The newest version of one of the last body-on-frame SUVs on the market gets a redesigned front end characterized by what is unquestionably the biggest rendition of Lexus’ trademarked spindle grille ever seen on a production vehicle. Other noteworthy visual updates include new headlights that give the LX a more modern look and boomerang-shaped chrome trim with small round fog lights on either side of the lower front bumper.
LX’s rear fascia is fitted with LED tail lamps accented by thin strips of chrome trim, a redrawn hatch and a revised bumper. Clearly, the updates go a step beyond the average mid-cycle update, and Lexus says that only the door panels carry over from the outgoing model.
The dashboard has been redrawn, too. Notably, a curved piece of wood trim emphasizes the cockpit’s width while giving the center console a more streamlined look, and the infotainment system is displayed on a much bigger 12.3-inch screen. The wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel, the shift knob, and the instrument cluster are also new for 2016.
The LX570 carries on with a time-tested 5.7-liter V8 engine that makes 383 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 403 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm. However, the outgoing model’s six-speed automatic transmission has been replaced by a new eight-speed unit that promises to noticeably improve gas mileage. Full-time four-wheel drive comes standard, and the LX’s rugged body-on-frame construction allows it to effortlessly tow up to 7,000 pounds.
Drive Mode Select — a technology already found on smaller Lexus models — allows the driver to modify the response of both the suspension and the engine by choosing from four driving modes called Eco, Comfort, Sport S, and Sport S+, respectively. Another tech upgrade for the latest model year is the addition of a panoramic rearview camera that makes maneuvering the 6,000-pound behemoth a breeze.
The LX ships with a blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert, and the list of optional driving aids includes a heads-up display, dynamic radar cruise control and Lexus’ Intuitive Park Assist technology.
The 2016 Lexus LX570 will land in showrooms nationwide before the end of the year. Pricing information will be published in the weeks leading up to its on-sale date.
On the Lexus stand in Pebble Beach, the 2016 LX is sharing the spotlight with the 2016 GS. The sedan has been updated with a new look that brings it close to Lexus’ design language and an entry-level model dubbed 200t that’s powered by a 241-horsepower turbo four.
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