2016 Lexus LX 570 FIRST LOOK

2016 Lexus LX 570 FIRST LOOK by Auto Critic Steve Hammes

The Lexus utility vehicle lineup consists of 4 different models, 2 of which are built upon rugged SUV frames and none of which is larger or more luxurious than the LX. With a starting price north of $91,000, the 2016 LX 570 seats up to 8, weighs 3 tons, comes powered by a 383 horsepower 5.7-liter V8 and has a full-time 4-wheel drive layout.

With the exception of the door panels, the body has been completely restyled, now with a bolder front end, distinctive LED lighting, and newly available 21” wheels. Mechanically speaking, the new LX receives an upgraded 8-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous 6-speed and Drive Mode Select is onboard allowing the driver to tailor the powertrain and suspension settings via a dial on the console, ranging from ECO all the way to Sport S+.  As a result, gas mileage is improved, now rated at 13mpg city/18mpg highway on premium.

A luxury SUV with true off-road capability, the LX 570 boasts a Multi-Terrain Select System for automatic manipulation of Active Traction Control while traversing Rock, Dirt, Moguls, Mud and Sand. Furthermore, the transmission’s low range provides low-speed crawling capability with the addition of Crawl Control, Hill Start Assist and Variable Gear Ratio Steering.  Active Height Control lowers the chassis by about 2” for easy entry and exit, automatically returning to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate.

Other notable changes for 2016 include Lexus Safety System + as standard, bundling a multitude of cutting edge driver assist technologies, upgraded multimedia with a big 12.3” screen, a larger multi-information display, a standard panoramic view camera, available heads-up display, LED ambient lighting, manual 2^nd row sunshades, available wireless phone charging, larger screens for the Rear Seat Entertainment Syetem, and available cooled and heated rear seats.  The new Lexus Enform Service Connect can even convey the vehicle’s maintenance needs to the owner via a mobile app.  When the ultimate Lexus SUV experience calls, the LX 570 awaits.