The Lexus LX IV (J300), launched in October 2021, represents the fourth generation of Lexus’s flagship full-size luxury SUV. Built upon the Toyota Land Cruiser J300 platform, the LX IV aims to blend the Land Cruiser’s renowned off-road capability with Lexus’s signature refinement and luxury. The 600 V6 AWD Direct Shift 7-Seat variant, detailed here, serves as a core offering within the J300 lineup, positioned as a high-performance, technologically advanced option for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV. It represents a significant departure from previous LX generations, incorporating a new engine and transmission combination alongside a modernized interior and exterior design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LX |
| Generation | LX IV (J300) |
| Type (Engine) | 600 V6 (415 Hp) AWD Direct Shift 7 Seat |
| Start of production | October, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 164.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 257.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 415 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 2000-3600 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | V35A-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 3445 cm3 (210.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.6 l (15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2525-2680 kg (5566.67 – 5908.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3280 kg (7231.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600-755 kg (1322.77 – 1664.49 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 174 l (6.14 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1871 l (66.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 110 l (29.06 US gal | 24.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 5100 mm (200.79 in.) |
| Width | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Height | 1885-1895 mm (74.21 – 74.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200-205 mm (7.87 – 8.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.8 m (41.99 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Direct Shift |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 354×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 335×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 20; 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the LX 600 is the V35A-FTS, a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine represents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated V8 engines found in previous LX generations. The V35A-FTS utilizes both direct injection and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. The twin-turbochargers, coupled with an intercooler, provide substantial boost, contributing to the engine’s 415 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) system, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. Paired with the engine is a 10-speed automatic transmission, marketed as “Direct Shift.” This transmission is designed for smooth and responsive shifting, contributing to a refined driving experience. The drivetrain is a full-time all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The LX 600 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to earlier LX models. While the Land Cruiser platform retains its inherent body-on-frame robustness, the V6 powertrain provides quicker acceleration and more readily available torque. The 10-speed transmission allows for closer gear ratios, keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to a hypothetical manual transmission version (not offered in this configuration), the automatic prioritizes ease of use and comfort over outright driver engagement. The automatic transmission’s programming is geared towards smooth shifts and relaxed cruising, making it well-suited for long highway journeys. However, it may not offer the same level of responsiveness as a sport-tuned automatic or a manual gearbox. The all-wheel-drive system provides confident handling on paved roads and enhances off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LX 600 7-Seat variant comes standard with a high level of luxury features. Interior appointments typically include leather upholstery, wood trim, and a premium sound system. Standard technology features include a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often include a Mark Levinson premium audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The 7-seat configuration features second-row captain’s chairs and a third-row bench, providing flexible passenger and cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The LX 600 utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, inherited from the Land Cruiser. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining off-road capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors at the front (354x32mm) compared to the rear (335x20mm). An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Due to the vehicle’s weight, braking performance is adequate but not exceptionally sporty. The steering system employs an electric power steering rack and pinion, providing a balance between ease of use and road feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The LX 600 has been generally well-received by automotive critics, who praise its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and capable off-road performance. However, some reviewers have noted the vehicle’s substantial weight and relatively low fuel economy compared to other luxury SUVs. Compared to other trims within the LX lineup, the 600 V6 Automatic represents a sweet spot for buyers seeking a balance of performance, luxury, and technology. It offers more power and refinement than lower-trim models, while remaining more accessible than the ultra-luxury trims. Fuel economy is comparable to other full-size luxury SUVs with similar powertrains, but it is not a class leader.
Legacy
The V35A-FTS engine and 10-speed automatic transmission combination in the LX 600 represent a significant step forward for the Lexus LX lineage. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the Toyota/Lexus V6 engine family has a strong reputation for durability. The LX 600 is expected to hold its value well in the used car market, due to its luxurious features, capable performance, and the enduring reputation of the Land Cruiser platform. The J300 generation LX, and specifically the 600 V6 variant, is poised to become a desirable and collectible SUV in the years to come, appealing to buyers who value both luxury and capability.
