New for 2016

The 2016 Lexus LX 570 piles on the goods. New mechanical features include an eight-speed automatic transmission and parking assist, as well as a new 12.3-inch navigation screen and additional controls for rear passenger. Lexus has also updated LX 570's front end with the brand's "spindle grille," brining the LX 570 in line with its lineup. It's worth noting that the LX 570's body is also a little longer and wider, benefitting second-row legroom.

Forever Onward 

Take a quick scan of the full-size luxury segment and you'll no doubt notice a number of fine specimens. But while so many of these models are pleasing to look at, their delicate sensibilities get the better of them when push comes to shove, and their utility (or lack thereof) gives way to striking, if not superfluous, styling.

The 2016 Lexus LX 570 takes a different approach. With the LX 570, Lexus engineers held firm the belief that drivers should have their cake and eat it too, that a luxury full-size SUV should be both striking and capable. The only question the 2016 LX 570 asks is: Just how hungry are you?

Powertrains and Performance

We don’t often associate brute force with beauty, but one drive in the 2016 Lexus LX 570 and perhaps you will. That’s because the LX 570 is powered by beastly 5.7-liter V8 that creates a glorious 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. A new eight-speed automatic is standard, as is a full-time four-wheel drive system, complete with hill start assist, crawl control, and a driver-selectable multi-terrain system. But here’s the beautiful part: it can tow up to 7,000 pounds.

Alas, perhaps less beautiful is the LX 570’s fuel economy, which earns a modest 15 mpg combined (13 city, 18 highway,*) but that’s truly beside the point with this class of vehicle. And it doesn’t detract from the versatility and comforts the LX provides.

Features and Trims

At $88,880,** the 2016 Lexus LX 570 commands a princely sum. But with that sticker price comes a veritable treasure trove of high-end standard features and equipment.

Despite only being offered in a solitary trim, the LX 570 comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, full LED exterior lights (automatic and adaptive LED headlights, foglights, and taillights), a sunroof, a roof rack, a power liftgate, tow hitch, and keyless ignition/entry. There’s also a height-adjustable adaptive suspension that adds to the LX’s off-road capability.

Inside, the LX boasts four-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, wood trim, heated power front seats (10-way driver, eight-way passenger), driver memory functions, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Now that we’ve caught our breath, the LX 570 also features a rather convenient 60/40-split reclining and power-sliding second-row seat, a power-folding third-row seat, and a 120-volt power outlet located in the cargo bay.

Beyond that, the LX’s technology offerings are just as impressive (and exhaustive). Here you’ll find an advanced infotainment system which pipes through a new-for-2016 12.3-display, a rearview camera, a 360-degree surround-view parking camera system, a navigation system, voice controls, and Lexus’ Enform® suite of smartphone-based services. 

With such an extensive list of standard features, it’s hard to imagine additional options and packages, but there are. A Luxury package adds heated and ventilated front seats, a cooled storage bin between the front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, extended wood trim, upgraded leather upholstery, and a slim credit-card-like key fob.

Design

There’s nothing “soft” about the LX 570’s exterior. It forgoes the curves and rounded edges of crossover SUVS for a more bold and boxy design. And it works.

The LX’s look is very appropriate, and one that is sure to resonate with buyers searching for something that is both rugged and refined. Its boxy design also reflects its formidable off-road ability, something that is sure to please owners looking to do more than shuttle to and from the country club.

A dash of flair can be seen up front in the form of Lexus’ spindle grille, which lends a degree of elegance and athleticism to the vehicle’s overall design, while the rear bumper has been livened up with a stainless-steel accent. Large running boards add even more visual appear, while simultaneously helping passengers climb aboard.

Inside, the LX truly impresses, with room for up to eight passengers and enticing interior material quality. Occupants will enjoy an abundance of leg, shoulder, and head room regardless of where they’re sat. Four-zone climate control is standard and helps keep thing comfortable, while unique third-row seats stowaway to the side instead of forward creating a conveniently flat load door.

Safety

The 2016 Lexus LX 570 features a robust list of standard safety features, including antilock brakes, traction control, stability control with trailer sway control, active front headrests, front seat side airbags, front knee airbags, second-row side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

The new standard Safety System Plus adds a number of welcome features as well. These include pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, all-speed adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high-beam control to Lexus' pre-collision safety system. That system is especially impressive, and one drivers will surely appreciate, because it automatically tightens the front seatbelts and primes the braking system if a collision is deemed immminent. New for 2016 is the systems ability to intiate automatic braking if necessary. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also new and standard for 2016. 

Finally, the 2016 LX 570 also comes with Lexus’ Safety Connect emergency communications with automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, an emergency assist button, and enhanced roadside assistance.

Bottom Line

The 2016 Lexus LX 570 is a heavy-hitter among full-size luxury SUVs. Blessed with brute strength and sophisticated handling, it’s capable of getting the job done even when the going gets tough—all while lavishing occupants with its many premium comforts.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us at 3Birds Template.

*2016 EPA-estimated ratings. Actual mileage will vary.

** MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $950. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment.

Image: Lexus