- New design and exciting features
- Expanded range, first time ever – F Sport and VIP Grade
From today, customers can start placing orders for the new-generation Lexus LX at their nearest Lexus dealership. (Please note that like all motoring brands at present, Lexus is experiencing acute supply constraints.)
The Lexus flagship SUV range is offered with advanced twin-turbo charged V6 engines in both LX 500 diesel and LX 600 petrol guise. The derivatives include the first-ever F Sport and a new VIP Grade which offers unmatched levels of luxury, comfort and versatile seating configurations. A new naming guide goes along with the new model – LX 500d (previously LX 450d) and LX 600 petrol (previously LX 570). Both engines are mated with the newly developed Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth acceleration.
The line-up comprises the LX 500d, LX 500d F Sport, LX 600 seven-seater, LX 600 F Sport and LX 600 VIP. All models come as five-seaters except for the LX 600 petrol grade which boasts seven chairs and the ultra-luxurious four-seat VIP grade.
Design Changes
The front grille now features a frameless but expertly integrated spindle grille that’s composed of merging floating bars that create a fresh look with visual impact. The wheelbase has been carried over from the current generation in order for the vehicle to retain its off-road capabilities. In terms of dimensions, the new LX is 10mm wider, 30mm higher with wider front and rear tread. These dimensions contribute to more balanced proportions and steadiness on the road.
New headlamps are equipped with three-projector unit lamps that convey a very aggressive look and deliver exceptional light distribution. The constantly illuminating LED Daytime Running Lights have been retained to express Lexus’ iconic L-shape design.
The rear displays the evolved next-chapter Lexus signature. This can be seen through the rear lamps that combine the L-shaped lights with a straight line to create a sharply distinctive lighting system. This distinctive design was further reinforced by the redesigned logo which creates a simple but more modern look.
Engine & Powertrain
In terms of powertrain innovation, the LX’s environmental responsiveness is designed to result in approximately 20 percent CO2 reduction. To further contribute to a lower centre of gravity and improved weight distribution, the engine has been moved backwards by 70mm, and downwards by 28mm respectively. In addition to engine repositioning, the engine sound has also been enhanced. The new LX comes with a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol and a 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel. These new engines provide better output and torque with elevated levels of refinement when compared to the outgoing model.
The new V6 twin-turbo petrol engine has a total output of 305kW and 650Nm of torque (which equates to +35kW and +120Nm respectively). The new petrol engine achieves a maximum torque at lower rpms (previous rpms = 530@3200). The new diesel engine delivers 225kW of output and 700Nm of torque, which translates to an increase of 30kW and 50Nm respectively. The fuel consumption for the diesel engine is 18.6% (-1.9) better than the previous generation. This model’s fuel consumption is pegged at 8.3 litres/100km, while the petrol models consume 11.3 litres/100km. Top speed is limited to 210km per hour.
The four-wheel drive system has been improved for outstanding capabilities in off-road conditions. The system consists of open front and rear differentials and a locking Torsen centre differential.
Other Impressive Across-the-Range Features
All-new, across-the-range technologies include the human-centred Tazuna cockpit concept with dual centre screens, an across-the-range BladeScan adaptive high-beam system and a 25-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound System – the most comprehensive in any Lexus. Also available in all grades is a Lexus-debut fingerprint identification for engine start. Other convenient niceties include an across-the-range power and hands-free rear boot function, semi-aniline leather trim, Park Distance Control with Intelligent Clearance Sonar and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and braking.
A Snapshot of the new LX 600 VIP Grade
The LX 600 VIP grade becomes the new range flagship, featuring the acclaimed Lexus LS-derived 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine – with an opulent, exclusive four-seat cabin layout. Independent, electrically-adjustable and heated/ventilated second-row seats deliver 860mm of legroom, a seatback with up to 48-degree recline, an independently adjustable ottoman with two-position memory.
VIP Black and VIP Flare Brown trim ornamentation with semi-aniline leather upholstery further complement the stylish and opulent luxury interior of this model.
To reiterate, the VIP Grade is the new four-seat version, a world first in this segment. The front passenger seat features an ‘extra front slide mode’ to increase the rear seat space. The VIP grade also boasts ceiling vents that deliver a fresh “air shower” in hot weather, and warm “air curtain” in cold weather.
The rear also features a multi-information panel, equipped with a 11.6-inch touch screen to control all rear-comfort features. The new VIP grade features extended massage options, including a full-body, shoulder, and lumbar seat massage options. The VIP grade will run on 22-inch premium metallic alloy wheels.
LX F Sport Grades
The F Sport grade is available for the first time for LX. For South Africa, this will be offered in both the petrol and diesel models. This long-awaited model provides a unique driving experience, particularly on winding roads.
F Sport highlights shared include front and rear-outboard seat heating, a heated steering wheel, centre console-mounted cool box, a digital rear-view mirror, soft-close doors and Lexus-debut fingerprint identification for the engine start button – where up to 10 fingerprints can be registered to authorise engine start, and link to seat and mirror memory settings.
The F Sport raises the presence of the all-new Lexus LX with a prominent jet-black grille featuring a mesh pattern and a black-plated grille frame. Satin-plated moulding is featured across the front and rear of the vehicle, and standard are 22-inch forged alloy wheels – the largest-ever on an LX.
The F Sport grade has the following exclusive features that further cement its sporty profile:
– F Sport exclusive emblems are used throughout the interior
– Dimple steering wheel and shift knob
– F Sport seats
– Aluminum sport pedals and footrest
– F Sport logo Front scuff plates
– Air intakes (lower grille)
– Front spoiler
– Exclusive White Nova exterior colour
– Exclusive interior colours (Black & Flare Red)
The F Sport delivers the sharpest focus on the Lexus Driving Signature, featuring a rear Torsen® limited-slip differential, front and rear performance dampers (bracing), Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and a unique electric power steering tune.
Safety First (all models)
The advanced Lexus Safety System+ technology suite includes: a pre-collision system with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, front and rear parking support brake (PKSB) with obstacle and vehicle detection, blind-spot monitor (BSM), dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), lane tracing assist (LTA) and a tyre pressure warning monitor.
New across-the-range safety technologies include turn assist, which is helpful when negotiating tight corners. The driver can also activate the Turn Assist function which essentially applies brake force to the inside rear wheel to shorten the overall turning cycle of the vehicle.
An LX-first Emergency Steering Assist also works to aid the driver when executing an evasive steering manoeuvre by helping to maintain vehicle stability and keeping the vehicle in its lane.
In Conclusion
The all-new Lexus LX introduces qualities that represent the next chapter of Lexus, from its powerful design to new powertrains, advanced technologies and superb performance, whether driving in the city or on the harshest rough-road routes. Customers will be able to select the grade that best suits their lifestyles – with Lexus offering the broadest choice of variants ever with its flagship luxury SUV.
Lexus South Africa says the all-new LX range will appeal to a broad set of customers interested in the luxury SUV segment. “As a leading luxury lifestyle brand, Lexus aims to give its customers the luxury of choice, and the all-new LX range does just that,” states Lexus SA.
With two powertrains, four model grades and three seating layouts to choose from, exacting LX customers can choose the perfect variant to suit their lifestyle, in true ‘Mzansi’ style.
Six exterior colours are available in the all-new LX: Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Terrane Khaki, Raven Black, Manganese Lustre (new) and Graphite Black (new).
Retail Prices
The range retails as follows:
– LX 500d R2 206 600
– LX 500d F Sport R2 215 200
– LX 600 R2 260 400
– LX 600 F Sport R2 247 000
– LX 600 VIP Grade R2 627 500
Every Lexus LX comes with the Lexus Warranty Experience featuring an industry-leading seven-year/100 000-kilometre warranty.
Ends
