Review: 2008 Lexus LX 570

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Under the Hood

Power for the 5,995-lb. 2008 Lexus LX 570 comes from the same engine that’s found in the redesigned Toyota Tundra pickup truck. It’s a 5.7-liter, 32-valve V-8 with variable-valve timing that boasts 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 403 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Premium fuel is recommended, a gallon of which the EPA estimates will cover 12 miles in the city and 18 on the highway. Directing output to the ground is a six-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode and a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a true low range and a Torsen limited slip center differential. With this comes a Crawl Control feature that keeps the LX moving at extremely slow speeds – helpful for drivers navigating technical off-road terrain. The suspension consists of double wishbones up front and a four-link trailing-arm setup with a solid axle on the rear, while steering is the work of an rpm-sensitive hydraulic rack-and-pinion unit. Standard wheels measure 20 inches and roll on 285/50R20 all-season tires.

The LX 570 also features an Active Height Control (AHC) system which assists entry and exit by dropping the LX by about two inches; when low range is engaged, the system raises the vehicle by three inches to improve off-road ability. An Adaptive Variable Suspension System (AVS) includes different settings that allow the driver to dial-in the desired ride type: 1) the softest setting; 2) the system selects the appropriate suspension setup; 3 and 4) adjusts the suspension to compensate for heavy loads, higher speeds, or driving on rough roads.

In an effort to keep occupants safe, the big-daddy Lexus utilizes ventilated antilock disc brakes coupled with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution technology, stability control, and a body structure composed of high-strength steel. The LX 570 also features side airbags for the first two rows, front knee airbags, side-curtain airbags spanning all three rows, front active head restraints, and a tire-pressure monitor. To round things out, Lexus has outfitted the LX with systems including Advance TRAC and hill-start assist to aid with traction when necessary.