Chances are high that you’ve already been informed about the absence of the 300 Series Toyota Land Cruiser in North America. Yet, the affluent populace will find solace in the fact that its luxury-focused counterpart, the fresh Lexus LX, will be accessible here, presumably built upon the same TNGA-F framework. Lexus has officially announced that the new LX will be unveiled next Wednesday, October 13. Consequently, by mid-week, we shall ascertain if our substitute for the Land Cruiser lives up to the expectations of fervent truck aficionados.
Conversely, the preceding Land Cruiser we received was by no means economical. Our assessment of a 2020 model Heritage Edition revealed a price tag approaching $90,000. Enthusiasts fervently desiring an off-road capable alternate to the Land Cruiser may not appreciate the LX’s upscale appearance or inevitable plush interior. Nevertheless, those acquainted with contemporary iterations of Toyota’s globe-trotting SUV likely won’t be startled by the price premium.
We anticipate that the Lexus LX will house the identical 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine found in the Land Cruiser and the 2022 Toyota Tundra. Power in both configurations is transmitted via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Presumably, the LX will come equipped with all-wheel drive as standard, much like its predecessor. Additionally, it is expected to feature the Land Cruiser’s Multi-Terrain Select off-road assistance system alongside Crawl Control for intricate four-wheel drive maneuvers.
The adoption of a multi-link rear suspension is purported to enhance the off-road capabilities and on-road comfort of the TNGA-F platform, characteristics in which the prior LX struggled slightly. Coupled with enhancements to the interior, notably the integration of Lexus’ latest infotainment system, the forthcoming model promises to be a significant advancement over its aging predecessor.
Regarding the design aspect, there isn’t much discernible from Lexus’ brief 15-second teaser video apart from the distinctive Heckblende tail lights. Nonetheless, the anticipation will soon be over as we await the full reveal on Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. ET.
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