Lexus LX 500D Luxurious For Any Situation
MEDIA RELEASE, THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022
| The epitome of effortless and refined driving in any situation, whether you are inspecting the outer paddocks, taking the family skiing or driving through the inner city, the new LX 500d is built for all terrain. |
| Launching in New Zealand in March, the new Lexus LX 500d features a contemporary twin-turbo V6 diesel engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission and a wide range of improvements, including the first F Sport version of an LX. While the initial allocation of vehicles for 2022 have all been pre-sold, Lexus dealerships are taking orders for both the Limited and F Sport variants for delivery in 2023. As the final retail price for the Limited and the F Sport grade is the same at $175,900, the question of which model to purchase comes down to the customer’s needs. The seven seat Limited model offers ultimate luxury, while the five seat F Sport places more emphasis on performance and maintains a luxury cabin experience. Lexus New Zealand General Manager Andrew Davis, says the LX is about being able to move around comfortably, in any situation, in luxury. “Being able to go anywhere is a key feature of the LX 500d. But this is far more than a typical four-wheel drive SUV. It has a level of refinement that is unsurpassed – it is the ultimate luxury vehicle for more extreme kiwi lifestyles and even through rocky and rough terrain the landings are soft,” he says. The 2022 LX 500d has been given a new powerplant – a 3.3 V6 diesel twin-turbo replaces the former model’s V8 diesel engine or 5.7L petrol engine. However, torque has not been sacrificed in the search for greater fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions. Andrew Davis says the new engine is impressive. “The Lexus engineers have achieved a lower weight but have made the LX very sturdy with a lower centre of gravity. Our goal with the LX is to create a powerful and luxury SUV while continuing to improve the overall carbon emissions profile of the Lexus range. “Of course, we would love to offer a hybrid or even fully electric LX, but we are not quite there yet. The key factor is what our customers require from an LX and the availability of reliable and durable off-roading technology. Many LX 500ds will be sold to customers around the world who may drive long distances to isolated locations that don’t have access to charging stations. “Globally the LX is in high demand, and it’s no different here in New Zealand, this unfortunately means that customers can expect a wait time of over 12 months for new orders, but I can assure you it’s worth the wait,” he says. The new 3.3L twin-turbo V6 diesel engine generates improved maximum outputs of 227kW (+27) and 700Nm (+50) versus the outgoing V8 diesel. Combined fuel consumption is lower at 8.9L/100km and CO2 emissions are also lower at 235g/km*. The 2022 LX has a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg, and a Lexus Genuine towbar and trailer wiring harness is available from Lexus Authorised Stores. Many measures have been taken to save weight as a means of improving responsiveness and fuel consumption. Aluminium has been adopted for the bonnet, roof, and door panels. The use of new high-tensile strength steel in the frame, lighter seat construction, and revised suspension also contribute to the savings. The LX’s interior design is based on the ‘Tazuna’ interior cockpit concept that was first adopted for the new Lexus NX which was launched in 2021. This includes a whole new generation of connectivity, safety, and driver aids all at the drivers’ fingertips. The level of luxury and attention to detail across the interior of both models is also unsurpassed, the seven seat Limited features a hand-crafted wooden mosaic with patterns influenced by hawk feathers. The five seat F Sport has a more performance orientated interior with aluminium features inspired by patterns found on a traditional Japanese sword. Running on the largest ever factory-equipped wheels at 22”, the Limited and F Sport each have a unique alloy wheel design. The F Sport exterior design is also different from the Limited with a unique front bumper, grille, and rear bumper. *235gm/km NEDC the WLTP figures equates to 268gm/km The new LX 500d is priced at Lexus LX 500d Limited 3.3 DT 7 Seats $175,900* plus on road costs Lexus LX 500d F Sport 3.3 DT 5 Seats $175,900* plus on road costs *Lexus Recommended Retail Price -Ends- |
