The Lexus LX 500d stands as a pinnacle of luxury and rugged capability in the premium full-size SUV segment. Melding absolute refinement with unstoppable off-road prowess, this diesel luxury cruiser offers an commanding presence on the road. Combining a high-torque twin-turbo powertrain with a meticulously crafted cabin, the LX 500d serves as an elite choice for enthusiasts seeking both prestige and reliable engineering.
High-End Luxury Meets Power: Performance and Drivetrain
At the heart of the Lexus LX 500d is a formidable 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine. Displacing 3346 cc, this 6-cylinder powerhouse delivers a peak power output of 304.41 bhp at 4000 rpm and an astonishing 700 Nm of torque available between 1600 and 2600 rpm.
The engine is paired with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission that channels output to all four wheels via a full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) setup. This combination allows the massive 2750 kg luxury SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8 seconds, onward to a top speed of 210 km/h.
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| Feature | Specification |
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| Engine Type | 3.5-liter V6 Twin-Turbo Diesel |
| Displacement | 3346 cc |
| Max Power | 304.41 bhp @ 4000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 700 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
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Fuel efficiency reflects the vehicle’s massive footprint and heavy-duty capabilities, returning a city mileage of approximately 5 kmpl and stretching up to 6.9 kmpl on the highway. An 80-liter fuel tank ensures an extended driving range for long-distance cruising.
Impeccable Capability: Dimensions and Suspension
Built to conquer diverse terrains while isolating occupants from harsh road conditions, the LX 500d features front and rear multi-link suspension systems integrated with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). This setup continuously alters damper rates to balance body control and ride plushness across its 5 drive modes (Normal, Eco, Comfort, Sport S, Sport S+), alongside a customizable mode.
- Length: 5100 mm
- Width: 1990 mm
- Height: 1895 mm
- Wheelbase: 3264 mm
- Ground Clearance (Unladen): 205 mm
- Turning Radius: 6 meters
With an unladen ground clearance of 205 mm, the SUV safely navigates deep ruts, rough patches, and desert sand dunes. Huge 265/50R22 radial tubeless tyres wrapped around premium alloy wheels provide a solid contact patch and add immense road presence.
First-Class Cabin Comfort and Next-Gen Technology
Inside the cabin, the LX 500d provides a 5-seater layout wrapped in premium leather upholstery. Front occupants enjoy powered adjustable seating (10-way for the driver, 8-way for the passenger) complete with memory functions, lumbar support, and full seat ventilation. The rear seats feature a power tumble design along with dedicated center armrest storage.
Infotainment and Sound
Entertainment and vehicle management are controlled via a dual-screen layout on the center console. This features a primary 31.24 cm (12.3-inch) Electro Multi-Vision (EMV) multimedia touchscreen display alongside a secondary 17.78 cm (7-inch) EMV drive dynamics screen.
The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Audiophiles will appreciate the bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound System, which pumps audio through an incredible 25-speaker matrix. Rear passengers are treated to a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system featuring dual 11.6-inch touch displays, an HDMI jack, and independent headphone connections.
Convenience Highlights
- Four-zone automatic climate control with a pollen removal air purifier.
- Leather-and-wood heated steering wheel with integrated paddle shifters.
- Ambient illuminated entry system across the lounge, shifter, and scuff plates.
- Multi-Information Display utilizing an 8-inch color TFT LCD unit.
- Head-Up Display (HUD) keeping vital driving data within the driver’s line of sight.
Uncompromised Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Lexus places a massive emphasis on safety, loading the LX 500d with active and passive protective technologies. The chassis is guarded by 10 airbags as standard, alongside comprehensive electronic aids.
Advanced Safety Equipment
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- Hill Assist and Hill Descent Control.
- Blind Spot Monitor with dedicated Blind Spot Cameras.
- Panoramic View 360-degree camera system paired with a Multi-Terrain Monitor using 4 wash-equipped cameras.
- Clearance and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Pricing, Variants, and Regional Costs
The Lexus LX 500d serves as a core base variant for the luxury flagship lineup in India. In New Delhi, the model carries an ex-showroom price of ₹2,80,00,000.
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| Price Component | Amount (INR) |
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| Ex-Showroom Price | Rs. 2,80,00,000 |
| RTO Charges | Rs. 35,00,000 |
| Insurance (Estimated) | Rs. 11,08,970 |
| TCS & Others | Rs. 2,80,00,000 |
| On-Road Price (New Delhi) | Rs. 3,28,88,970 |
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Buyers can choose from four distinct exterior paint finishes: Moon Desert, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, and Sonic Quartz.
Regional On-Road Pricing Comparison
On-road pricing varies across states due to fluctuating local registration taxes and RTO levies:
- Chandigarh: Rs. 3.27 Cr*
- Mumbai / Pune: Rs. 3.36 Cr*
- Bangalore / Hyderabad: Rs. 3.44 Cr*
- Chennai: Rs. 3.50 Cr*
- Kochi: Rs. 3.55 Cr*
Conclusion
The Lexus LX 500d is a phenomenal testament to luxury engineering, seamlessly handling everything from smooth urban highways to demanding cross-country expeditions. It pairs a high-torque V6 twin-turbo diesel powertrain with an opulent, high-tech interior designed to shield its occupants from the outside world. While its premium price tag places it in an exclusive echelon of automotive luxury, the return in sheer presence, refinement, and legendary reliability makes it a definitive symbol of prestige.
What are your thoughts on this ultra-luxury twin-turbo diesel cruiser? Let us know your opinions on the Lexus LX 500d in the comments below!