Do we really need to see another evolution of a full sized luxury SUV hit theroad in our greenhouse environment coupled with diminishing fossil fuels? Lexus seems to think so, with their unveiling of the all-new redesigned LX 570. This third generation LX series now comes equipped with a bigger 5.7-liter V8 and larger exterior shell.
Like an elephant in a fine china shop, it seems out of place nowadays to be seen sporting around the urban jungle in a gas guzzling behemoth, especially with fuel prices hovering over $3 per gallon. It's almost as taboo as wearing fur, which is probably why the vehicle is geared towards the near do wells of society who aren't shy about flaunting their status symbols. Directly targeted against the Range Rover, Cadillac's Escalade, Lincoln's Navigator, Infiniti's QX56 and Mercedes' GL Class, the LX rejoins this upper echelon of ultra luxurious, gadget filled luxury | The Lexus that most people forgot - the big LX - is back. (Photo: Lexus)
| SUVs. Vice President and General Manager of Lexus US, Bob Carter explained during the New York Auto Show, “LX customers have traditionally been our most affluent—professionals with families who add the LX to their stable of vehicles for its luxurious utility, versatility and capability.”
At first glance, the new LX 570 has grown out of its conservative box-like styling shell into a slightly less boxy, more organic shell. The LX profile actually reminds me of the current Toyota Highlander, but on steroids. Now measuring 196.5 inches long by 77.6 inches wide and 74.4 inches | | What was once big and boxy, now features soft curves. The style mimics that of the big LS. (Photo: Lexus) | high, the LX 570 has a wheelbase of 112.2 inches and is four inches longer and one inch wider than its predecessor. Replacing the quad headlights are new stylishly integrated adaptive front headlamps that better match the overall cleaner yet aggressive lines of the hood and chrome grille. The muscular profile is enhanced with creased fenders and bulging wheel arches, plus integrated side steps. The athletic side moldings on the lower side doors are reminiscent of a treatment used on the Audi S4 and Porsche Cayenne. From the rear, chrome accents surround the taillights and license plate trim, giving theLX an upscale look. The power liftgate opens up a la Volvo XC90, with the top door lifting | | Two-piece tailgate also features an auto-close. (Photo: Lexus) | up and the tailgate folding flat to allow for easy access to the cargo area.
As mentioned, the LX 570 is now equipped with the current Toyota Tundra powerplant that produces 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) features some electronic engine management gadgetry that mildly assists in the fuel economy department. Whereas the previous model was equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, the new LX 570 will be mated to a six-speed sequential-shift automatic. With 8,500 pounds of towing capacity, it's the ideal yacht puller.
|