The 2022 Lexus LX 600 debuted today. Lexus‘ new flagship SUV will still feature durable full-frame construction while boasting improved power, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities. So what is the secret to the LX 600’s specs? This brand-new Lexus shares its powertrain, chassis, and features with the entry-level Toyota Tundra.

The 2021 Lexus LX 570 was outdated

The 2021 Lexus LX 570 was outdated. The Toyota 5.7-liter V8 powered the Luxury SUV. It made 383 horsepower. While this was the largest engine in any Lexus vehicle, modern powerplants beat its performance and efficiency. The Lexus also came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters. Fully optioned, the SUV weighed 6,000 pounds. The result was abysmal fuel efficiency.

The Toyota company recently realized it was unsustainable to offer hundreds of engines and chassis worldwide. So all redesigned Toyota and Lexus vehicles will be built around just a few drivetrain and chassis options.

While some brands gamble on electrification, Toyota’s doubling down on internal combustion. At the heart of Toyota’s global architecture initiative is the Dynamic Force engine family.

The new engines leverage VVTi and other Toyota technologies to maintain precise control over the combustion process. The result is a maximum compression ratio of 14.0:1. In addition, Dynamic Force engines utilize variable oil and water pumps and adaptive cooling systems to reduce pumping losses. 

All new Toyotas and Lexuses will ride on one of several Toyota New Global Architecture chassis. These chassis offer cutting-edge suspension technology, both off-road and on-road. In addition, they take advantage of composite materials and alloys to keep the weight down. 

The 2022 Lexus LX 600 specs: borrowed from the Toyota Tundra

The flagship Dynamic Force engine is a twin-turbocharged 3.44-liter V6. This V6 powers every 2022 Toyota Tundra as well as the 2022 Lexus LX 600. In the 2022 Lexus, this V6 makes 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most powerful engine in any LX, ever. In addition, while the outgoing naturally-aspirated V8 guzzled gas all the time, the new turbocharged engine will be able to idle down and sip fuel.

The new 2022 LX 600 will also upgrade to a ten-speed automatic transmission. Finally, the SUV benefits from a Torsen limited-slip differential. This differential will prevent wheel-spin while off-road. It will also improve traction while cornering and straight-line stability while on-road.

Unfortunately, the LX 600 will not be available with the top-trim Tundra engine. Upmarket 2022 Toyota Tundras feature a hybrid drivetrain: a powerful electric motor sandwiched between the V6 and automatic transmission. This iFORCE MAX layout makes a dizzying 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft. of torque.

Every full-frame Toyota truck and Lexus SUV will share the new TNGA-F chassis. This is a fully-boxed frame riding on four coil springs. The 2022 Toyota Tundra and 2022 Lexus LX 600 share the TNGA-F chassis. This new chassis reduces the Lexus LX weight by 400 pounds. As importantly, the improved frame is 20% more rigid than the outgoing frame and gives the SUV an even lower center of gravity. 

The LX 600 shares a Multi-Terrain Select off-roading system with the Toyota Tundra. Like the Tundra, it features redesigned height-adjustable suspension. And just like in the 2022 Tundra TRD Pro, a series of cameras can even alert the Lexus’ driver of obstacles in the trail.

The Lexus LX 2022 interior is seriously posh

While the top trim Tundras offer leather seats, the 2022 Lexus LX 600 trounces the Toyota truck in creature comforts. One unprecedented feature is an available fold-flat third row of seating. Either section of this 50/50 row can recline or fold flat into the cargo floor.

Owners who do not need the extra seating can opt out of the third row. They can also buy the Lexus LX with only four seats. The available rear captain’s chairs offer a massage function and recline up to 48 degrees. This top-trim LX also boasts diamond-stiched semi-aniline leather, a power-retractable ottoman, and personal tray tables.

The Lexus LX 2022 interior offers 19-inches of screens total. This includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, Apple Play, Android Auto, and the voice-activated Lexus assistant. The dashboard also houses a 7-inch touchscreen to operate the HVAC system and finally, a crisp, 8-inch digital gauge cluster.