Lexus LX500d Drive Expertise: The Lexus LX500d calls for consideration at each flip. With its imposing dimension of over 5 meters in size and almost two meters in width, a single look will not suffice. Whereas it shares DNA with the Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus designers have unleashed their creativity, evident within the unapologetically daring large entrance grille and sharp LED headlamps. Sculpted bonnet with sturdy energy strains provides extra muscle to it.
The profile is equally spectacular, with large 22-inch wheels and robust strains that exude energy. The rear quarter, highlighted by a thick chrome band on the D-pillar, provides to its commanding presence. Although the rear is extra subdued, the tall and boxy silhouette ensures it stands out on the highway with linked LED tail-lamps.
Inside, Options & Area
Moving into the LX is a handbook affair, no fancy electrical steps right here. With one foot on the mounted facet step and a seize on the A-pillar deal with, you haul your self in. As soon as seated, the inside could go away you questioning its worth. But, it is a vital improve from its predecessor, boasting impeccable high quality and a premium really feel.
The mix of aluminum, polished wooden, and leather-based, accented by piano black trim, elevates the atmosphere. The 12.3-inch touchscreen provides seamless operation with wi-fi Apple CarPlay and important navigation options. Under, one other display shows local weather management settings and off-road knowledge.
Happily, the LX comes with bodily switches for local weather management, Decrease down on the centre console, you may discover an array of plastic buttons for capabilities just like the diff lock, traction management, and trip peak adjustment, no knurled end or metallic impact right here.
A large cooler field provides practicality, simply accommodating two one-liter bottles. Regardless of its premium value, the absence of a panoramic sunroof is notable. The digital instrument cluster feels considerably dated particularly when toggling.
The entrance seats are a spotlight. Spacious, well-cushioned, and geared up with electrical adjustment, they provide wonderful help for lengthy journeys. Options like reminiscence, heating, and air flow improve consolation, although therapeutic massage performance is absent. Moreover, the motive force’s seat boasts under-thigh adjustment, preferrred for lengthy drives.
Rear seat area falls in need of expectations. Whereas the seat cushioning is enough and the backrest could be reclined, knee room and under-thigh help is first rate. However, no therapeutic massage operate is there. Rear passengers profit from dual-zone local weather management, heated and ventilated seats, and 11.6-inch touchscreens for leisure.
Abroad, the petrol variant provides an ‘Extremely Luxurious’ pack with plush powered captain’s chairs for the center row, a function absent within the Indian model. The India-spec LX doesn’t embody a 3rd row, opting as a substitute for a spacious boot.
Powertrian & Driving Impressions
This large SUV has a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine, churning out 308hp and 700Nm of torque. Whether or not navigating metropolis streets or cruising on the freeway, the engine delivers ample energy. Overtaking is pretty simple and acceleration is easy, albeit with consideration for its dimension. Nonetheless, the diesel rumble could take some getting used to, you may hear the engine contained in the well-insulated cabin even at partial throttle.
Switching to Sport S or Sport S+ mode amplifies the efficiency, with sharper engine response, firmer suspension, and faster gear shifts. But, together with the elevated efficiency comes a louder engine observe, prompting a return to Consolation mode for a quieter trip.
10-speed computerized torque converter gearbox with shut ratios, guaranteeing swift response from a standstill and easy operation at greater gears. The transmission successfully retains you throughout the engine’s broad powerband, guaranteeing a constant provide of torque in varied driving situations. Whereas handbook mode and paddle shifters can be found, the LX is not designed for spirited driving on twisty roads.
The steering of the LX feels weighty, making maneuvers like three-point turns and parking require vital effort. Whereas switching to Sport+ mode improves dealing with considerably, it nonetheless falls quick in comparison with its rivals when it comes to dynamics. Nonetheless, the LX excels in trip high quality, due to its adaptive air suspension.
Regardless of the massive 22-inch wheels, it provides wonderful trip consolation, particularly on tough roads. The 265/50 tires successfully cushion most bumps. You’ll really feel minimal disturbance within the cabin, even over bigger obstacles. Even in sportier modes, the main focus is on lowering physique lean whereas sustaining constant bump absorption.
The suspension could be elevated throughout off-road excursions, and with options like MTS (Multi Terrain Choose) and low-range gearbox, the LX is able to tackling difficult terrain with ease. Nonetheless, contemplating its premium price ticket, not many could wish to topic its placing entrance finish to the pains of off-road adventures.
Worth & Verdict
Whereas the Lexus LX lacks a few of the luxuries present in its rivals and will not provide the identical degree of rear-seat consolation, it excels in reliability, surpassing its Western counterparts. Priced at Rs 2.8 crore (ex-showroom), it might appear steep, however its enduring worth and longevity make it a worthy funding. If you happen to’re in search of an SUV for a lifetime, lasting for generations, the LX is a worthwhile alternative.
