The Lexus LX 570 stands as one of the most imposing luxury land yachts ever built. Operating as the ultra-luxurious sibling to the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series (URJ200), the third-generation LX (2008–2021) mastered the rare art of combining executive opulence with bulletproof off-road hardware.
Exterior Design: Command and Presence
The LX 570’s styling strikes a balance between rugged utility and unapologetic luxury.
- The Spindle Grille: The later-facelifted models (2016–2021) received Lexus’ massive, full-frame spindle grille flanked by sharp, triple-beam L-shaped LED headlights. It is an unmistakable front fascia built to clear out the fast lane.
- Side Profile & Proportions: Massive proportions, squared-off wheel arches, high-riding stance, and 20- or 21-inch split-spoke alloy wheels give it an athletic posture. Chrome accents frame the windows, while broad side steps emphasize its scale.
- Rear Architecture: The rear features distinctive horizontal LED tail lamps connected by a bold chrome bar and a functional split tailgate—the top half operates electronically, while the bottom half drops manually to act as a seating platform for outdoor events.
Interior Luxury Features: Old-School Craftsmanship
Inside, the LX 570 sacrifices trendy digital gimmicks for tangible, heavy-duty luxury. It was built to feel solid for decades.
- Craftsmanship & Materials: The cabin is wrapped in ultra-soft semi-aniline leather, accented by Shimamoku hand-finished wood trim—a meticulous process involving alternating layers of dark and light wood veneers.
- Acoustic Insulation: Thick acoustic glass, heavy sound-dampening materials, and tailored door seals isolate occupants from road, wind, and engine noise.
Cabin Comfort & Tech:
- Cool Box: A refrigerated center console box capable of cooling beverages.
- Climate Concierge: A four-zone automatic climate control system that coordinates the heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, and cabin temperature based on individual zone sensors.
- Infotainment & Audio: Features a 12.3-inch display managed via Lexus’ Remote Touch interface, paired with a 19-speaker, 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound System. Rear-seat passengers enjoy dual 11.6-inch entertainment screens.
Seating: Motorized front-row seats with power-sliding second row and power-folding third-row seats that swing out to the sides.
Drivetrain & Performance Figures
Beneath the leather and wood lies heavy-duty truck architecture designed to conquer extreme terrains.
| Specification | Details |
| Engine | 5.7L (5,663 cc) Naturally Aspirated V8 (3UR-FE) |
| Power Output | 383 hp @ 5,600 RPM (362–383 hp depending on regional tuning) |
| Torque | 543 Nm (403 lb-ft) @ 3,600 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed auto (2008–2015) / 8-speed Aisin auto (2016–2021) |
| Drivetrain | Full-Time 4WD with Torsen® Limited-Slip Center Differential |
| 0–100 km/h | ~7.3 to 7.7 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 3,175 kg (7,000 lbs) |
| Suspension | Active Height Control (AHC) & Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) |
Off-Road Systems:
- AHC (Active Height Control): A hydraulic system that adjusts the vehicle height (raising it for off-road clearance or lowering it for high-speed highway cruising and easy passenger entry/exit).
- Crawl Control with Turn Assist: Acts as an off-road cruise control in steep or loose terrain, while Turn Assist brakes the inside rear wheel to tighten the turning radius on narrow trails.
- Multi-Terrain Select (MTS): Tailors wheel spin, throttle response, and ABS to surfaces like mud, sand, loose rock, or mogul fields.
Why the 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE) Engine Was Loved
The 3UR-FE 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 holds legendary status among automotive enthusiasts, fleet operators, and long-distance overlanders.
- Unstressed Engine Dynamics: The 3UR-FE delivers its torque low in the rev range without relying on turbochargers. With low compression and low thermal stress, it runs reliably for hundreds of thousands of kilometers under harsh climate conditions without overheating.
- Mechanical Simplicity: Lacking complex twin-turbo plumbing, high-pressure direct-injection pump failures, or delicate intercoolers, it performs predictably on variable-quality fuel in remote areas.
- Linear Power & Distinct Exhaust Note: Throttle delivery is completely linear—press the pedal, and power is delivered immediately without turbo lag. The low-frequency V8 rumble gives the LX 570 a commanding, relaxed character.
- Resale Value: Due to its reputation for reaching 500,000+ km with basic maintenance, late-model LX 570s retain strong value.
The Evolution: What Changed with the Lexus LX 600?
Introduced on the GA-F (TNGA) global truck platform (shared with the LC300), the Lexus LX 600 modernized the flagship SUV while shifting away from classic V8 architecture.
1. Powertrain Shift (V8 to Twin-Turbo V6)
- LX 570: 5.7L Naturally Aspirated V8 (383 hp / 543 Nm).
- LX 600: 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 (
V35A-FTS) pushing 409 hp and 650 Nm of torque. It shifts via a 10-speed direct-shift automatic instead of the old 8-speed, delivering quicker off-the-line acceleration and improved fuel economy.
2. Weight Reduction & Platform Architecture
- The LX 600 sits on the stiffer TNGA-F frame. By utilizing aluminum doors, hood, and roof panels, Lexus shed roughly 200 kg (440 lbs) compared to the heavy LX 570. This significantly improves dynamic handling, braking, and body control.
3. Modernized Interior & Dual-Screen Layout
- The single 12.3-inch screen and mouse-like trackpad of the LX 570 were replaced with a dual-screen setup: a upper 12.3-inch touchscreen for navigation and audio, and a lower 7-inch screen dedicated to climate controls and drive modes.
- It also adds modern tech like Fingerprint Authentication Start, updated Lexus Interface with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and an optional 4-seater VIP Ultra-Executive trim with rear reclining ottoman seats.
4. Suspension & Electric Power Steering
- While the LX 570 used traditional hydraulic power steering (stiff at low speeds), the LX 600 transitions to Electronic Power Steering (EPS), making urban maneuvering easier. The AHC system was also updated to adjust height faster across drive modes.
The Lexus LX 570 represents the peak of naturally aspirated, heavy-duty luxury engineering. While the LX 600 is faster, more fuel-efficient, and packed with current technology, the LX 570 remains highly sought-after by purists who prioritize the durability and effortless character of a 5.7L V8 powertrain.
Compiled By Sipitali Shitsukane
Automotive Enthusiast, Car Imports Consultant.