2014 Lexus LX 570 Review – Powerful SUV Ready for Off-Road Action

This is one of the advertisement images Lexus uses to promote the LX 570. I must admit, I wouldn't feel comfortable taking a $90k SUV off-road.

I recently had the chance to test drive a 2014 Lexus LX 570, which came equipped with a 5.7-liter V-8 engine mated to a six-speed transmission. It boasts an EPA fuel efficiency rating of 12/17/14 mpg city/highway/combined. With a starting MSRP of $89,555, this fully off-road capable SUV combines a welded steel unibody with a full-size steel ladder frame (body-on-frame construction).

The rear space looks larger than it actually is.

Off-Road Performance

Unlike other unibody SUVs that offer an AWD system and give the impression of being rugged, the LX 570 is a completely different beast. It doesn't just rely on height and AWD—it’s equipped with a locking rear differential and Toyota’s innovative CRAWL control with turn assist. These features make it stand out in challenging terrains.

Here’s a rundown of its key off-road features:

• Torsen Limited-Slip Center Differential
• Independent Front Double-Wishbone Suspension with Adaptive Variable Suspension and Active Height Control System featuring Coil Springs
• Electronically Controlled Shock Absorbers and Stabilizer Bars (Front and Rear)
• Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Variable Gear Ratio Steering
• ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, CRAWL Control with Turn Assist, Active Traction Control with Multi-Terrain Select, Trailer Sway Control

The Torsen differential is particularly noteworthy because it functions similarly to the one used in the Ford SVT Raptor. Why is this important? Lexus explains:

The full-time four-wheel-drive system in the Lexus LX 570 employs a Torsen® limited-slip locking center differential that distributes power 40:60 under normal driving conditions. The rearward power bias enhances on-road agility. The Torsen differential automatically adjusts the power distribution as needed, without requiring any input from the driver. However, the driver can lock the center differential if they encounter particularly difficult off-road trails.

In addition, the LX 570 offers active height control. This feature allows the vehicle to be raised by 2 inches at low speeds, helping avoid obstacles while off-roading.

Last but not least, there’s the CRAWL control with turn assist. This is an excellent feature that uses a combination of gearing, brakes, and the engine to navigate challenging off-road conditions. Once activated, the driver selects a speed, and the vehicle handles everything else.

Design and Exterior

There’s no denying that the Lexus LX 570 is large—arguably the largest SUV Lexus produces (and the second most expensive). Despite its size, it manages to be both stylish and appealing.

While the exterior design was attractive, it’s often the small details that truly set a vehicle apart. One of the little features I appreciated about the LX was the lighting on the running boards. These lights come with a dimmer setting and remain on after parking, turning off after a set period. I found them useful one night when I parked in my garage and needed to retrieve something. I imagine they’d be handy in many situations.

The clamshell-style rear door hatch wasn't my favorite feature.

While I liked most aspects of the LX 570, I wasn’t a fan of the rear door hatch. The design includes a top hatch that opens upward and a smaller lower door that folds down. Some users might find this convenient, but personally, it was frustrating when trying to access items in the rear cargo area.

The interior of the LX 570 is exceptional, and the entertainment system rivals that of any family vehicle.

Luxurious Interior

One thing that always catches my eye with Lexus vehicles is the impeccable fit and finish, along with the quality of the leather. For those who haven’t experienced a luxury vehicle, the difference compared to an economical model is remarkable. The LX 570 is no exception—it’s stunning inside.

The rear DVD players in the LX 570 are a great addition and work exceptionally well for families.

In the rear, the twin DVD players were a fantastic feature for my family. We often use portable DVD players attached to the headrests, but the built-in quality of these players made a strong impression on me.

The rear cargo space of the LX 570 can be expanded by folding down the seats.

However, I wasn’t thrilled with the third-row seating. While the photos suggest ample space, I struggled to fit long items in the rear when the seats were folded up. Although they can fold forward, I didn’t notice much improvement in cargo room.

Driving Experience

This large SUV is surprisingly manageable. While it’s substantial, it’s relatively easy to park once you get used to its size. It also provides enough power to handle any situation you encounter. Typically, large vehicles are hard to maneuver and have a bumpy ride. None of these issues apply here. Driving it was a joy.

Despite its size, the LX 570 is surprisingly easy to drive and park.

Equipped with the 5.7-liter V-8 engine, I had sufficient power whenever I needed it. The ride quality was smooth both on dirt roads and highways. There wasn’t a driving scenario where this vehicle didn’t shine. True, it takes longer to park than a compact car, but it never felt overly cumbersome.

What do you think? Have you ever driven the LX 570?

XZL-RH Horizontal Rubber Silicone Injection Molding Machine

rubber bush, rubber mat injection machine, car parts molding machine

Ningbo Huacheng Rubber And Plastic Machinery Co., Ltd , https://www.hacen-machinery.com