Exploring the 2023 Lexus LX600

Let’s take a closer look at the 2023 Lexus LX600, a fancy SUV that’s all about luxury and style. With different versions to pick from, it promises a top-notch ride for everyone. Let’s see what makes this SUV stand out from the crowd.

Overview of the 2023 Lexus LX600

The 2023 Lexus LX 600 is a large, luxurious SUV that offers five different trim levels to choose from. The LX lineup begins with the two-row LX, which can accommodate five passengers. The middle trims, including the Premium, F Sport Handling, and Luxury, offer three rows of seating for up to seven people. On the other hand, the top-tier Ultra Luxury model removes the third-row and middle second-row seats.

Each trim level comes equipped with a powerful turbocharged engine, smooth automatic transmission, and reliable four-wheel drive system. Notable features across the lineup include spacious wheels, cozy heated seats, advanced navigation system, and a comprehensive array of safety technologies such as collision warning and lane departure assistance.

As you progress to higher trim levels, you’ll find added luxuries like adaptive suspension for enhanced comfort, a hands-free liftgate for convenience, and ambient lighting for the atmosphere. The F Sport Handling variant introduces sportier elements such as larger wheels and a tuned suspension for improved performance.

The Luxury trim elevates the experience further with premium touches like soft-close doors, power-folding seats, and a high-end audio system. Finally, the Ultra-Luxurious trim takes things to the next level with exclusive features such as adjustable suspension, a rear-seat entertainment system, and luxurious captain’s chairs with ventilation and massage functions.

Engine and performance

The LX600 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V-6 engine, generating 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. While Lexus has a history of incorporating hybrid powertrains, there’s no indication of such an option for the LX so far, despite the presence of a V-6 hybrid in the 2022 Tundra pickup.

On the road, the twin-turbo V-6 engine delivers ample power and a refined driving experience typical of a luxury vehicle. With a recorded acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, the LX600 offers more than sufficient performance for most drivers. Its four-wheel-drive system includes a low range for challenging terrain, although the fixed running boards may pose a vulnerability in extreme off-road conditions.

While most LX600 models provide a comfortable ride, the relaxed suspension can result in noticeable body roll during turns. The F Sport model addresses this to some extent with a firmer suspension, although it also introduces increased ride harshness as a trade-off.

Fuel Efficiency 

The EPA estimates the LX 600 to achieve 19 mpg combined (17 city/22 highway). However, its actual performance in mixed driving conditions, including highway miles, is an average of 18.2 mpg. 

Interior

The interior of the two-row LX is spacious, but you miss out on having a third row, which could be handy in such a big SUV. The driving position feels tall and powerful, but shorter folks might find it tricky to get comfy. The centre console is pretty big, and it can make you feel like you’re sitting closer to the door than you’d like. Visibility is surprisingly good for such a large vehicle, thanks to the tall windows and large mirrors that let you see all around you.

Inside, there are lots of buttons and screens, especially for off-road stuff, which can be a bit overwhelming at first. And even though the doors open wide and there are grab handles, getting in and out can be tough because the seats are high up and there’s a big step to climb.

Comfort

The LX offers a comfy and quiet interior, with front seats that are wide and supportive, feeling like cozy armchairs perfect for long trips. The second-row passenger-side seat in the Ultra Luxury trim is particularly luxurious, almost like sitting in a business-class seat on a long flight. Even tall adults can recline almost completely flat. The cabin stays hushed, and the climate system works quickly to cool or heat things up.

However, the ride quality doesn’t match the luxury vibe. Despite Lexus’ fancy suspension, the LX feels floaty and bouncy on highways, which can be a bit unsettling, especially on smoother roads where it feels like you’re on a boat.

Technology 

The LX has dual touchscreens as it’s control system. Plus, it also has USB ports for charging in the second row. However, in the top trim, only the second row gets wireless charging and massaging seats, though Lexus plans to extend these features to the front row in the future. At least the driver gets wireless smartphone integration.

But LX’s fancy driving aids is not really impressive. The adaptive cruise control tended to slow down too much for turns, and the auto backup braking was overly cautious, stopping abruptly before it needed to. It does have some off-road features like crawl control and a surround-view camera, but nothing that stands out compared to other SUVs in its class.

Safety and driver assistance

The LX comes equipped with a standard suite of driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. However, it does not offer a hands-off highway driving assist system like some of its competitors, such as the Escalade’s Super Cruise or the Navigator’s ActiveGlide.

Key safety features include:

• – Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian-and-bicyclist detection
• – Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• – Standard adaptive cruise control

Price

The 2023 Lexus LX 600‘s price range begins at $88,245 for the base trim, $96,345 for the Premium trim, $102,345 for the F Sport, $104,345 for the Luxury, and $127,345 for the Ultra Luxury. At these prices, the 2023 Lexus LX 600 in Nigeria is expected to range from ₦210 million to ₦250 million, varying according to the chosen trim level.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2023 Lexus LX600 is a top choice for luxury SUV lovers. It’s got power, comfort, and all the fancy features you could want. While it might have a few bumps in the road with its ride and tech, its luxury and prestige make it a winner. With its range of models and cool features, it’s hard to beat the LX600 for luxury SUVs.