wider range of gear ratios, designed to produce smooth starts, crisp shifts, and effortless highway cruising.

Lexus says that although the LX remains a frame-based vehicle that retains its predecessor’s traditional off-road driving performance and vehicle stability, the new LX offers a high level of vehicle control, plus a quiet ride befitting its premium luxury status.

During off-road drives, Multi-Terrain Select provides optimum control of the brakes, driving force, and suspension, while allowing the driver to choose from six modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Rock. Crawl Control can automatically accelerate and apply the brakes, based on driver-selectable speed settings.

The LX features a Lexus-first dual display, with an upper 12.3-inch screen showing navigation, audio controls, and the Multi-Terrain Monitor while driving off-road. The separate, lower 7.0-inch screen features climate controls and driving support for Multi-Terrain Select. The driver can simultaneously see camera images on the upper screen, while vehicle status is shown on the lower screen, for convenience and ease of use.

LX F SPORT

Lexus already offers F SPORT versions of its popular RX, NX and UX crossovers, plus the ES and LS sedans, and RC coupe. The new LX F SPORT takes the sporty styling theme to the next level with a truly massive F mesh-style spindle grille, and unique 22-inch forged alloy wheels.

For performance-focused response and handling, LX F SPORT also gains specially tuned front and rear performance shocks, a Torsen® Limited-Slip Differential, a rear stabilizer, and special tuning of the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS).

Inside, F SPORT features unique styling touches, including a textured leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift for enhanced grip, F SPORT logos throughout the cabin, and offers a sporty Circuit Red interior color to promote spirited driving.

Specially designed, custom-crafted F SPORT seats feature firmer side support and cushions, said to enhance hold against lateral g-forces. We also think they look great.

While there are plenty of excellent choices in the new lineup, if we were to select a new LX for our own fleet, the F SPORT model would be our top choice.

LX Ultra Luxury

While every new LX transports passengers in comfort and style, the new Ultra Luxury goes a step further with four individual seats.

The VIP-style rear seats slide back and forth, while allowing users to recline them up to 48 degrees. Curved headrests, seatbacks, and cushions, plus soft urethane materials to absorb vibration, contribute to supreme comfort.

A rear seat display screen, mounted on the back of the front seat, folds down to increase visibility for the rear seat passenger. There’s even a footrest behind the front passenger seat for increased comfort.

Other goodies include rear side window sunshades, plus an Ultra Luxury air conditioning system with overhead vents. A rear control panel lets users manage various equipment functions, while a console box offers storage and access to DC power, headphones and USB.

The new LX is equipped with a suite of driver-assist and active safety features as part of the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. The list includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), with Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian and Bicyclist Detection, Emergency Steering Assist (ESA), All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Intelligent High Beams, and Road Sign Assist (RSA).

Look for Lexus to release more information, including prices (MSRP), and other details, closer to the launch of the new LX, planned for the first quarter of 2022.

Note: The LX models shown in this story are prototypes. Features, specifications, and launch timing for future production vehicles, which may vary by market, is subject to change without notice

News sources and photos courtesy of Lexus International, Lexus USA, Lexus Europe, and Lexus Australia

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