Lexus LX Expert Review

The Lexus LX500d is all about presence. Based on the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300, the LX combines traditional ladder-frame SUV toughness with Lexus luxury, resulting in a vehicle that looks imposing from every angle. 
The massive spindle grille dominates the front end, flanked by sharp LED headlamps and aggressive surfacing. In profile, the LX’s sheer size becomes apparent, while the connected rear light bar and cleaner tailgate design add some modernity.

Inside, the LX mixes traditional Lexus craftsmanship with a more rugged SUV character. The cabin uses a rich blend of leather, wood, aluminium and piano-black trim, and overall quality feels impeccable. The dashboard design, however, feels busy due to the twin-screen setup and large number of physical buttons. While the upper 12.3-inch touchscreen is slick to use, the lower display handling climate and off-road functions adds visual clutter. 
Front-seat comfort is excellent. The seats are large, supportive and come with ventilation and heating functions. The commanding driving position and visibility further enhance the sense of authority behind the wheel. Surprisingly, rear-seat space is not as generous as expected from such a massive SUV. Knee room is merely adequate, and under-thigh support is lacking. The India-spec model also misses out on the luxurious rear captain-chair package offered overseas, and there is no third row either.

The LX500d is powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine producing 308hp and 700Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Performance feels effortless rather than explosive. The diesel engine delivers immense torque, making overtakes easy despite the SUV’s substantial size and weight. Highway cruising is particularly impressive, with the LX feeling relaxed and unstressed at speed. The gearbox deserves praise for its smoothness and quick responses, while the close ratios help improve off-the-line acceleration. Paddle shifters are included, though the review makes clear this is not a vehicle meant for spirited driving on twisty roads. 
Refinement is good overall, but the V6 diesel is noticeably vocal. Even at part throttle, the engine’s gruff soundtrack is always present inside the cabin, especially in the sportier drive modes.

The ARAI claimed fuel efficiency for Lexus Lx 500d is 6.9kmpl.

Ride quality is one of the LX’s biggest strengths. Despite riding on large 22-inch wheels, the adaptive air suspension absorbs rough roads exceptionally well. Broken surfaces are flattened effortlessly, and the soft suspension tuning gives the SUV a wonderfully cushioned feel. 
Handling, however, is less impressive. The steering feels heavy in urban conditions, and the LX pitches and rolls through corners like a traditional body-on-frame SUV. Switching into Sport modes tightens body control slightly, but the SUV still feels cumbersome compared to rivals. 
Off-road capability remains deeply impressive. With adjustable suspension height, low-range gearing and advanced terrain systems, the LX feels capable of tackling extremely difficult terrain with ease.

The LX500d comes loaded with equipment, including rear entertainment screens, heated and ventilated seats, Mark Levinson audio, multiple drive modes and extensive connected-car technology. 
Safety equipment includes ADAS features, multiple airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane assist and advanced off-road systems.