After the luxury SUV segment was sensationalized by the Americans, it wasn't long before big, comfy and well-equipped SUV's started popping up from other manufacturers all over the world. Japan's strongest contender against the likes of the Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade and Land Rover range was arguably Lexus's LX series.
Built from the same structure as the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX450 originally hit the North American market in 1996 with a big straight-six engine, luxurious interior and plenty of off-road ability. Not long after, the North American propensity for V8 engines and horsepower saw the model updated to include a 4.7 liter engine and 'LX470' name-plaque not long after.
The engine used 4 cams to work 32 total valves, and output ranged between 230 and 268 horsepower depending on the year in question. A four-speed or five-speed automatic transmission came as standard, again depending on the year.
The LX used a transfer-case based four wheel drive system which included a low-range gear setting. Combined with generous ground clearance and tough construction, LX was a luxury hauler that could tackle trails and off-road conditions as needed.
In addition to its various mechanical tweaks, some visual updates were carried out throughout the LX's life- especially towards the end of this generation. Notable among them were a new grille, wheels and taillamps. As a model that was improved and refreshed throughout its life, buying as recent a model as possible is advised.
In the shopping process, expect to find features like a premium Mark Levinson audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a backup camera, rear-seat DVD entertainment console, automatic climate control, and even night vision.
LX owners in this generation rave about the machine's space, comfort and build quality. Fuel mileage is commonly the least appreciated trait, since the LX's heavy weight, V8 engine and largely flat-faced body can add up to some hefty fuel bills. Some owners also report an awkward or un-stable feeling to the LX's highway drive.
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| 2007 Lexus LX470 |
Built from the same structure as the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX450 originally hit the North American market in 1996 with a big straight-six engine, luxurious interior and plenty of off-road ability. Not long after, the North American propensity for V8 engines and horsepower saw the model updated to include a 4.7 liter engine and 'LX470' name-plaque not long after.
The engine used 4 cams to work 32 total valves, and output ranged between 230 and 268 horsepower depending on the year in question. A four-speed or five-speed automatic transmission came as standard, again depending on the year.
The LX used a transfer-case based four wheel drive system which included a low-range gear setting. Combined with generous ground clearance and tough construction, LX was a luxury hauler that could tackle trails and off-road conditions as needed.
In addition to its various mechanical tweaks, some visual updates were carried out throughout the LX's life- especially towards the end of this generation. Notable among them were a new grille, wheels and taillamps. As a model that was improved and refreshed throughout its life, buying as recent a model as possible is advised.
In the shopping process, expect to find features like a premium Mark Levinson audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a backup camera, rear-seat DVD entertainment console, automatic climate control, and even night vision.
LX owners in this generation rave about the machine's space, comfort and build quality. Fuel mileage is commonly the least appreciated trait, since the LX's heavy weight, V8 engine and largely flat-faced body can add up to some hefty fuel bills. Some owners also report an awkward or un-stable feeling to the LX's highway drive.
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| 2007 Lexus LX470 |