2017 Lexus LX450d review, test drive

What is it like to drive?

This SUV has been introduced in India with only one engine option, the 4,461cc, V8 diesel that produces 265hp and 650Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The power and torque figures are much lower than its nearest price competitor – the Range Rover, whose V8 diesel makes 340hp and 740Nm of torque. Also, the LX’s kerb weight of around 3 tonne dulls the performance a fair bit. The moment you put your foot down on the accelerator, there’s a bit of a pause and then this engine begins to build speed. Part throttle responses can occasionally confuse the gearbox and it takes some time to select the correct ratio. This engine is quite noisy for a V8, but thanks to the sound deadening, you won't hear more than a faint diesel rumble inside. One of the reasons for this is the engine’s low idling revs that keep shuttling between merely 500 and 750rpm every 10 seconds, as the AC compressor kicks in and out. Once on the move, the drone is noticeably audible inside the cabin and contrary to the refined nature Lexus vehicles are known for, this one gets vocal as the revs build.

The LX450d behaves like a typical old-school body-on-frame SUV. It rides well over rough patches and doesn’t require one to slow down over bad sections of roads. It’ll iron out the surface pretty well but there’s an ever-present lumpiness you just can’t ignore. There are plenty of body movements too. This SUV comes with ‘adaptive variable suspension’ that varies the stiffness based on the five driving modes – Normal, Eco, Comfort, Sport S and Sport S+. The modes make a noticeable difference to the steering, ride and throttle responses. However, it’s still far from being sporty due to its 1.8m height and body weight. There’s a noticeable body roll around bends and it feels quite top heavy. Even under braking, there’s lots of dive and you can feel the bulk of the vehicle. However, on the straights, this car is absolutely rock solid and will effortlessly munch on the kilometres.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to test the off-road capabilities of this car. But there’s no denying that the Toyota LC200, the car upon which the LX is based, is renowned for being one of the toughest and best off-roaders in the world.