Lexus LX600 vs Lexus LX570

What's the difference?

With the hugely anticipated Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series now in showrooms, the time has come for Lexus to show off its own riff on the LC300 theme. But don’t be fooled by the LandCruiser connection, the new Lexus LX models, while perfectly equipped to tackle bush tracks, are aimed at the cashed-up urbanite who appreciates an SUV with the absolute lot.

It's been almost a decade-and-a-half since the last new Lexus LX model, and in that time, the global demand for the SUV concept has gone from strength to strength, playing into Lexus’ hands somewhat. But that doesn’t mean this clean-sheet design has ignored some innovative technologies or creative design and packaging.

The new LX range covers plenty of price territory, and can be configured to handle a huge range of user profiles. And while it remains an expensive vehicle by Australian standards, there’s no doubt that it will be taken seriously by those with the means and the need for a huge SUV with the potential for serious off-road use.

In fact, the ability to cover rough terrain in supreme comfort and without sacrificing anything in the way of creature comforts, suggests that Australia (and its hordes of recreational four-wheel drivers) was never the market Lexus had in mind for the new LX. Instead, think Middle East and North America and you’re probably getting closer to the well-head of LX inspiration.

As well as a new mechanical platform, this LX also introduces a pair of new trim levels; the F-Sport and the Ultra Luxury specification.

When you look at a Lexus LX, you see a distinct resemblance to a Toyota LandCruiser. That’s understandable given that, fundamentally, the Lexus LX is a comprehensively gussied-up Toyota LandCruiser.

Built to put the luxury brand into the large SUV game, and taking advantage of Toyota's huge product portfolio, it's clear that this is not for chucking down the side of a mountain (although it can absolutely do that if asked, as long as you're on good terms with your local paint shop).

Lexus is - or more accurately, LX buyers are - very clear about how folks use the LX: it’s a city car. So it's got all the sophisticated city looks, with skirts and bling and big shiny alloy wheels. Whether there's a point to all that is irrelevant - there are clearly people, like you, who want a posh LandCruiser.