1998-2007 Lexus LX 470: Road Test

The V8 engine is muscular enough to deliver brisk acceleration, helped by prompt, smooth shifts from the automatic transmission--whether up or down. An LX 470 yielded 15.4 mpg with plenty of highway driving, while an '03 model averaged just 11.8 mpg in city driving. Premium fuel is recommended. Wind and road noise in a Land Cruiser can be noticeable, but the LX 470 is quieter, in keeping with its luxury mission. Luxury-grade sound deadening and a silken engine, in fact, help make the LX 470 quieter than many passenger sedans. Ride comfort and control are good, both on-road and off. Though high-built, the LX 470 wagon does not feel ponderous around town. It also handles confidently except in fast corners, where marked (though predictable) body lean is the rule, coupled with a slight tipsy sensation. Head room and rear leg room are good, in contrast to prior models. There's also enough cabin width for three grownups in the middle bench seat. The third-row seat is cramped and inaccessible for all but a preteen couple. Middle-row entry/exit isn't easy either, thanks to a tall step-up and narrow door bottoms. On the other hand, that high stance gives a commanding view of the road, though headrests impair vision out back. The LX 470's body lowers automatically by a few inches when the ignition is switched off, which can ease entry/exit by a bit. The user-friendly dashboard has simple new rotary climate controls, though a few other switches aren't so easy to see. Space behind the third-row seat is sufficient for grocery bags but not much more. That seat folds or removes fairly easily for generous maximum cargo room. The drop-down tailgate means there's a long stretch to your cargo, but a plastic filler panel between the gate and the load floor makes sliding heavy items a little easier.

Value for the Money
Some less-costly SUVs offer more space, but the LX 470 is highly capable off-road and as comfortable as any competitor on-road. If this Lexus falls within the capacity of your pocketbook, why not take a spin?