Lexus India has launched its premium LX 500d SUV in the Indian market with prices starting at Rs 3 crore positioning it among the most expensive luxury SUVs available in the country. The vehicle, available in Urban and new adventure-focused Overtrail variants, marks a significant expansion of the brand's high-end portfolio following its showcase at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo earlier this year.
The LX 500d is powered by a 3.3L V6 diesel engine with a twin turbo system and features the Lexus Safety System +3.0, which includes collision prevention technology, radar cruise control, and lane assist functions. The vehicle also includes Lexus Connect Technology with remote services accessible via smartphone.
"The LX 500d exemplifies our unwavering dedication to deliver in luxury and performance," said Tanmay Bhattacharya, Executive Vice-President of Lexus India, in the announcement.
The Overtrail grade, introduced for the first time, features exclusive exterior elements including a black radiator grille, matte grey aluminum wheels, and a special "Moon Desert" color option. It also comes equipped with front and rear differential locks for off-road capabilities, in addition to the standard center differential lock.
Interior options for the LX Urban grade include Hazel and Crimson color schemes, designed using traditional Japanese Takumi craftsmanship, while the Overtrail model features a unique Khaki interior with Monolith themed upholstery.
Lexus entered the Indian market in 2017 and has been expanding its luxury offerings since then. The company recently introduced an 8-year/160,000 km vehicle warranty for all new models sold in India from June 2024, along with a 5-year Roadside Assistance program launched in February 2024.
The luxury automaker also offers service packages under its Lexus Luxury Care program, with options ranging from 3 years/60,000 km to 8 years/160,000 km, aimed at providing comprehensive maintenance coverage for owners.
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, entered the Indian market with a portfolio tailored for the premium market, focusing heavily on hybrid technology and Japanese craftsmanship. As of March 06, 2025, the brand offers a concise yet diverse range of vehicles targeting affluent buyers who value sustainability alongside luxury, positioning itself against giants like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi.
The lineup starts with the ES sedan, priced between ₹64.00 lakh and ₹69.70 lakh, a 2.5L hybrid producing 215 hp. Known as Lexus’ top seller in India, it delivers exceptional fuel efficiency at 22.5 kmpl and features premium touches like a Mark Levinson audio system, competing directly with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. Moving to SUVs, the NX, ranging from ₹68.02 lakh to ₹74.98 lakh, offers a 2.5L hybrid powertrain with 240 hp, blending sharp design and advanced tech like a 14-inch touchscreen to challenge the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
For those seeking a bolder crossover, the RX, priced from ₹99.99 lakh to ₹1.19 crore, brings a 3.5L V6 hybrid with 308 hp, combining striking aesthetics and a refined ride to rival the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE. Rounding out the portfolio is the LM, a luxury MPV priced between ₹2.10 crore and ₹2.62 crore, with a 2.5L hybrid and options for 4- or 7-seat layouts, targeting chauffeur-driven comfort in a class above the Mercedes V-Class.
Lexus operates eight dealerships across cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, selling around 1,250 units in 2024—modest compared to Mercedes’ 19,565 or BMW’s 15,012. Its hybrid focus, local assembly of the ES, and an 8-year warranty set it apart, though high pricing and a late market entry limit its share. Future concepts like the electric LF-ZC hint at expansion, but for now, Lexus thrives as a niche player blending efficiency, elegance, and innovation in India’s luxury car scene, which hit 51,200 units in 2024.