Model Strengths:

Strong towing ability; durable truck-based layout; torquey V8 and smooth transmission; comfortable seating; extensive luxury features

Model Overview

The LX 570 is built on a sturdy truck platform that is shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser. It's powered by a 383-hp, 5.7-liter V8, hooked up to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine utilizes Dual Variable Valve Timing for smooth responsiveness through a wide rev range, and Lexus says that it produces its peak torque of 403-pound-feet at 3,600 rpm and 90 percent of that at just 2,200 rpm-which makes it well-suited to towing. Properly outfitted, the LX 570's tow rating is an impressive 7,000 pounds. The transmission includes provisions for heavy towing or off-road use and has a sequential mode for manual control. The LX 570 also comes with full-time 4-wheel drive utilizing a Torsen limited-slip locking center differential that sends 40 percent of power to the front wheels during normal driving, directing more to the front or back as needed for better grip. An active traction control system helps avert wheelspin and send power to the wheels that can use it, while the stability control aids control both on- and off-road. For more serious conditions, there's also a low range and locking differential mode. In addition to this combination of mechanical hardware and electronic aids, there are several other electronic assistants that help with difficult situations. Crawl Control helps keep momentum on tough surfaces, such as loose boulders or sand, and Hill Start Control helps start from a stop on a steep, slippery slope. Inside, the LX 570 offers three rows of seating, with big bucket seats in front with extendable lower cushions. The second row is also very spacious, with a nice high seating position and plenty of headroom. Third-row seats are better suited for kids, and they retract electrically when not needed, to a flat cargo floor. For a vehicle with such capability built in, the LX 570 handles quite well on the road-and has a relatively smooth ride and quiet interior that's worthy of the Lexus badge. Its body-on-frame construction allows isolation from jolts, while the long-travel double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup with air springs and a solid axle allows ruggedness combined with good control. An Active Height control system lowers the vehicle two inches for entry and exit or lowers it partway at highway speeds, while the Adaptive Variable Suspension system includes three modes, with a Comfort mode for very bumpy trails, a Normal mode or Sport mode for curvy roads. The LX 570 includes a total of ten airbags, including seat-mounted side airbags in the first and second rows, plus side-curtain bags for all three rows and knee bags for front occupants. Large anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist are also included. Just as any other Lexus model, the LX 570 comes with a long list of features, including many traditional luxury items and high-tech conveniences. A power rear door, push-button start, Smart Access entry, 4-zone climate control, a rear backup camera, a windshield de-icer, a navigation system, and a 9-speaker sound system with iPod and USB connectivity are all on the standard-features list. The navigation system now includes Safety Connect concierge and roadside assistance services, along with Lexus Enform information, which displays weather, traffic and stock market data. Options include a Luxury Package that brings a cooler box, semi-aniline leather upholstery, African Bubinga wood trim, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats and heated second-row seats.

Model Changes

For 2011, the Lexus LX 570 is mostly carried over unchanged, but it does receive a number of minor appearance changes. The Costa Azul Mica interior is discontinued, and black leather trim replaces gray leather; also Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim replaces Medium Brown Walnut. A heated steering wheel has been added to the available Luxury Package. And on the safety front, a brake override system now automatically reduces the throttle if the brake is pressed.

Model Value

The LX 570 is a luxurious yet tough sport-utility vehicle, and an ideal choice for those who need serious truck prowess, for towing or off-road ability. The 7,000-pound tow rating is very respectable in this class, and its tough body-on-frame construction makes it a good choice for those who frequently carry loads or go off-road. While the LX 570 is closely related to the Toyota Land Cruiser, it will appeal to those who want more luxury and the superior Lexus dealership experience.