2021 Lexus LX 570

The 2021 Lexus LX 570 continues as a full-size luxury SUV based on the tough Toyota Land Cruiser. This means that it has off-road abilities to match a Range Rover, even though it’s doubtful that owners of either vehicle are often tempted to take their expensive rides through the Sonoran Desert or the jungles of Belize. But with the LX, there’s a better chance of making it back home. Like every other Lexus and Toyota models, the LX has a staunch reputation for reliability. No matter how harsh the conditions may be outside, all is calm and leather-lined inside the Lexus LX 570, which is sold as a 2-row/5-seater or a 3-row/8-seater.

Despite its rugged body-on-frame construction, the 2021 Lexus LX 570 drives like a luxury vehicle. It takes corners with confidence, just like it handles steep and muddy trails. In everyday duties, this large Lexus SUV is comfortable and capable. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts with a pleasant silkiness, and only a hint of road noise (from the large wheel/tire packages), taints the otherwise sublime driving experience.

Despite the luxury trappings, the Lexus LX 570 is a true SUV. With multiple all-wheel-drive (AWD) settings, a locking center differential, a locking rear differential, and low-range gearing, this large Lexus SUV can tackle tough off-road challenges that would halt the progress of almost all car-based crossover SUVs. The towing capacity is 7,000 pounds. On the downside, the Lexus LX 570, with a full-time 4wd, gets poor fuel economy. It’s rated by the EPA at 12 mpg in the city/16 mpg on the highway. A hybrid version of the big LX would be most welcome.

This standard system allows the driver to choose from five off-road settings (Rock, Rock, and Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, Mud, and Sand) that calibrate the LX 570’s AWD setup according to the conditions. Think of it as low-speed cruise control for off-roading. Using automatic throttle and brake adjustments, the LX will make a slow and steady climb up steep boulder-strewn paths. Active Height Control uses the air suspension to raise the LX about three inches if extra clearance is necessary.

Fine leather and attractive wood trim adorn an LX cabin that’s a little dated but still put together in an exemplary fashion. The LX 570’s dashboard is dominated by a huge 12.3-inch screen that can be split into three separate sections to show different functions, like navigation, audio, and the quad-zone automatic climate control. The 2nd-row bench in both models is power-adjustable in the fore/aft directions. An optional Rear Seat Entertainment System brings a pair of 11.6-inch screens, plus 2nd-row USB ports and auxiliary controls for the air conditioning and audio. However, those screens make folding the 3rd-row seats tricky (they fold up to the sides). The 5-seat Lexus LX 570 offers 53.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seat. The 8-seater has only 16.3 cu ft behind its 3rd row, but that grows to 41.6 cu ft with that rearmost seat folded.

The 2021 Lexus LX 570 isn’t as long as a Chevy Suburban or a Ford Expedition, but this SUV still takes up plenty of space in the average garage. However you feel about the Lexus spindle grille, it’s grafted onto a tall and imposing 2-box design. But whatever aesthetic shortcomings the Lexus LX may or may not have, the overall design makes practical sense, from outward vision to the 2-piece tailgate. Speaking of which, the top part is power-operated. For 2021, the optional Sport Package includes an updated grille, a revised front bumper, a lower rear valance panel, and forged 21-inch alloy wheels. It’s available only in Eminent White Pearl, Black Onyx, or Atomic Silver. The 2021 Lexus LX 570, available in Black Onyx or White Pearl, is distinguished by a black chrome grille, smoked headlights, and black 21-inch wheels.