Even with the increase of cross over utility vehicles now found on the market, there is still a segment of the market that wants, and very often needs a full size SUV. Many times, that want is for the top of the line model, and very often the top of the luxury line. It is at this point of that the segment starts to vary between being focused on functionality and or luxury with a few trying to conquer both. The 2014 Lexus LX 570 is one of the luxury SUVs on the market that continues to be functional as an SUV whether towing a heavy trailer, doing a little light-duty off-road work, or riding in luxury to soccer practice, and even a full dress night out at the opera.
The third generation 2014 Lexus LX 570 remains virtually unchanged on the Toyota Land Cruiser platform as a functional SUV, so it does have the comfort, convenience and luxury that is expected from a Lexus vehicle. The LX 570 continues the brand reputation for being well built with luxury materials, new features, as well as fit and finish.
The LX 570 rolls on a set of 20-inch alloy wheels that support an adaptive suspension which includes automatic load leveling, automatic xenon headlights, a set of foglights, power-folding outside mirrors that are heated, a sunroof, running boards, a power liftgate, and keyless entry with pushbutton ignition.
On the interior of the eight passenger LX 570, there is a four-zone automatic climate control system that can be managed from the touchscreen interface that also serves as the rearview camera view screen. There is a navigation system with voice controls, the Lexus Enform suite of app-based services provides a variety of applications, Bluetooth phone, and audio connectivity with a standard nine-speaker audio system that includes a CD changer, satellite radio, HD radio with an iPod/USB audio interface. Along with mahogany trim pieces, the leather material covers the power front seats that are heated with driver seat memory, and there is a a 60/40-split reclining second-row seat that also has power adjustment. The much smaller third row seat is a 50/50 design that folds up to the sides instead of down in the floor or folding forward and encroaches on the available cargo floor space.
To power the large SUV, under the hood is a 5.7-liter V8 engine backed by a six speed automatic transmission and when properly equipped, the LX 570 has a tow rating up to 7,000 pounds. Additional features that make the big SUV driver friendly include the full-time four-wheel-drive system with adaptive air suspension, hill-start assist, crawl control and a driver-selectable multi-terrain system.
Driving the LX 570 around town creates the feel of driving a big vehicle, which it is. Driving the open road however, the large vehicle covers the miles of concrete down IH10 easily with a wideopen driver view due to the elevated seating positions that can be found throughout the seating arragnements. The V8 provides ample power in both scenarios, but at a cost. The standard engine and transmission combination in the LX 570 is rated at 12 mpg city/17 mpg highway/14 mpg combined.
Pricing
The 2014 Lexus LX 570 starts at an MSRP near $82,000, with additional feature packages pushing the price up quickly from there. The Luxury Package brings in items such as the second row heated and cooled seats, while the awesome Mark Levinson audio system is a standalone option at $2,350.00. The review vehicle also included the Intuitive Park Assist with Wide-view Front and Side Monitor that produces a picture of the vehicles surrounding area, as well as the Dual-Screen DVE entertainment system with wireless headsets. With options installed, and a $910 destination fee, the Lexus 570 rolled IN the Drive at $89,555.00.
Other vehicles in the segment to consider are the Mercedes-Benz GL350 and Audi Q7, Infiniti QX80, Cadillac Escalade,
For more information on the 2014 Lexus LX 570, please visit your local Lexus dealer or online at www.lexus.com
