Used 2014 Lexus LX

As the largest and most powerful luxury SUV in the Lexus stable, the 2014 LX 570 has to live up to some pretty big responsibilities. Although based on the same platform as the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX carries a longer list of standard luxury equipment. Offering both refinement and brute force, the LX can comfortably shuttle its passengers while simultaneously getting down and dirty. The LX 570’s advanced terrain-response system allows it to tackle all manner of off-road obstacles, while its 7,000-pound tow rating should be able to handle most needs. Of course, the LX 570 doesn’t come cheap, and its big V8 engine returns some pretty anemic fuel-economy figures promising a hefty monthly fuel bill.

The 2014 Lexus LX 570 is big in every way. Weighing more than a Cadillac Escalade, the LX nevertheless manages its weight with ease, remaining firmly planted when moving at high speeds and demonstrating surprising agility in the turns. The LX’s body-on-frame construction adds to the weight issue, but is also the impetus for the big Lexus’ strength. And, while the LX’s ride isn’t as smooth or compliant as a unit-body design, Lexus’ 3-mode Adaptive Variable Suspension (Comfort, Normal or Sport) does a good job mitigating harshness. The LX’s 5.7-liter V8 can propel it to 60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, which is an impressive feat in itself. Off-road, the LX 570 is truly at home, with a 2-speed transfer case, a locking center differential and five terrain settings (rock, rock & dirt, mogul, loose rock or mud & sand) to tackle nearly every off-road eventuality.

The 2014 Lexus LX 570 provides three rows of seats and can fit up to eight passengers. The 2nd-row seats fold and tumble forward. Unlike most other 3rd-row seats, those in the LX 570 do not fold forward but to the sides. This creates a flat load floor, but eats up valuable room on the sides. Both rear rows are power-operated, a real help when you don’t have the strength or inclination to wrestle with seats. Legroom is good in the second row, but tight and adult-unfriendly in the third. The heated front seats are plush and also available with ventilation for hot days. Four-zone climate control, meanwhile, is standard for further passenger comfort.

The Lexus LX 570 for 2014 retains its traditional SUV looks. In other words, it’s boxy, bold and rugged. Like its sibling the Toyota Land Cruiser, the Lexus bucks the trend of crossover SUVs that are “softer” and more rounded. This design for the Lexus LX 570 is appropriate, as it remains a formidable off-road machine. The spindle grille adds athleticism and elegance to the LX’s front, as do its distinctive LED daytime running lights and high-intensity-discharge headlights. The rear bumper is now brightened with a stainless-steel accent. Large running boards add visual appeal and, more pragmatically, they help passengers climb in.

EASY ACCESS SYSTEM
By automatically retracting the steering wheel and driver’s seat upon entry, the LX 570’s Easy Access System makes it easier to climb in and out of the driver’s seat without first forcing a series of awkward body contortions.

CRAWL CONTROL
For those daring enough to take an $80,000 SUV off-road, the LX 570’s Crawl Control mode brings an added measure of reassurance. Controlling the throttle and brakes, Crawl Control can inch the LX down steep slopes at a snail’s pace, freeing the driver to fully concentrate on the job of navigation and obstacle avoidance. Think of it as cruise control for Moab.

Every LX has permanent 4-wheel drive, quad-zone climate control, a power moonroof, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a leather interior with mahogany wood trim and a 14-way driver’s seat. On the tech and entertainment side, there are a navigation system with backup camera, Lexus’ Enform infotainment system and a 9-speaker AM/FM/CD player with HD Radio, Bluetooth streaming audio, and USB and iPod inputs. Safety features include 10 airbags, stability control, Emergency Assistance Button, and a system that, in the event of a severe accident, notifies an agent who will attempt to contact the driver and can send help if needed.

Already well equipped in standard form, most extras available in the 2014 Lexus LX 570 are bundled into packages. Such options include ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated 2nd-row seats and a center-mounted cool box for food and beverages. Tech features include radar-based cruise control and pre-collision system, a dual-screen DVD rear-seat entertainment system, surround camera system and – for audio enthusiasts – a superb Mark Levinson audio system with 19 (yes, nineteen) speakers.

The 2014 Lexus LX 570 is powered by a refined 5.7-liter V8 that makes 383 horsepower and a stout 403 lb-ft of torque, which help this SUV tow up to 7,000 pounds. The LX has a full-time 4-wheel-drive system with a Torsen limited-slip differential – with manual locking – and 2-speed transfer case. The transmission is a 6-speed automatic.

5.7-liter V8
383 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
403 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 12/17 mpg