1998-2007 Lexus LX 470: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The full-size sport-utility vehicle from Toyota's luxury division got a name change for 1998, along with its new engine. Switching from 6-cylinder power to a new 4.7-liter V8, also destined for Toyota's T100 pickup, the SUV was transformed from the LX 450 to the new LX 470. As before, it served as an upscale edition of Toyota's Land Cruiser. Styling was new, and the V8 engine was a "first." Each LX 470 had an independent front suspension and permanently engaged 4-wheel drive. No factory options were offered, apart from a power moonroof. Unlike Toyota's Land Cruiser, the LX 470 was equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension. That system included computer-controlled shock absorbers that selected from 16 damping levels to match the road surface. A switch permitted manual selection of firm, normal, or soft mode. Automatic Height Control also was exclusive to the Lexus edition, allowing the driver to set ride clearance to high, normal, or low level. That system switched to normal if vehicle speed exceeded 20 mph in high mode. Standard equipment included exterior running boards, leather-and-wood interior trim, rear air conditioning, and an in-dash CD changer. Rivals included the Acura SLX, GMC Yukon/Denali, Land Rover Range Rover, and Lincoln Navigator.