The first details upon the 2022 Lexus LQ are indicating the company has a new flagship SUV. Well, the Japanese carmaker is already one of the most popular luxury brands. Sales are showing that without doubts. But, the impression is that Lexus is missing something extravagant. Bold styling, powerful engine, anything special that can set some challenges to the most luxurious vehicles in the segment. Of course, we mean on German manufacturers and their high-end products. The LQ will be able to go against BMW M and Mercedes AMG versions thanks to the aggressive design and more than 600 hp under the bonnet.
There are still a lot of questions without answers. First of all, we can’t see what is going to produce so much power. But, the carmaker registered the LX 600 nameplate. Usually, the number indicates the displacement volume. In this case, it could show the amount of power we could see. The 2022 Lexus LQ is also rumored to use the same drivetrain. Toyota, Lexus’ owner, already presented the new unit for the Tundra truck. It won’t be the only novelty for the 2022 season.
The LQ SUV is going to be based on the LF-1 Limitless concept presented two years ago. Big expectations are still there. Now, there is a new nameplate in the mix, and way closer to production. It will start a new chapter in the evolution of Lexus vehicles. Soon after 2022 LQ, we’ll see other SUVs and crossovers out with fresh styling, interior, and upgraded specs.
Interior, Dimensions, 7-Seater
A few sources are offering an explanation of where the 2022 Lexus LQ is replacing the LX (DriveTribe). In this case, the upcoming SUV would become the next full-size model with three rows of seats. Its dimensions will be similar to the current LX. But, on the other hand, the speculations are not confirmed. Other sources claim the LQ is going to be smaller, but with more advanced features and technologies, as well as the more powerful unit. It will all lead to a higher price, especially if you are after the top of the lineup packages.
Anyway, the dimensions of the 2022 Lexus LQ will put it into a mid- or full-size class. The LF-1 Limitless concept will need a lot of modifications. The prototype debuted with two-door layout. The LQ is going to be a seven-seater. Possibly, the carmaker will offer captain’s buckets for the middle row. Also, high-end trim could drop the rear row.
2022 Lexus LQ F Sport
Speaking of the most anticipated version in the lineup, that will definitely be the 2022 Lexus LQ F, or F-Sport. Usually, it brings cosmetic upgrades, making SUVs more attractive, while the drive is boosted only with better suspensions and brakes. In this case, the company will upgrade the outputs and the LQ F will be ready to burst 600 horsepower. There are no too many other SUVs capable of doing this. It is obvious that Lexus wants to join the exclusive club, alongside Mercedes AMG, Porsche, Lamborghini…
The question is what type of engine the company is going to install under the bonnet. Some say a high-output twin-turbo V8 is under development. This is something we see on the abovementioned carmakers and their 600+ hp rated SUVs. Still, there are no precise details about outputs and the size of the base unit.
2022 Lexus LQ Release Date – When Will the New SUV be Available?
The LQ is definitely debuting as the 2022 YM, company chiefs confirm. That means the debut should happen this year. Lexus is probably waiting and monitoring the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, hopefully, things will get back to normal soon. Then, the carmaker is going to reserve the spot at some big auto show, if possible. The 2022 Lexus LQ F will follow the base model in a few months. It is a highly anticipated version and it will need special attention.
Price
This is one of the areas where we heard official plans. The Lexus LQ is not going to be cheaper than $80,000 in the base fore. It fits into the story about the size. The upcoming SUV will either replace the LX, which starts at the same level, or it will be more luxurious version of the GX. The F Sport and its 600+ hp will enter the six-digit price realm. As the upcoming rival to Mercedes AMG and BMW M SUVs, expect the LQ to end somewhere between $110,000 and $130,000.
