March 9th 2016
Lexus raised the curtains to the 2016 LX 570 last year in August at the Pebble Beach and officially launched it in the UAE through its exclusive distributor, Al-Futtaim Motors, on October 21, 2015.
Al-Futtaim Motors offers the 2016 Lexus LX 570 in three different packages: base version Premier, mid-level Prestige and the range topping Platinum. I got a chance to test drive the Platinum version, and below are my findings.
Walk Around
Inspecting the exterior from all angles, I can undoubtedly conclude that the Lexus LX 570 2016 boasts a highly athletic and sophisticated design. The front fascia comprises of a new dominating spindle grille, along with 3 eye LED headlamps that give a rather fierce look.
The wheels are 21-inch alloys, while 18-inch and 20-inch are also available. The rear is also pretty bold and is designed aggressively. Length wise, the LX 570 is a huge SUV, but that only means it offers a spacious interior.
Cockpit Impression
The interior is not just spacious but also delightfully designed rendering ultra comfort. The rear seating compartment offers ample leg room and includes an entertainment system making sure that the passengers do not get bored during long excursions.
The seats are Semi-Aniline leather and 10 way powered with heating and ventilation function. The cargo space measures 41 cu. ft after split-folding the third row seats, which is pretty huge and can store almost any kind of luggage.
The driving compartment is ergonomically designed and features a unique combination of wood and leather on the steering wheel, front dash and centre armrest giving the SUV a premium feel. On the centre, there is a 12.3-inch Electro Multi-Vision display which I will discuss while driving the LX 570.
Engine Specifications of the 2016 Lexus LX 570
The 2016 Lexus LX 570 is powered by a mighty 5.7 litre V8 engine featuring Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission system. The potent gasoline engine produces 362 horsepower and 403 lb.-ft of torque.
Driving Dynamics
The LX 570 can be conveniently started by the push button system. Like most of the modern SUVs, the LX570 also renders multiple drive modes including Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco. As I was driving it on the highway, it was set on ‘Comfort’ mode and thus the performance was very smooth and relaxing. The Sport and Sport+ modes alter the suspension and steering setting consequently improving the handling for a more engaging driving experience, whereas the Eco mode is perfect to save up on fuel. Having driven a lot of SUVs in the past, I could say that the Lexus LX 570’s performance does not get harsh or unpleasant when you try to hit top speeds. It consumed around 18.8L over a distance of 100 kilometres during our test drive.
Technological Overview
You would find all the latest and advanced technological equipment in the 2016 Lexus LX 570 that makes the driving fun and easy. The front dash is equipped with a huge 12.3-inch Electro Multi-vision display along with Bluetooth hands-free calling system and a Mark Levinson Reference Surround System. The rear seats get an 11.6-inch display with HDMI jack and a wireless remote. A wireless smartphone charging facility is available too.
Safety
Safety is ensured through an array of high end features such as (Front, Knee, Side & Curtain) Airbags, A-TRC (Active Traction Control System), VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), Multi-terrain ABS ( Anti-lock Brake System) with EBD ( Electronic Brake Force Distribution), Brake Assist System, Blind Spot Monitor with RCTA, Pre-Crash System, Dynamic Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and more.
Dislike
The only negative thing I could say about the Lexus LX 570 2016 is its expensive starting price of AED 385,000 (Platinum Package starts at AED 450,000), which is comparatively higher than most of the rivals such as 2016 Land Cruiser and Range Rover.
Verdict
I agree that the 2016 Lexus LX 570 is expensive, but it is far more luxurious and advanced than its competitors. More importantly, it does not lack in terms of performance and reliability, and is definitely one of the best SUVs I have driven so far.