Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury SUV Road Test: A Plush Fortress of Capability
The Lexus LX has long been a symbol of unwavering reliability, go-anywhere capability, and a healthy dose of luxury. For 2022, the LX received a comprehensive overhaul, marking the first redesign in 14 years. The LX 600 Ultra Luxury aims to redefine opulence within the rugged framework of the LX, and we spent a week behind the wheel to see if it succeeds.
Exterior Design: Evolving Elegance
The LX 600 retains its imposing presence, but the redesign brings a more modern and refined aesthetic. The massive spindle grille is still the centerpiece, but it’s now flanked by sleeker LED headlights and a more sculpted hood. The profile is clean and muscular, with strong character lines and available 22-inch wheels adding to the visual appeal. The rear end features a full-width LED taillight bar and a redesigned tailgate.
While some may find the spindle grille polarizing, there’s no denying the LX 600’s overall sense of sophistication. It’s a vehicle that commands attention without being overly ostentatious, striking a balance between ruggedness and refinement.
Interior Design and Comfort: A Sanctuary of Luxury
Stepping inside the LX 600 Ultra Luxury is like entering a private jet cabin. The interior is awash in premium materials, including semi-aniline leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and meticulously crafted details. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering a wide range of adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions.
The Ultra Luxury trim elevates the experience further with a four-seat configuration. The rear seats are individual captain’s chairs with power-adjustable ottomans, offering limousine-like levels of legroom and comfort. A rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.4-inch displays allows passengers to enjoy movies, games, or browse the internet.
The LX 600’s cabin is remarkably quiet, thanks to extensive sound insulation and acoustic glass. The ride quality is also exceptional, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the LX 600 provides a serene and comfortable environment.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge Connectivity
The LX 600 boasts a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a dual-screen infotainment system. The upper 12.3-inch display handles navigation, audio, and vehicle settings, while the lower 7-inch display controls climate and other functions. The system is relatively intuitive to use, but it can take some time to get acquainted with all the features.
Other notable technology features include a 25-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and a 360-degree camera system. The LX 600 also comes standard with a wide range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Handling: Effortless Power and Capability
Under the hood of the LX 600 is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This engine replaces the previous generation’s V8, offering improved fuel efficiency and performance. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifts.
The LX 600 delivers effortless acceleration and ample power for any driving situation. Whether you’re merging onto the highway or climbing a steep hill, the engine provides plenty of grunt. The transmission is also well-tuned, always finding the right gear for the situation.
Despite its size and weight, the LX 600 handles surprisingly well. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension does a good job of controlling body roll. The LX 600 is also equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and a variety of off-road features, such as a multi-terrain select system and a crawl control function.
Off-Road Prowess: Ready for Adventure
The LX 600 is more than just a luxurious SUV; it’s also a highly capable off-road machine. Its robust four-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, and advanced off-road features allow it to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. We took the LX 600 on a variety of off-road trails, and it handled everything we threw at it with ease.
The multi-terrain select system allows you to choose from different driving modes, such as rock, mud, sand, and snow. Each mode optimizes the vehicle’s settings for the specific terrain. The crawl control function acts as a low-speed cruise control, allowing you to focus on steering while the vehicle manages the throttle and brakes.
Fuel Economy: Acceptable for its Class
Fuel economy is not typically a primary concern for buyers in this segment, but the LX 600’s fuel economy is reasonable for its size and capability. The EPA estimates the LX 600 at 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. During our week of testing, we averaged around 19 mpg in mixed driving.
Pricing and Value: A Premium Proposition
The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury is a premium SUV with a premium price tag. The base price for the LX 600 starts at around $90,000, while the Ultra Luxury trim can easily exceed $130,000 with options.
While the LX 600 is certainly not inexpensive, it offers a unique combination of luxury, capability, and reliability. It’s a vehicle that can transport you in comfort and style, whether you’re cruising down the highway or exploring off-road trails.
The Verdict: A Luxurious and Capable SUV
The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury is a truly exceptional SUV. It combines luxurious appointments, advanced technology, and impressive off-road capability in a single package. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient or the most affordable SUV on the market, it’s undoubtedly one of the most capable and luxurious.
Pros:
- Exquisite interior design and materials
- Exceptional comfort, especially in the Ultra Luxury trim
- Effortless power and performance
- Impressive off-road capability
- Comprehensive suite of technology features
- Unwavering Lexus reliability
Cons:
- Polarizing spindle grille design (subjective)
- Infotainment system can take some getting used to
- High price tag
Who Should Buy the Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury?
The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury is ideal for buyers who want a luxurious and capable SUV that can handle any adventure. It’s perfect for families who need plenty of space and comfort, as well as individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can take you anywhere in style and comfort, the Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury is definitely worth considering.
Alternatives to Consider:
- Land Rover Range Rover
- Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
- Cadillac Escalade
- BMW X7
Final Thoughts:
The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality, luxury, and capability. It’s a vehicle that’s equally at home on city streets and off-road trails, providing a comfortable and refined experience no matter where you go. While it may not be for everyone, the LX 600 Ultra Luxury is a truly exceptional SUV that deserves serious consideration if you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line luxury vehicle. It’s a plush fortress, ready to conquer any terrain while cocooning its occupants in unparalleled comfort and sophistication. The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury successfully redefines the benchmark for ultra-luxury SUVs.
