The Lexus LX 570 is the full-size SUV from Toyota’s luxury brand. It’s a large and comfortable SUV that also boasts capable off-roading prowess, which you might not expect from a Lexus. However, it’s starting to show its age and some rivals can offer better handling and a much more user-friendly infotainment system.
The LX 570 was introduced for the 2008 model year and got refreshed in 2016. A two-row version was introduced for 2018, and for 2019 there are no major changes.
The LX 570 is currently available in just one trim in two-row and three-row models. The two-row model starts at $85,830 and seats five passengers. My tester with three rows starts at $90,830 and seats eight passengers. This base price is a bit higher than some rivals, but the LX 570 is packed with many standard features that cost more on competitors.
The LX 570 is powered by a V8 that makes 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It performs fine for everyday driving situations but can feel a bit leisurely when you’re trying to quickly accelerate. And you may wish for more power when the LX 570 is loaded up with passengers, dogs and gear for that family road trip. There’s noticeable body lean when cornering and the wide turning radius can make it challenging to park in tight spots. The LX 570 is best at providing a quiet, smooth and comfortable ride, not a sporty one. Visibility is good all the way around.
When properly equipped, the LX 570 can tow up to 7,000 pounds. Many rivals can do better.
Most buyers are probably not going to venture on extreme off-roading adventures. But the LX 570 is more than capable of tackling challenging terrain with its body-on-frame structure. There’s a multi-terrain system that lets you choose between Rock, Rock and Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, and Mud and Sand. Low-range gearing provides slow-speed crawling capability for handling steep off-road hills and uneven terrain. And you’ll be bathed in comfort all the while you explore the rugged backcountry.
Fuel economy is low even for a large SUV. EPA ratings for my tester are 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway with a combined rating of 15. I got 13 during my week with a mix of city and highway driving.
The interior features upscale materials including top quality leather and real wood trim. Seats in the first two rows are roomy and comfortable, while the third row is best suited for kids, as is usually the case in three-row SUVs.
The LX 570 is well equipped. Standard features include quad-zone automatic climate control, leather-trimmed seats and upholstery, wood trim, 14-way power driver seat, 12-way power front passenger seat, moonroof, infotainment system with a 12.3-inch display, Lexus Remote Touch controller, nine-speaker audio system, satellite radio, USB ports, Bluetooth and navigation.
Standard driver assistance features include a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic braking.
Available features include a rear-seat DVD/entertainment system, wireless smartphone charging, heated steering wheel, cooled center console, head-up display and a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
The weak spot is the infotainment system. The Remote Touch Controller seems like it should be intuitive since it uses a mouse-like controller that lets you scroll over the menus. Unfortunately it’s not easy to use in real life because requires delicate finger movements that are difficult if not almost impossible to do safely while driving. I mostly avoided using the controller and instead used the redundant physical buttons and knobs to control most functions.
My tester has the optional rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch screens, one on the back of each front seat. The kiddies are sure to be entertained for hours!
The LX 570 has less cargo space than many rivals. There are 9.1 cubic feet with all three rows in place, 27.3 with the third row folded, and 44.7 cubes with the second and third rows folded down. One issue is that the third row seats fold sideways instead of forward so the seats still eat up a lot of cargo space when they’re not in use. At least the third row seats can be easily moved individually with just a push of button. A power liftgate is standard.
The good:
One well-equipped trim is offered with good value for the class
This is a real SUV with excellent off-roading capability
Comfortable ride
Long list of standard features
The not-so-good:
Handling not as athletic as some competitors
Infotainment system needs improvement
Poor fuel efficiency for the class
Less cargo room than many rivals
Pricing info:
My tester starts at $90,830. Wireless charger is $75. Cooled center console is $170. 21-inch split-10-spoke Alloy wheels with black and machined finish are $745. Head up Display is $900. Luxury Package is $1,190 and includes leather-trimmed interior with contrast stitching, heated and ventilated front and rear second row seats, and LX projector door lamps. The Mark Levinson audio system with 19 speakers, surround sound and DVD audio and video playback is $2,350. Heated Espresso steering wheel is $150. Delivery fee is $1,295 bringing the grand total to $99,710.
Bottom line:
The LX 570 is comfortable and large and offers good value for the money with its long list of standard features. And it’s the real deal when it comes to off-roading. But the infotainment system is a drawback and some rivals offer better performance and more cargo space. So you’ll want to shop around before making a final choice.
