Lexus LX 600 by JAOS finished the 2022 Baja 1000
Aside from Toyota conquering Dakar, Lexus also joined the Baja 1000 with a modified LX 600
A few days ago, Toyota clinched its 2nd straight win at this year's Dakar Rally. Not only were they able to grab the victory with a Hilux, but the automaker also proved that the Land Cruiser 300 can take on the road less traveled with ease.
With the LC proving its worth in one of the most difficult rally races in the world, there was also another modified SUV that competed in a grueling desert rally, and it has an L badge instead of a T. Say hello to the Lexus LX 600 “Offroad” Team JAOS, and it recently joined 2022 Baja 1000.
The vehicle you see here joined the 1,000-mile (or 1,600 km) non-stop race and was modified for the “Stock Full Class” (AKA unmodified production vehicle class) regulations. While it looks badass as it is, Lexus says Team JAOS' primary focus was on safety enhancements while ensuring its capability in the field.
For starters, it comes with a full roll-cage to protect the occupants in case of a rollover, Toyota Boshoku sport seats, and an ICE Fuse & wire, bolt & battery terminal. It also comes with off-road jacks and recovery traction boards in case the vehicle gets stuck.
On the exterior side of things, it's fitted with overfenders made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic, chassis underguards, front & rear tube bumpers, and mudguards. For extra visibility at night, the LX is also equipped with an IPF LED light bar.
In order for the vehicle to handle the harsh terrain, the LX comes with JAOS Tribe Cross 17x8.0+20 racing spec wheels that are shod in Toyo Open Country R/T tires that measure 35x12.5 R17. Last but not least, this rally-ready LX gets racing-spec coil springs and KYB VF-R shocks.
While the LX locally is known as the posher and more luxurious version of the Land Cruiser, Lexus and JAOS were able to prove that, like its Dakar-going cousin, the LX can also hold its own in rally racing.
