The Evolution of Luxury: A Deep Dive into the Lexus LX
When it comes to full-size luxury SUVs that blend off-road capability with refined luxury, few names command as much respect as the Lexus LX. Born from the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser lineage, the LX has carved its own path over the decades. The LX offers a premium experience without compromising off-road prowess. Let’s take a ride through its history. Four generations have shown that the reliability and Luxurious experience of the Lexus LX are top of the line in the automotive industry.
First Generation: LX 450
The LX story begins in the mid-90s, when Lexus responded to growing demand for luxury SUVs in the U.S. market. The LX 450 was essentially a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser J80, but with upscale touches that marked Lexus’s entry into the segment. Amenities included leather seats and seating for seven passengers in three rows, the third row accessed by tilting the second row bench seat forward. The third row could be folded to the side and the second row folded down for further space. The vehicle was pre-wired for the Lexus remote telephone system, and had a remote entry key system. The three options consisted of a console-mounted 6-disc CD changer, electronic front and rear locking differentials, and a power moonroof. A luxury Land Cruiser sounds obvious now, but in 1996, this was groundbreaking!
- Engine: 4.5L inline-six (1FZ-FE)
Second Generation: LX 470
With the LX 470, Lexus stepped up its game. This generation introduced a smoother ride and more powerful engine, while retaining serious off-road chops. Updated exterior styling broke the mould of the SUVs of the late 90s. It shared the floor pan and most body panels with the equivalent Land Cruiser, and differed in its front appearance and had a more luxurious interior. Exterior design differences included a quad-headlamp forward fascia with larger grille and different wheels. The front gained independent suspension, and the optional electronic locking front and rear differentials were dropped – although the rear locking differential was still available in Canada in 1998–1999. Suspension included Adjustable Height Control (AHC) hydraulic suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The AHC could raise the vehicle for off-roading and return to a normal driving height reducing the center of gravity and wind resistance. The lowest setting for when the vehicle was stopped allowed for easier entry, exit and loading
● Engine: 4.7L V8 (2UZ-FE)
Third Generation: LX 570
The LX 570 marked a major leap in luxury and performance. Built on the J200 platform, it featured bold styling and cutting-edge tech, making it a favorite among luxury SUV buyers. Lexus debuted the 2008 model year LX 570 at the New York International Auto Show. It was a complete redesign, and the first version to be debuted before its expected Land Cruiser counterpart. The large V8 and an updated interior gave drivers at the time the feeling of luxury andgreat performance in a single package.
● Engine: 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE)
Fourth Generation: LX 600
The latest LX is a true flagship, built on the new GA-F platform shared with the Land Cruiser J300. It’s lighter, more powerful, and more luxurious than ever before. Lexus has even offered a hybridized LX for the first time ever, starting in 2025. Decades of research and development has given customers the option of having a vehicle that can haul the family and be an engaging driving experience.
● Engine: 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with 409 hp (V35A-FTS)
● Interior: Dual-screen setup, ultra-luxury four-seat option
● Design: Bold spindle grille, sleek LED light bar, and aggressive lines
● Variants: Hybrid, Ultra Luxury trim, Overtail
Final Thoughts
The Lexus LX has come a long way from a rebadged Land Cruiser to a luxury icon in its own right. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling off-road terrain, the LX allows you to experience amazing and understand the ethos of the Lexus brand. Shop today at your Local North Park Lexus dealer for your dream LX!