How good is the Lexus LX 570?
The LX 570 is a luxurious, capable SUV with a proven V8 engine and strong off-road talent, making it excellent for reliability-minded buyers. It remains comfortable and spacious, but it trails newer rivals in efficiency, technology, and driving dynamics due to its age.
Overview and positioning
The LX 570 isn’t the newest flagship SUV, but it remains a heavyweight contender in the used-luxury market. Built on the Toyota Land Cruiser platform, it emphasizes comfort, quiet highway cruising, and rugged capability over the latest gadgetry.
Performance and capability
Key powertrain specs and capability features define how the LX 570 behaves on road and trail. It uses a big V8 under the hood and offers substantial towing and a confident four-wheel-drive setup, but it is a heavy vehicle that doesn’t chase sportiness.
- 5.7-liter V8 engine producing around 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Full-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case for low-range off-road use
- Approximate towing capacity around 7,000 pounds
- Strong low-end acceleration for a large SUV and smooth highway ride
Overall, the LX 570 delivers robust on-road performance and durable off-road ability, with a ride that feels plush in daily use but can be lumbering in tight urban conditions.
Inside and comfort
Moving to the interior, the LX 570 is known for its upmarket materials, spacious seating, and quiet cabin. However, some of its tech and interfaces feel dated next to current luxury rivals.
- Premium materials and fit, with a handsome, traditional luxury interior
- Three rows of seating with the option for captain’s chairs in the second row
- Generous passenger space and a user-friendly rear-seat environment
- Acoustic insulation and ride quietness that suits long highway trips
- Ample cargo space when the third row isn’t in use; third-row can limit space when in use
In summary, the cabin is comfortable and refined for its era, but it lacks some of the digital conveniences and larger infotainment displays now common in newer rivals.
Technology, safety, and features
The LX 570 offers luxury-brand features but can feel behind the curve on tech. Later models added more driver-assistance features, but the market’s newer SUVs offer more modern interfaces and smartphone integration.
Safety and driver aids
Active safety systems are present but not as expansive as in newer vehicles. Buyers should verify available features on a given model year and consider a pre-owned vehicle with updated safety packages.
- Standard and optional safety features improve across model years, with availability of pre-collision systems and adaptive cruise control in later years
- Infotainment tends toward older touchscreen interfaces and limited smartphone integration in older units
- Premium audio options, such as Mark Levinson systems, are available in higher trims
For tech lovers, the LX 570 still provides luxury sound and navigation, but buyers should temper expectations about the latest software and app compatibility.
Reliability and ownership costs
Reliability is a hallmark of Toyota-based platforms, and the LX 570 inherits that reputation. However, the model's age means maintenance and repair costs can add up, especially for the V8 and air-suspension-related components.
- Impressive long-term reliability when well maintained
- Higher maintenance and parts costs compared with mainstream SUVs
- Potential issues with air suspension components and older electrical systems as mileage increases
- Strong resale value in the used market due to brand prestige and durability
Owners should budget for routine wear items, occasional electrical fixes, and potential suspension maintenance on higher-mileage examples.
Fuel economy and emissions
Fuel economy is not the LX 570’s strong suit. With a big V8 and heavy curb weight, real-world efficiency typically lags more modern hybrids or smaller-engined luxury SUVs.
- Estimated fuel economy around 13 mpg city / 17-18 mpg highway for 4WD models
- Combined figures generally in the mid-teens, depending on wheel size and load
- Fuel costs are a consideration for daily driving and long trips
For buyers commuting in dense urban areas or seeking maximum efficiency, the LX 570 is unlikely to shine compared with newer powertrains.
Who should consider the LX 570?
Given its strengths and drawbacks, the LX 570 suits different buyer profiles. If you value space, luxury, proven reliability, and true off-road capability, and you’re shopping in the used market, the LX 570 is worth a look. If you want cutting-edge comfort tech, best-in-class efficiency, or the latest-assist features, you may prefer a more modern SUV.
Additionally, note that the LX 570 has largely been succeeded by the LX 600 in Lexus’s current lineup, which brings updated powertrains and tech, though the LX 570 remains in circulation as a used vehicle for now.
What to check when buying a used LX 570
If you’re shopping used, use a structured checklist to avoid common post-purchase problems. Here is a practical guide to what to inspect:
- Updated maintenance history for the V8 and transmission; verify service records for timing components and fluids
- Inspection of the air suspension or alternative ride-height system for leaks and sagging
- Brake wear, steering components, and wheel bearings given the vehicle’s weight and mileage
- Body and frame inspection for rust and previous collision damage
- Electrical system checks for warning lights, sensors, and infotainment issues
In short, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential to ensure the LX 570 you’re considering continues to deliver its famed reliability without surprise repairs.
Summary
The Lexus LX 570 blends luxury, space, and robust reliability with strong V8 performance and off-road credentials. It remains a highly capable and comfortable choice in the used SUV market, especially for families or buyers who value durability more than the latest tech or fuel efficiency. If you want the newest technology, better efficiency, and more advanced safety features, you’ll likely prefer Lexus’s newer LX models or rivals. The LX 570 stands out most when you place priority on comfort, size, and a proven, long-term ownership experience.
Final takeaway
For buyers who understand its age but prize its established pedigree, the LX 570 remains a strong, if aging, luxury SUV that can still deliver impressive luxury, space, and capability decades after its debut.
How long will an LX 570 last?
With proper care, this fantastic ride can go a long way. Some folks say it can reach up to 300,000 miles!
What year LX 570 to avoid?
Q: Which Lexus LX years should I avoid? There are several years to avoid. We recommend staying away from the 2000, 2003, 2005, 2017, and 2019 selections.
What are common problems with the LX 570?
Look for a malfunctioning. Or blank display. Screen some areas of the screen may appear pixelated or distorted.
How reliable is the Lexus LX 570?
The Lexus LX570 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $832 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. While repairs are more common, these issues are less likely to be severe than with other cars.
