Lexus Trademarks LX600: More Power on the Way?
The Lexus LX is getting a bit long in the tooth, but it looks like the automaker might have big plans for a future redo.
Something Significant?
Companies file patents and trademarks all the time for all sorts of things. Sometimes, these filings produce a real-world product. Other times, well, they don't. But it sure seems like Lexus' recent trademark filing for the model name LX600 might turn into something rather significant for potential buyers in the full-size luxury SUV world.
Photos: Lexus
Connect the Dots
We must consider the fact that in the automotive world, model number designations don't always pertain to engine displacement as they once did. But one vehicle that does, is the current Lexus LX570, which packs a 5.7-liter V8. It makes a lot of sense for Lexus to bump up this current engine's displacement for a future replacement, which justifies our theory of a 6.0-liter V8 in the future LX600.
Photos: Lexus
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Long in the Tooth
We must also consider that a major update is most certainly due to the LX. It's currently the oldest Lexus SUV and crossover in the automaker's lineup after arriving in 2008 and receiving a refresh in 2015. It's also one of the last body-on-frame SUVs left in the world, along with its twin - the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser.
Photos: Lexus
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Pure Speculation
Still, there's no telling what Lexus really has planned for the LX. They might stuff a more powerful 6.0-liter in a slightly refreshed model and call it a day. Or, they might just slap the LX600 badge on a significantly new vehicle that packs a smaller, forced-induction engine. At this point, it's all pure speculation.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the changing LX right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
Hybrid or No?
The only thing we know for sure is that since it doesn't have an "h" behind it, we doubt this new model would feature a hybrid powertrain. Regardless, it wouldn't be all that surprising to see Lexus ditch its big naturally-aspirated V8 and replace it with a twin-turbo V6 or mild hybrid-assisted six-cylinder like much of the competition is doing.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the changing LX right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
Wait and See
Lexus just filed its LX600 trademark in October, and it often takes several months for the trademark office to grant permissions for these filings. Thus, we wouldn't expect to see this mysterious new model for some time. In the meantime, we'll have to wait and see what Lexus has up its sleeve.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the changing LX right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
Here's Hoping
Still, it's no surprise that Toyota and Lexus are planning on some sort of LX overhaul. Hopefully, whatever they decide to do, both the Land Cruiser and LX will retain their legendary off-road capability. With any luck, the bulk of changes will revolve around improved tech and perhaps just a bit more power under the hood.
Photos: Lexus
>>Join the conversation about the changing LX right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
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