For Toyota fans, it’s a hard pill to swallow knowing that the successor to the legendary Land Cruiser won’t be available in the US. However, the next best thing is coming—a re-batched variant in the form of the all-new 2022 Lexus LX 600. Under the hood resides a 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. That’s paired to a Direct Shift ten-speed transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system, which also has a low range. The middle differential can be locked for a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear axles. There’s an available F-Sport model that gets a limited-slip differential on the rear axle too.
For 2022, the LX 600 is 441 pounds lighter than the outgoing model, which would provide improved handling both on-road and off. Other features include an Active Height Control Suspension with an expanded range of ride height positions, Adaptive Variable Suspension, a new Electric Power Steering system, an Electronically Controlled Brake system, plus optional 22-inch forged aluminum wheel, and plenty of displays throughout including a 12.3-inch and 7-inch screen in the center console for functions ranging from climate control to infotainment.
A slew of new technology, and rugged Land Cruiser underpinnings, will help the new Lexus LX 600 become a much more compelling choice among SUV shoppers when it arrives in early 2022.