2001 Lexus LX 470: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This is an upscale Toyota Land Cruiser with Lexus styling cues. It has more standard equipment than Land Cruiser, but the same V8, automatic transmission, traction/antiskid control, ABS, and all-wheel drive that includes low-range gearing. Exclusive to LX 470 is Adaptive Variable Suspension with driver-adjusted shock-absorber damping and selectable ride-height. Added for '01 are leather/wood steering wheel (optional before), 2nd-row child-seat anchors, and more tamper-resistant keys and locks. New Mark Levinson premium audio option can be ordered with navigation system; the setup also plays DVD movies on the system's dashboard screen--an industry first--but only with the transmission in Park. LX 470 performance and accommodations are similar to those of Land Cruiser.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs. The GM models get the nod in overall ratings, but shop and compare both before you buy.

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