2021 Lexus LX 570
02/11/2022
Shahed Hussain
Among luxury SUVs, the LX 570 is a rarity, overshadowed by its American and German rivals. Replaced by a completely new 2022 LX 600, this is the last LX powered by a V-8. Despite significantly different styling the LX shares its platform with the recently discontinued Toyota Land Cruiser in the US.
Available as a single model with various option packages, the LX 570 we tested had a MSRP of $91,580. Options included a wireless charger ($75), cool box ($170), head-up display ($900), luxury package ($1,190), Mark Levinson audio system ($2,350), Inspiration Series #2 package ($2,895), and heated steering wheel ($150). Adding in the $1,295 delivery fee totaled up to $100,605.
As a flagship SUV, the LX is loaded with luxury equipment such as leather seats, power front heated seats, power second-row and third-row seats, navigation system, panoramic view monitor and moonroof. Safety technologies include radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and parking assist.
Under the hood is a 5.7L V-8 rated at 383-hp @ 5,600 RPM and 403 lb.-ft. @ 3,600 RPM. The 3UR-FE V-8 features dual overhead-cams and variable valve-timing. Coupled to the V-8 is an 8-speed automatic coupled to 3.301:1 axle ratio. The 2-speed 4WD transfer case has a 2.618:1 low gear ratio. A TORSEN(R) limited-slip center differential splits torque between the front and rear axles in the full-time 4WD system. Lexus estimates fuel consumption at 12/16 MPG (city/hwy.). We averaged 14 MPG in mixed city and highway driving.
The LX front suspension consists of double wishbones, coil spring and dampers. At the rear is a solid axle suspended with coil springs and dampers; four links and a lateral rod locate the rear axle. An electrohydraulic system adjusts suspension height and load levels automatically. Steering is via a hydraulically-assisted variable-ratio rack-and-pinion system. Brakes are vented discs at all four wheels: 13.9-in. dia. rotors (front) and 13.6-in. dia. (rear). The standard wheel/tire package is 20-in. dia. alloy wheels and 285-50R20 all-season tires. Our test vehicle was equipped with the optional 21-in. dia. alloy wheels and 275/50R21 Dunlop Grandtrek PT34 all-season tires. Curb weight is a substantial 5,800 lbs.
As expected from Lexus, interior build quality and materials are superb. The front seats are exceptionally supportive and offer multiple power adjustments. Front headroom is adequate for occupants up to 6 ft. tall. The rear seats don't skimp on comfort, providing excellent support and legroom. As with most other third-row seats, accommodations are cramped and essentially for occasional use only.
Driving the LX, it's obvious that this is a massive SUV that rewards a deliberate pace. On the highway, we preferred driving in Sport mode, as the stiffer damper settings enhance stability and steering response. Around town and over patched roads, the Comfort mode takes the edge off bumps and potholes, at the cost of a floaty ride. Unsurprisingly, leaving the suspension in Normal mode delivers the best compromise of ride and handling for most road conditions. Around curves, the LX suspension exhibits moderate understeer and body roll. Brake performance is adequate, but any heavy SUV demands care under hard braking or evasive maneuvers.
Despite its nearly 3-ton curb weight, the 5.7L V-8 delivers impressive low and midrange acceleration. Even at full throttle, the V-8 remains subdued and nearly vibration-free. The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly and is responsive using the paddle shifters, although the shift programming makes this generally unnecessary.
The replacement of the outgoing LX 570 is the end of the V-8 era for this luxury 4WD. Lexus has updated the styling for the new LX 600, but the resemblance to its predecessor is unmistakable. If this classic SUV appeals to you, it's time to start your search for a pristine LX in the used car market.
