OVERVIEW
For nearly 25 years, Lexus LX models have offered a balance of luxury, off-road capability and everyday usability. The 2019 Lexus LX570, continues that heritage, but now also offers a two-row version. That eliminates the cumbersome removal of the third row for extra cargo space, as some owners wanted. Also new for 2019 are optional outside puddle lamps now project the “Lexus” logo; a digital clock now appears in the Multi Information Display; and Lexus Reform Remote includes smart watch and Amazon Alexa skill integration. 21-inch wheels and a heated wood and leather steering wheel are options for the two-row model.
OFF-ROAD READY
The Lexus LX570 full-time four-wheel drive system employs a Torsen limited-slip locking center differential that splits the power 40:60 under normal driving conditions, with the rearward power bias contributing to on-road agility.
A four-wheel Active Traction Control system works in conjunction with the 4WD system, helping to control wheel slip. The Multi-Terrain Select system allows the driver to select terrain type — Rock, Rock & Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, or Mud & Sand –optimizing the Active Traction Control. A driver-selectable low range for the transmission provides low-speed crawling capability for handling steep off-road declines. Shifting into low range also engages Active Height Control, which raises the vehicle increasing ground clearance by two inches.
Low-range capability is further augmented by Crawl Control with Turn Assist and Hill-start Assist Control. Crawl Control manipulates the throttle and brake functions, helping to maintain a steady slow, even pace on steep declines or when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. The Hill-start Assist Control prevents the LX570 from rolling backward when moving from a stop on an incline.
The LX570’s Turn Assist feature aids in tightening the vehicle’s turning circle, applying brake force to the inside rear wheel while on trails. The Variable Gear Ratio Steering provides the 2019 Lexus LX570 with optimal steering response in slow, rugged trail driving situations and also enhances directional control in highway driving.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Adding to the comfort quotient, Lexus LX 570 comes equipped with such standard amenities as a driver’s 14-way power adjustable front seat, four-zone independent climate control, front power-seat cushion extenders, navigation system, a rear back-up camera, a power-sliding second-row seat and power-folding and retractable third-row seat.
Even getting in and out of the vehicle is made easier by the Easy Access system, which when the ignition is turned off, automatically retracts the steering wheel and moves the driver’s seat rearward. Both return to their preset memory positions the next time the driver is seated and turns on the ignition. Active Height Control, which may be engaged for off-road travel, lowers the LX570 by nearly two inches to assist when entering or exiting. Normal height resumes automatically when the vehicle begins to accelerate.
The 2019 Lexus LX570 is extremely versatile, opening up a large useful cargo area. Seating is for five in the two row version, or opt for a three row model, and the 50/50 split power-retractable third row seat folds into the floor, providing 41 cu. ft. of carrying space, and expands to 83.1 cu. ft. with the 40/20/40 split middle row folded. The clamshell-design tailgate features a power upper section, that is much more functional than a traditional one-piece hatch.
There are a host of safety touches integrated into the Lexus LX570 including ABS and EBD, plenty of air bags and a (now mandatory) rear backup camera to name just a few.
My test 2019 Lexus LX570 5-door two row SUV, came with the exterior finished in a Nebula Gray Pearl metallic, with an Ebony Charcoal interior featuring polished Dark Brown Walnut trim accents. The base price was set at $85,830. The final tally came to $87,915 after adding options and the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee.
PERFORMANCE
Many luxury buyers find that an all-wheel drive crossover fits their needs, while those requiring true off-pavement driving capability and high towing capacity find those capabilities with seating for from 5 and up to eight in the Lexus LX570. It’s a luxury SUV that can transport the entire family on an on or off-road adventure, including towing the camper along, with its standard 7,000-pound towing capacity thanks to its high-strength body-on-frame construction and more than ample power. Its 5.7-liter DOHC, 32-valve, dual VVT-I V8 engine with sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection cranks out 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm while also generating 403 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm.
That healthy amount of energy from the Lexus’ V8 is geared to the standard full-time four-wheel drive system through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Although, it is thirsty, with 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. Acceleration is still potent considering its three-ton mass. The ride quality is both smooth and solid but never harsh.
The LX570’s Adaptive Variable Suspension continually adjusts shock absorber damping rates while on the move, ensuring a maximum comfort level even as the road surface changes. Selectable Comfort, Normal and Sport modes allow the driver to tailor both the system’s ride firmness and comfort.
TFLCAR’S TAKE
With the 2019 Lexus LX570 comes the expectation for quality and dependability, and that’s backed by a comprehensive limited warranty program. If you require extremely serious, hard-core off-road maneuvering, you may want to keep looking beyond the massive Lexus. That said, the LX570 delivers versatile and sumptuous interior appointments, sure-footedness on and off- pavement, and an impressive level of technology.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2019 Lexus LX570 2-row
| On Sale: | Now |
| Base MSRP: | $85,830 |
| Price as Tested: | $88,940 |
| Engine: | 5.7-liter naturally-aspirated V8 with sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection. |
| Drivetrain (Layout): | Front engine, full-time four-wheel drive with Torsen limited slip center differential |
| Horsepower: | 383 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque: | 403 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| Transmission: | 8-speed automatic |
| Suspension: | Front: Coil spring-type double wishbone independent Rear: Four-link coil spring lateral rod-type |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four wheel discs |
| Tires: | Dunlop PT34 Grandtrek P275/50 R21 113V M&S |
| Fuel capacity: | 24.6 gallons |
| Fuel economy (EPA): | 13 City / 18 Highway / 15 Combined mpg |
Dimensions:
| Wheelbase: | 112.2 inches |
| Length: | 200.0 inches |
| Width: | 78.0 inches |
| Height: | 75.2 inches |
| Turning Circle: | 38.7 feet |
| Curb Weight: | 6,000 pounds |
