2000 Lexus LX 470: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A standard antiskid system heads a short list of year-2000 changes to this upscale version of the Toyota Land Cruiser. The LX 470 stands apart with Lexus styling cues, a higher price, and more standard equipment, but both of these big sport-utility vehicles come with V8 power, traction control, antilock brakes, and permanent 4-wheel drive with low-range gearing and locking center differential.

Among LX features not shared with the Land Cruiser are a standard Adaptive Variable Suspension--computer-controlled shock absorbers that automatically vary among 16 damping levels to match surface conditions within driver-selected firm, normal, and soft modes. Another exclusive is Automatic Height Control with three driver-selectable elevations. Other LX standards include exterior running boards that are newly illuminated for 2000, plus leather-and-wood interior trim, rear air conditioning, and in-dash CD changer. A power sunroof joins the standard-equipment list (it cost extra before), as does a version of Lexus's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) antiskid system incorporating Lexus's new Brake Assist feature, which automatically supplies full hydraulic power in response to quick, strong brake-pedal movement. A leather-and-wood steering wheel is also a new option. Performance and accommodations are similar to those of the Land Cruiser.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buy is the Ford Expedition. We love the size, comfort, and power of this big SUV. Hot on its heels are the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. We were very impressed with these vehicles initially, and when we have more time to fully evaluate them we expect them to be Best Buys as well.

For a few more bucks you can get the highly recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.