2003 Lexus LX 470: Road Test
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2003 Lexus LX 470 ▼
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- MSRP: $63,625
- Invoice: $55,353
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Our road test for the 2003 Lexus LX 470 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Lexus LX 470 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Lexus LX 470, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Lexus LX 470 help you decide if a 2003 Lexus LX 470 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.4 |
One of the quicker big SUVs, thanks to smooth, brawny V8 and responsive automatic transmission. A test 4-speed Land Cruiser clocked about 9 sec. 0-60 mph. We haven't yet tested the '03s, but they may do slightly better with their new 5-speed automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 1.9 |
Test LX 470 averaged just 11.8 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving--and Lexus recommends premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.4 |
Slightly softer on-road than a Land Cruiser, but still comfortably firm on previous 16-inch tires. New 18-inchers may cushion ride even more. Electronically variable suspension has little affect on ride, but the height adjustment function has its uses.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.3 |
Trucklike driving feel despite near carlike steering, handling, and refinement. Body lean evident but not alarming in hard, tight turns; grip always good with the full-time 4WD. We haven't experienced the antiskid system, but know it works well in Lexus cars. Kudos to Lexus for newly standard torso and curtain side airbags, a "passive safety" plus.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 5.2 |
Noise levels noticeably lower than in most competitors. Engine especially quiet, leaving wind rush and some tire thrum audible at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5 |
Rather busy dashboard--even more so with new rear audio and optional DVD entertainment--but not hard to learn. We haven't tried the new Night View system.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 7.4 |
Spacious interior exploits big-rig exterior size. Drivers sit high, have generally clear sightlines. Seats are luxury-car wide and cushy. Rather high step-in partly offset by standard running boards and height-adjustable suspension.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.4 |
Fine room and comfort on reclining 2nd-row seat, but standard 3rd-row bench is sized only for two pre-teens and is a chore to access. Narrow floor passages impede entry/exit even to the 2nd row.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.9 |
Third-row seat is split to fold up laterally; 2nd-row seat also split, but double-folds forward. Volume just OK with all seats in use, but cavernous with one or both rear seats lowered.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.4 |
LX 470 and Land Cruiser may be the nicest truck-style SUVs around. The Lexus boasts a longer warranty, the promise of better customer service, and extra functional and luxury features. Standard side airbags and other changes make the '03 the best LX yet.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 62 | 49.3 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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