The Japanese off-road aftermarket parts manufacturer, JAOS, has unveiled a customized version of the 2022 Lexus LX600 ahead of its presentation at the 2022 Tokyo Motor Show. Built as a collaboration between Lexus and JAOS, this custom LX is said to “inspire a sense of adventure for both the driver and passengers.”
This early reveal also coincides with the official release of the new-generation Lexus LX in Japan.
Established in 1985, JAOS specializes in developing and manufacturing off-road, high-performance, and aesthetic parts for SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Using a Japanese market Lexus LX600 Offroad as the base, the modifications made by JAOS give the Lexus LX600 an even more rugged and off-road-ready aesthetic.
The modified LX’s exterior features front and rear bumper skid plates made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and fender protectors with vents.
There are also door handle protectors, as well as display fenders and an exhaust tip that are not yet available for purchase.
The modified LX rides on specially developed 20-inch gold titanium Enkei wheels forged by JAOS, fitted with 285/55R20 Toyo Open Country A/T III all-terrain tires.
Revealed in October 2021 and confirmed for a local release later this year, the regular Lexus LX is based on the new Toyota LandCruiser Series 300.
It shares the same body-on-frame GA-F architecture not only with the LandCruiser but also with the redesigned full-size Tundra pickup truck.
In LX600 form, the four-wheel-drive system is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine that produces 305kW of power and 650Nm of torque. This is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This powertrain is the backbone of the LandCruiser range in the Middle East and is also used in the new-generation Tundra.
The redesigned LX will also be available in LX500d version, featuring the same 3.3-liter twin-turbo diesel V6 with 227kW/700Nm seen in the local LandCruiser lineup.
In Japan, the LX lineup also includes a VIP-grade four-seater plus an LX600 Offroad with three differential locks (front, center, and rear), an exterior black package, and 18-inch gray aluminum wheels with standard all-terrain tires.
Local specifications, pricing, and drivetrain options for the Lexus LX have not been confirmed yet.
The 2022 Tokyo Motor Show kicks off on January 14 and runs until January 16, with many automakers preparing to showcase other new cars and concepts.
Daihatsu will display two customized versions of its Atrai kei car, Honda will reveal a prototype version of its Civic Type R, Nissan will unveil its Nismo Z GT500 racer and the Mountain Base concept, Subaru will present its STI E-RA concept, and Toyota will reveal its GR GT3 concept and a tuned GR Yaris.
Mitsubishi has also revealed its Vision Ralliart concept, clearly based on the Outlander PHEV, and its K-EV concept ahead of their physical presentation at the 2022 Tokyo Motor Show.
