This week we are taking a look at the all-new, completely redesigned 2022 Lexus LX 600 F Sport, the flagship SUV of the Lexus lineup. The LX has not had a major change since 2007, so this is a welcome addition.
Exterior
The appearance of the LX hasn’t changed drastically, it still has the massive front grill but new, sleeker headlights and taillights. In a first for the LX, it has very attractive 22” alloy wheels.
Powertrain
One of the biggest changes for 2022 is the power train. All LX models come with a 3.5-liter V6 that has twin-turbos, and a 10-speed shiftable automatic, and all are 4-wheel drive. It is generating 409-horses and 479-pound feet of torque that really gets this 5,600- pound SUV moving.
Interior
I was a bit surprised to open the door and find a two-tone red and black trimmed interior that is just beautiful. The front seats are power, heated and ventilated, just slightly bolstered, and incredibly comfortable.
Hit the huge start button high on the dash and an 8” configurable gauge cluster comes to life. A large, round tachometer is the center piece and a digital speedometer sits inside the circle. You can also get your speed by looking up at the terrific head-up display with sign recognition.
Another great upgrade is the 12.3” Infotainment touchscreen. Yes, finally gone is the irritating trackpad that most hated. This screen operates the sound system, navigation, Bluetooth, vehicle settings, apps, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and this is where you see the impressive 360-degree camera system. The touchscreen works well, it is quick, and there is a very short learning curve.
Under that screen is a smaller 7” screen that monitors the LX when off-road and offers up all sorts of information. Combined with the front view camera just above, you are sure to be safe when off the pavement.
Below that screen are the climate controls, off-road buttons, and two large knobs for the drive modes and to lock in 4-wheel high or 4-wheel low mode. Drive modes include Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S, Sport Plus, and Custom. Yes, Sport Plus is my favorite.
The center console has a row of buttons for the emergency brake, auto hold, traction control, and you can raise or lower the Lexus thanks to the optional Active Height Control system. In the center is a wireless cell phone charger, the gear shifter, a couple of cup holders, USB and USC ports, switches for the heated and cooled seats, and the heated steering wheel.
The center glove box opens from both front seats and inside is a drink cooler, that works better than any I’ve seen. You can actually feel the cold air blowing in there.
The back seat is roomy, there are air conditioning vents with digital climate controls, switches for both heated and ventilated seats, manual side sunshades, and more USB ports. The split second row seats flip for easy entry to the 3rd row.
The 3rd row seat is fairly limited. You can put adults back there, but knee room is tight. The third row folds flat into the floor with the push of buttons and opens up a lot of cargo area. With the 3rd row seats up, cargo is quite limited.
Standard Equipment
The Lexus F Sport comes well equipped with power tailgate, a power moon roof, ambient lighting, and aluminum pedals.
Safety-wise, you get blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with steering intervention, parking assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Ride and Drive
The LX F Sport is a comfy luxury SUV in Comfort mode, but has a sporty side in Sport Plus mode. It is super quiet inside, acceleration is very good, and you just tell it is solidly built. It is also capable of towing 8,000 pounds.
MPG and What You'll Pay
Fuel economy has improved from the last one. The 2022 is rated at 17 city and 22 highway. MSRP, including the $2500 Mark Levinson sound system with 25 speakers (yes 25) is $106,305 which was less than I expected.
Verdict
This new LX 600 F Sport is an exceptional luxury SUV, but don’t let the looks fool you. It also an incredibly capable, truck-based SUV that will take you anywhere off-road you want to go.
- What I liked most: The interior is fantastic! Big improvement in electronics.
- What I would change: I wish it had a little more 3rd row seat room.
- MSRP: Base price: $101,000; as equipped: $106,305.
- Fuel Economy: 17 city/22 highway/19 combined.
- Odometer reading when tested: 1,100 miles.
- Weight: 5,665-pound curb weight.
- Spare Tire: Full-sized spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 201” long/78” wide/75” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons with the filler on the driver’s side.
- Official Color: Atomic Silver.
- Towing Capacity: 8,000 pounds.
- 2022 LX 600 in a few words: HUGE improvement to this large, luxury Lexus. Fantastic quality like you’d expect from a Lexus.
- Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper, 6-year/70,000 mile power train warranty with roadside assistance.
- Final Assembly Location: Aichi, Japan.
- Manufacturer's website: www.LEXUS.com
