Next-gen Lexus LX likely to debut by late-2021

With the new generation of the Toyota Land Cruiser now going on sale in international markets it was only a matter of time before sister company Lexus rolled out an all-new LX. Now the Japanese luxury carmaker seems to have teased its upcoming flagship at the recent global debut of its new NX SUV.

• New Lexus LX to share twin-turbo V6 engines with the Land Cruiser
• Hybrid model also expected to arrive
• New LX likely to get a new range topping LX600 variant and a VIP trim

At the recent reveal of the new NX, Lexus said that the brand planned to debut 20 new models in the next five years, two of which would be this year starting with the NX. Along with  the announcement, the carmaker had on display a number of covered models aside from the new NX with one in particular likely to be the new LX.

While the covered car makes it hard to tell if it was the actual next-gen model or just the current SUV, it is highly likely that the new LX will be the brand’s next big reveal.

New Lexus LX: What we know

Reports suggest that Lexus could be opening pre-bookings for the new LX in its home market of Japan by September this year which does give credence to a debut later in the year.

While little is known about the large Lexus’ styling, one can expect a design influence from other newer cars revealed by the brand recently, while retaining the new Land Cruiser’s boxy and upright proportions. The new LX will sit on the same ladder frame platform (GA-F) as the new 300 Series Land Cruiser and one could expect much of the new Land Cruiser’s tech to also be carried over as well.

Details of the cabin remain scarce, though one can expect Lexus to upgrade the LX’s cabin over the LC 300 for a more upmarket look and feel in line with the brand’s more upmarket positioning. Leaked details also talk of a new VIP model which could point towards a more luxuriously appointed fully-loaded model which could get bits in line with the Executive Package offered on the flagship LS sedan in some markets which adds in kit like power-adjustable rear seats with memory, massage function and a fold away ottoman among others.

 New Lexus LX: Engine details

Moving to the engines, the new LX is expected to carry over the twin-turbo V6 petrol and diesel engines from the new LC300. Variants details suggest that aside from an LX570 there is also talks about a new petrol LX600 and a hybrid LX750h. The diesel LX meanwhile is likely to be rebadged as the LX500d given the twin-turbo unit’s higher output figures. All versions are expected to get four-wheel drive as standard.

Lexus line-up for India

Shifting focus to the Indian market, Lexus currently offers a six car line-up in India including its flagships, the current LX SUV, the LS limousine – Lexus launched an updated model earlier this year - and the LC coupe. Also on sale in the Indian market is the entry level NX SUV, the ES sedan and the long-wheelbase RX SUV.

One can expect Lexus to replace the current LX in India with the all-new model following its international debut.

Source 1, Source 2