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2006 Lexus LX 470 Preview

Revised LX Gets Updated Styling and Enhanced Safety Features

Lexus luxurious LX 470, derived from Toyotas legendary full-size Land Cruiser, is getting a much-needed power boost for the 2006 model year.

The 2,450 kilogram (5,400 pound) vehicle has long overtaxed its 235-horsepower 4.7-liter V8, especially noticeable when attempting to pass on steep grades. The updated engine delivers 40 additional horsepower for a total of 275, while torque increases from 320 lb-ft to 332.

The sophisticated V8 finds the extra power via the addition of Variable

Lexus large and luxurious LX 470 gets an engine upgrade for 2006, plus styling enhancments. (Photo: Lexus)

Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), a technology that adjusts the valve timing to enhance power delivery while improving fuel economy.

The new model also receives a freshened appearance, which includes a
revised front grille, new LED combination taillights, and new 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels. To notice these,

Modifications to the grille are subtle, with the 2006 model featuring five chromed slats compared to the 2005 models (shown) two chrome and three black slats. (Photo: Lexus)

however, youll need to be a true LX aficionado, as the updates bring new meaning to the word subtle.

Also not immediately noticeable is the addition of a tire pressure monitoring system, although this feature is an especially important safety benefit.

With the modifications, the trucks price increases by $1,770, from its current $65,225 to $66,995.

The LX 470 sees few competitors reach its lofty price

While it only seems as if Lexus has changed the lenses of its new 2006 LX 470, in actuality they incorporate new LED technology. (Photo: Lexus)

range, with only the Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz G500, Porsche Cayenne, with options, and now only in the U.S., the Hummer H1 at about twice the price, vying for well-heeled customers. BMW is expected to bring a full-size premium SUV to market next year, said to be dubbed X7, while Audis Q7, based off of the Volkswagen Touareg/Porsche Cayenne architecture, will arrive to market shortly.

It should be mentioned, though, that Volkswagens Touareg comes extremely close to offering the same high level of refinement and luxury as the Lexus for a much lower price, while Land Rovers new

The 2006 LX also gets new alloy wheels, another subtle difference when compared to the 2005 model. (Lexus)

LR3, Volvos XC90 V8, Infinitis QX56, Cadillacs Escalade and Lincolns Navigator also deliver luxurious off-road capability for substantial savings.

It should also be noted that Lexus own GX 470 is sized and priced similarly to some of the lower priced European entries, and unless something as large as the LX is needed, delivers the same level of luxury, equal off-road capability and arguably better, more updated styling.

Truly, it would be a stretch to say that the LX incorporates classic styling cues, with only Mercedes-Benzs boxy G-Class dating further back on the SUV timeline. Yet, ironically, the G-wagon is so old that its actually cool again, where the LX just looks passé. No doubt Lexus will update it when Toyota revises its long-wheelbase

While not as stylish as Land Rovers Range Rover inside, the LX 470s cabin is every bit as well put together. (Photo: Lexus)

Land Cruiser, but who knows when that will be. Mercedes will have an all-new G500, G55 AMG, and the like, available long before this occurs, making the LX even less appealing to well-off adventurers.

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