Despite pressure on the automobile industry to produce more – and better – fuel-stingy options for the mass market, there remains a place for luxury SUVs that are neither size conscious nor gas conserving. The 570 stands firmly in that crowd, with understated elegance on the outside and luxury and comfort to rival the big hitters like the Escalade on the inside.
Key Features
As you’d expect from Lexus, standards are generous – 20” wheels, power third row folding seat, navigation and backup camera, full-time four-wheel drive, and active height control are just a few of the “base” amenities. Of course those with even more specifically discriminating tastes can add a Mark Levinson Reference audio system with a mind-blowing 19 speakers, heated rear seats or Intuitive Parking Assist.
Changes for 2011
One of the most significant alterations in this model year involves incidents with other brands and accidental acceleration upon driver attempts to hit the brakes. The LX 570 therefore come equipped standard with Smart Stop Technology. What this means is that if the driver hits both pedals, power to the engine is cut.
What We Like
This substantial SUV can carry eight passengers. The Crawl Control feature allows off-road exploring via a setting that triggers the vehicle to carefully navigate rougher terrain without any fiddling with the brake or throttle. The legroom may be unrivaled in the class.
What Concerns Us
The city fuel economy is pretty dismal, and just on aesthetics alone it would be difficult to claim status as a tree-hugger if seen on a roustabout around town in the LX 570. If what others think of your choices matter to you, this might be too conspicuous a vehicle.
Available Models
The 570 sports a 5.7L V8 6-speed automatic with 403 lb.-ft. of torque, 383 HP, and fuel economy of 12/18 mpg. The tow rating is impressive at 8500 lbs.
Major Recalls
In April of 2011 Toyota issued a recall on 2008-2011 LX 570s due to the potential for the gas pedal to get stuck under the floor mat. This could potentially cause a serious safety issue, causing the vehicle to accelerate out of control and making braking difficult. The company notified owners and created a remedy that they administer at no cost.
Common Issues
Like most Lexus vehicles, the LX570 has a high rating of consumer satisfaction. There are no registered complaints of issues for this model.
