2018 Lexus LX 570 Review

Lexus stunned the automotive world in 1989, with the debut of the LS 400 sedan. Lexus produced, what was too many, a flawless sedan. Since then the Lexus name has been amongst the world prestige brands.

It has developed from nothing AWD SUV’s in the RX and NX range but for their premium 4WD SUV they have relied on the ubiquitous Landcruiser underpinnings. This brings many advantages and some disadvantages for the LX570.  Make no mistake, the LX570 is a genuine 4WD SUV though.

Exterior

Externally, LX570 carries through the Lexus familial style though with the nose and grill, some extra features around the rear light binnacle and wheel and tyre combinations. The 20-inch standard alloys also feature a bright, machined finish with a sophisticated, multi-spoke design. They run 285/50R20 tyres. Both the auto levelling LED headlamps and daytime running lamps illuminate in an L-shape to express strong brand identity.

Interior

In typical Lexus fashion the interior is packed with features and function. Recent upgrades include new steering wheel, console storage, full instrument panel, door trims, ornamentation, instrument display, multimedia screens and seats.

The driver’s seat has a 12-way power function for the reclining angle, lumbar support, vertical adjuster and cushion front. It is superbly comfortable. The front passenger seat has a 10-way power function to meet individual preferences.

The electronically adjusted steering wheel provides comfort and increases functionality with a new control switch layout. The dash is clear, easy to read and houses a 4.2-inch TFT display screen. There is also an adjustable HUD with current speed and navigational waypoints.

Driving-related switches, including off-road system controls, are positioned in the centre console while comfort-related switches are positioned on either side to enhance operability. However all this switch gear means that small storage areas are at a premium?

Rear passengers are treated to reasonable space and luxurious features via a rear console panel that enables adjustment of the climate control and seat heating and cooling. New high definition 11.3-inch entertainment screens are installed on the front seat-backs for rear seat entertainment.

In the third row of seats there are A.C vents, cup holders and room for pre-teen children. However the third row seats, even though they are electric fold up and down, intrude on the available space for the boot. A poor design that Toyota continues to persevere with.

Features

A 12.3-inch multimedia display features at the top of the centre stack to provide crisp, high definition for controlling vehicle functions, including the 19 speaker Mark Levinson audio system and climate controls. This display also shows the back monitor with four-camera Multi Terrain Monitor (MTM) and Panoramic View Monitor (PVM).

Other Lexus features include:

• four-seat independent control air conditioning,
• front cool box,
• front seat heaters,
• illuminated smart entry system with smart key card and smart start,
• optional ventilated/heated rear seats,
• LED ambient lighting in cabin and cargo area,
• touch-sensor overhead lighting,
• manual second-row sunshades and
• wireless charging tray for Qi-compatible phones

Drive and Engine

The heart of the Lexus LX570 is the 5.7L quad cam V8 petrol engine. This beast produces power of 270kW and torque of 530Nm. This runs through a new eight speed automatic transmission that improves the responsiveness and fuel economy.

The new LX 570 has a newly adopted Drive Mode Select. Drive Mode Select allows LX 570 drivers to adjust key vehicle systems to suit their driving style and preferences. Those five modes are NORMAL, ECO, COMFORT, SPORT S, and SPORT S+.

Lexus LX570 has 4WD capability second to none in the prestige SUV segment.

LX 570 offers a Wide View Front and Side Monitor system as standard for off-road driving. The monitor allows the driver to identify – via cameras mounted in the grille and passenger-side mirror – potential objects that may be obscured from view. This provides a clear view of the front and passenger side of the vehicle.

LX570 will tow 3500kg with ease and with a tow ball rating of 350kg there isn’t much it won’t trail behind. However the petrol engine will be thirsty when towing. Diesels are simply better for that.

Safety

As you would expect, safety features play an important part in the LX570 story with Lexus Safety System+. The Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) combines four driver-assist technologies. These include pre-collision safety system (PCS), all-speed active cruise control (ACC), lane keeping assist (LKA) system (lane departure warning) and automatic high beam system (adaptive high-beam system (AHS)

The new model adopts a raft of additional active safety technology including: 10 SRS airbags, head-up display (HUD), blind spot monitor (BSM), rear cross traffic alert (RCTA), individual tyre pressure warning system (TPWS) and autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

Good Bits:

• Luxury features
• Towing and 4WD ability
• Value for money

Not So Good Bits

• No diesel or Hybrid option
• Poor fuel economy
• Fold up rear seats – seriously?

Summary

There is one enhancement pack available for LX 570, which includes 21-inch high grade alloy wheels, heated steering wheel, front seat ventilation and second row seat heater and ventilation for an additional $16,500.

The Lexus LX570 is unique amongst prestige SUV’s in that it combines a level of luxury expected (and beyond in some cases) with the only true robust 4WD capability. This capability comes at the expense of a limousine ride. The choice is yours as to what is more important.

Facts and Figures: 2018 Lexus LX 570 4WD SUV

• Engine: 5.7L V8 Petrol 270kW/530Nm
• Transmission: Eight-speed AT 4WD
• Safety: Five stars
• Origin: Japan
• Warranty: 4 yrs/100,000km

• Price: From $154,310 RDAP