Susan Frissell
Womenwithwheels.com

Redesigned for 2017, the LX 570 is fresh on the market; the definition of a “perfect” vehicle, this road cruiser is the dream of many a customer. Stretching out to global auto markets, Lexus plans to sell the LX 570 in China, Japan, Korea, France, Germany and Russia. Reaching a large class of people, the LX 570 luxury SUV offers multiple functions, operations, systems and better fuel economy. 2017-lexus-lx-570-side

Environmentally friendly, luxurious and new on all fronts, the 2017 LX 570 looks up-to-date, inside and out. You name it, the LX 570 offers it-to all markets. Seats are comfortable with cool and warm air, depending on the season, and music lovers will appreciate the 19 speaker entertainment system.

Competing with such vehicles as Range Rover, Land Rover, Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz GX also redesigned), Audi Q7 and Cadillac Escalade. This updated Lexus has a new interior, updated nav, Bluetooth, an electronically-controlled transmission, and full-time 4-wheel drive. A weather-resistant SUV, the LX 570 comes equipped with several air bags, front knee bags, carries seven passengers, and alerts the driver through pre-collision warning system, traction control, intuitive parking assist, satellite radio and glowing indicators and intensive LED light bults. For comfort, expect a heated steering wheel, USB connectivity, and small LCD lights at the rear of the front seats.lexuslx570int

Originally launched in 1995, the Lexus LX 570, a takeoff on the Toyota Land Cruiser, the second generation came in 2007, as a 2008 model. That model was then refreshed in 2012. With a full spare tire, the Lexus LX 570 gets a 20-inch alloy wheel and tire. These are massive and provide good road feel, yet a very comfortable, quiet ride.

No question driver and passengers alike will be protected in the best fashion possible. Safety is a key factor in the Lexus and airbags abound for all, as well as stronger seatbelts, fire alarm devices, GPS tracker, ABS and emergency braking.

Lexus’ 5.7-liter V8 engine is under the hood, matched with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Full-time 4×4 all-wheel-drive, as noted above, prepares for any kind of driving; with TORSEN limited-slip center differential. lexus-lx

Expect the standard price of the 2017 Lexus LX 570 to initially begin at $84,000, and go upward from there. A high cost for any luxury SUV generation. We don’t expect a vehicle of this caliber, however, to be towing many boats, or being the ‘rugged’ SUV many favor.

In fact, we found the braking in the 2017 LX 570 to be quirky and sensitive and took a while to get used to. Not something we wanted to have to deal with on a daily basis. The steering is heavy and do know, this is one big vehicle to drive around; and/or park.

Our LX 570 came equipped with the optional entertainment system with rear-seat DVD. This is a classy cabin and lends itself well to long roadtrips. The 12.3 inch touchscreen sits high and is easy to read. We didn’t try the park assist but expect it would probably be a helpful option; particularly for the small diminutive females we see driving this vehicle around Chicago. Adaptive cruise is also a favorite option, and handy during Chicago-area highway driving.

Who buys these over-size behemoth vehicles? Silly question, I suppose. Our area is loaded with Range Rover products; one looking just like the next, as do its drivers! It has always been a wonderment to this writer the popularity of the Navigator and Cadillac Escalade. Other than ‘cult’ cars, the appeal doesn’t translate over all markets.

We can’t help but wonder, when a consumer opts for a car of this sophistication, do they all know how to operate all these new options? They are formidable and take some time for non-technos to memorize and appreciate the value of their worth.

SPECS

MSRP: expected to be $84,000; up from there
Engine: V-8, 5.7-liter, 383 hp., 403 lb. ft. torque, 4-WD
Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
Wheelbase: 112.2 in.
Length: 199.4 in.
Width: 78 in.
Height: 75.2 in.
Fuel tank capacity: 24.6 gallons
EPA Fuel Economy: 13/18 mpg.
Curb Weight: 6,000 lbs.
Towing capacity: 7,000-lbs.
Wheels: 20×8.5 in., 5-spoke alloy
Tires: 28/50R20 mud/snow-rated
Warranty: 4 yr./50,000 miles