2023 Lexus

The Lexus LX is a big, modern, full-size luxury SUV that hasn’t sacrificed its off-road toughness. Based on the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which is no longer offered in North America, the LX600 is powered by a 409-hp twin-turbo V-6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Rivals such as the BMW X7 and Cadillac Escalade offer a grander experience with a more adult-friendly third row, but the LX600 has other virtues. Instead of cold and corporate, it’s made for people who don’t mind getting sand between their toes. The LX600 is the epitome of glide, with a supple ride, adjustable air suspension, and comfy seats. But its stout body-on-frame construction and Land Cruiser DNA make it a luxury SUV that’s happy to go where the dirt is.

We think the Luxury trim represents the best value here—value being a relative term when you’re talking six-figure SUVS—as it adds niceties such as semi-aniline leather upholstery, a Mark Levinson stereo system, and handsome 22-inch wheels among other features. If you’re looking for luxury that rivals the Range Rover or top-spec models from BMW and Mercedes, you’ll want to go with the Ultra Luxury trim, but doing so limits the cabin to just four seats.

The LX600 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine that makes 409 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive are both standard. This powertrain launched in the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which shares its mechanical underpinnings with the LX. Given Lexus’s penchant for hybrid powertrains, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a gas-electric setup under the LX’s hood, similar to the one used in the 2022 Tundra pickup, but so far the company only offers this non-hybrid powertrain. On the road, the twin-turbo V-6 provides ample power as well as a refined nature suitable for a luxury vehicle such as the LX. In our testing the LX600 managed a 6.1-second zero-to-60-mph time, which will be more than enough for most drivers. Most models deliver a compliant ride, but those swooning over the F Sport model and its more aggressively-tuned suspension will have to put up with some ride harshness.

Inside, the new LX’s luxurious makeover is evident starting with a wide center console between the front seats that creates a cozy cockpit environment. Quilted leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped dashboard, wood trim, and smoked-chrome accents give the LX a high-end appearance and luxe ambiance. The entry-level Standard trim comes with room for five across in two rows of seats; the Premium, Luxury, and F Sport trims come with a third row of seats that increases passenger capacity to seven. The top-spec Ultra Luxury model is only offered as a four-seat layout, with dual captain’s chairs in the second row divided by a center console, plus rear-seat entertainment displays and wireless smartphone charging capability.