Lexus LX Inspiration Special Edition Not So Inspiring

Nov. 01, 2018 8:15 PM ET by Jared Rosenholtz Special Editions / 5 Comments

Special edition model should give aging SUV a new lease of life.

Lexus' flagship SUV, the LX 570, last received a refresh in 2016. Although the design was all-new, the Toyota Land Cruiser underpinnings weren't exactly cutting edge. Toyota hasn't hinted at a next-generation for the Land Cruiser or the LX 570 but it seems like both models are nearing the end of their current lifespans. Since the LX is mainly a niche model, it seemed like Lexus was content to leave it on the market unchanged for a few more years, capping off the end of the generation with a special edition model.

Lexus

A few months ago, we saw leaked images of an LX570 Black Edition S along with a mildly restyled Land Cruiser. We didn't know if the Black Edition S would make it the US but it looks like Lexus will instead introduce a different limited edition model called the Inspiration Series.

The LX Inspiration Series features a Black Onyx exterior with matching black 21-inch wheels for a stealthy look. The front grille is also black and the traditional bright chrome has been replaced with a darker material. Even the accents surrounding the taillights, license plate, and back door are now finished in black chrome.

Lexus

The contrasting interior is finished in an exclusive Moonlight White Semi-Aniline leather trim with a black roof liner. The Inspiration Series comes well-optioned inside with heated and ventilated front and rear seats, four-zone climate control, puddle lights that project the letters "LX" on the ground, a rear-seat entertainment system, a 19-speaker, 450-watt Mark Levinson audio system, a color HUD, a wireless charger, and a cooled center console.

Lexus will only build 500 examples starting at $100,420. No mechanical changes mean the Inspiration Series still features the same 5.7-liter V8 engine with 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque going out through an eight-speed automatic as well as the frustrating Lexus Enform infotainment system. We found the LX to be pretty dated in a segment which now includes the excellent Lincoln Navigator. Perhaps this new special edition will attract more people to the LX.