FLAGSHIP MODEL

Lexus PH announces arrival of the all-new LX 600

Lexus Philippines just announced that an all-new, fourth generation LX flagship SUV model will be introduced next month. The all-new LX 600, replacing the current generation LX 570, is set to become the brand’s flagship SUV continuing the tradition of providing luxury SUVs without compromising on reliability, durability as well as giving the best off-road driving performance, all in one package.

While it may seem like a mouthful, Lexus didn’t fail to provide the best in luxury on and off-road performance. The LX just comes after Lexus PH’s announcement of the new NX model introduction and these new models continue to be fine examples of traditional Japanese Takumi craftsmanship and artisan excellence in its finishing.

Lexus held the world premiere of the all-new LX in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates last October and said that it continues to embody its commitment to meeting the diversifying needs and lifestyles of guests. Since the introduction of the first LX in 1996 as the brand’s flagship SUV, it has been known for its high-quality, excellent ride comfort, and driving performance that is designed to withstand punishment in all kinds of roads around the world.

A total of about 500,000 units have been sold in more than 50 countries. Last Monday, Lexus held an exclusive virtual introduction workshop for the all-new LX with Lexus Chief Engineer Takami Yokoo. Here’s what we know so far.

The LX 600 will be offered in engine variants of either a high-output, high-torque 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine or a 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine. Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) and an electric power steering system (EPS) are also adopted to ensure drivers will be able to enjoy Lexus’ unique driving performance to the fullest, both on-road and off-road. Previously, the silky smooth V8 engine of the current generation local LX 570 model is a bulkier and thirstier 5.7 liter engine that is 30 horsepower less and 107 Nm of torque less than the upcoming, more efficient V6 gasoline engine. With more power and fuel efficiency—puts out 415 hp and 650 Nm of torque—the new LX 600 promises to have approximately 20 percent lesser CO2 emissions and better gas mileage. The new 10-speed transmission gives a much wider range of overall gear ratios, further increasing better performance.

With a much lighter gross weight, the new LX GA-F platform sheds 200 kilos

GA-F platform sheds 200 kilos while having a higher rigidity body (20% higher than the current model). Aluminum metals is extensively used in the new LX, including the roofing which gave the new LX a better and lower center of gravity. Just like its Toyota sibling, the all-new LC300 Land Cruiser, it still uses the traditional body-on-frame structure to ensure better offroad performance and it allows the LX to be fitted with solid axles and beefier suspension parts. Yokoo added that for the LX, the rear chassis were bent inwards to that the shock absorber assembly can be positioned outside the chassis line for better ride performance. This higher power-to-weight ratio plus updated suspension makes the new LX an exciting and very capable off-roader.

Asked why Lexus chose a hydraulic oil-based ride height control system over a air-powered pneumatic system, Tomoo said: “The hydraulic system is the best option to combine with the LX’s EPS (electric powered steering) system to give the best driving performance, as well as this system is much more responsive in varying terrain heights and challenges. Like going over big rocks that need a quick height adjustment, and it is much faster to lower the vehicle when the LX is in parking position.”

What’s also very unique about the new LX is Lexus’ first fingerprint-authentication push-button start switch for added security. The all-new interior looks great and it will be the first Lexus to have a dual monitor display, aside from the third one on the instrument panel. Inside, the interior is based on the Tazuna Concept, which Lexus says generates a dialogue between driver and vehicle. The display features a pair of 12.3-inch upper screen and a 7-inch lower screen. The screen is very ergonomically positioned and now has a “Back Underfloor View”, for both front and rear which is a world first it displays the area beneath the floor pan so the LX can avoid obstacles like deep ruts and large rocks, very useful during offroad expeditions.

As an option, Lexus can offer the more exclusive Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with 25 speakers, the highest number ever in a Lexus including a large-capacity subwoofer box that utilizes the body frame, are optimally placed to create a distortion-free stage sensation that extends from front to back and left to right. Lexus also uses the latest voice-recognition is enabled by voice or pressing the microphone icon on the display, the steering wheel button. The system has voice activated functions with a system that supports natural speech operation as if you were talking to the car. As of press time, there are no pricing or variant details for the PH market, but the new LX in other markets can be ordered with a new VIP grade for more personalization which has four independent seats with rear seats that can be reclined up to 48 degrees. The F Sport variant has a suspension tuned to handle sportier driving specially on winding roads, similar to its smaller and nimbler siblings. The new LX also has a newer and better Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, packed with various technologies that have been introduced to support off-road driving.The large new chrome spindle grille is an improved version of the current model, with its three-dimensional and frame-free grille that provides optimal cooling even in the harshest climates. Incidentally, the LX has a huge market in the Middle East so a lot of attention has been placed in designing the LX to work well in hot as well as very cold climate zones. Aside from 18-inch and 20-inch wheels, Lexus added 22-inch wheels as an option in the new LX, which is the largest in the Lexus lineup to improve on-road performance. Its weight have been reduced with optimized rolling resistance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency.